RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Makoyoh'Sokoi - The Wolf Trail Program Expansion Project - Supporting Indigenous Women to Celebrate Good Health

The 'Wolf Trail' program is expanding to help Indigenous women in parts of Alberta and Saskatchewan become healthier. It offers activities that combine exercise, learning about healthy eating, and understanding local healthcare, all while celebrating Indigenous culture and traditions. Participants will learn to better manage their own health, connect with others, and explore cultural elements that can boost their well-being. The program aims to improve their physical fitness, mental health, and diet. It also helps them understand the importance of health check-ups and quitting smoking. This expanded program will follow participants for a longer period to see if these health improvements last, offering new support that wasn't available before.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

University of Calgary

Enrolment target

1,250

Start

22 Nov 2021

Estimated completion

01 Jun 2025

Physical Inactivity

What is this study about?

The 'Wolf Trail' program is designed to help Indigenous women in specific communities in Alberta and Saskatchewan improve their overall health. This isn't just about physical activity; it's a complete wellness program that brings together many important parts of healthy living. The main goal is to empower women to take a more active role in managing their own health and well-being.

During the program, participants will take part in health education sessions that cover topics like healthy eating and preventing illness. They'll also get to know local healthcare providers. A really special part of this program is that it connects participants with Indigenous Knowledge Keepers and Elders, incorporating cultural and spiritual elements. This helps women feel proud of their identity and discover how connecting with their culture can actually protect and improve their health, bringing a renewed sense of self-worth and community support.

The program hopes to see many positive changes for those who take part. This includes better physical fitness, improved mood and mental health, and stronger social connections. Participants will also learn practical skills like healthy meal planning and cooking, and understand why regular health checks and stopping smoking are so important. Because this expanded program will follow participants for an additional 12 weeks, the organisers hope to see these health benefits continue long after the main program ends.

Key takeaways

A free wellness program for Indigenous women 18+.
Combines physical activity, healthy eating education, and cultural teachings.
Aims to improve fitness, mood, and provide community support.
Includes guidance from Indigenous Knowledge Keepers and Elders.
Focuses on empowering women to manage their own health.
Extended follow-up to see long-term health benefits.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for Indigenous women aged 18 and over who live in specific communities in Alberta and Saskatchewan. This includes several areas like Calgary, Edmonton, and various First Nations communities.

Indigenous women can identify as Métis, First Nations, or Inuit, whether they live on a reserve or elsewhere. The study uses a broad definition of 'women' to ensure it includes cisgender women, transgender women, and those who identify as queer or Two-Spirit individuals.

However, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding are not able to join this particular study.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you an Indigenous woman?
Are you 18 years old or older?
Do you live in one of the specified communities in Alberta or Saskatchewan?
Are you currently not pregnant or breastfeeding?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you join the 'Wolf Trail' program, you'll be taking part in a holistic wellness program that includes physical activities, health education, and cultural elements. The program involves regular sessions where you'll learn about healthy eating, discuss health topics, and do adapted exercises that suit different fitness levels. You'll also connect with Indigenous Knowledge Keepers and Elders.

This specific expansion means the program will include an additional 12 weeks of less intense, follow-up activities after the main program ends. The total duration of your involvement, including this follow-up, will be longer than previous trial versions, aiming to see if health improvements continue for up to a year.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this program could offer many benefits, such as improving your fitness, mental well-being, and understanding of healthy living. You might also build strong friendships, connect more deeply with your culture, and learn how to better access community resources. As with any physical activity, there's a small risk of minor injury, though instructors are skilled at adapting exercises. The program is designed to be supportive, and you have the right to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason.

Locations (7)

Miskanawah
Verified postcode
Calgary, Canada· Recruiting
Edmonton
Verified postcode
Edmonton, Canada· Recruiting
Piikani First Nation
City only
Piikani Nation, Canada· Recruiting
Flying Dust First Nation
City only
Flying Dust First Nation, Canada· Recruiting
Ministikwan Lake Cree Nation
City only
Ministikwan Lake, Canada· Recruiting
Onion Lake Health Centre
Verified postcode
Onion Lake, Canada· Recruiting
Waterhen Lake First Nation
Verified postcode
Waterhen Lake, Canada· Recruiting

Common questions

What is the main goal of the 'Wolf Trail' program?

The main goal is to help Indigenous women improve their overall health and well-being through fitness, education, and cultural connection.

What kind of activities will I do?

You'll take part in physical activities, learn about healthy eating, meet local healthcare providers, and engage with Indigenous cultural traditions and Elders.

Who can join the program?

Indigenous women who are 18 years or older and live in specific areas of Alberta and Saskatchewan can join, including Métis, First Nations, and Inuit women.

How long will the program last?

This expanded program will include an additional 12 weeks of follow-up activities, aiming to see if health benefits last for up to a year after the main program.

What if I'm not very fit?

Fitness instructors are trained to adapt exercises to suit everyone's abilities, so you don't need to be highly fit to join.

How to find out more

Sonja Wicklum, MD CCFP FCFP

sonja.wicklum@ucalgary.ca 403-955-9300 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.