Article content

Calgary smokers are being invited to outrun their nicotine habit.

Athletic wear retailer The Running Room is offering a 10-week smoking cessation program that uses jogging as a way to kick cigarettes.

We apologize, but this video has failed to load.

tap here to see other videos from our team. Try refreshing your browser, or Using jogging to curb smoking habit Back to video

Exercise is employed as a motivator to quit smoking while developing a healthier lifestyle by learning to run a 5 km route.

The system uses anti-smoking aids like Nicorette and specialists who welcome participants’ family members and friends to be involved and lend encouragement.

Running Room founder John Stanton was himself a heavy smoker who used running to quit the habit and get fit.

“It’s an addiction that is one of the toughest to break but we have found a way to offer support, provide the tools necessary to curb the urge to smoke and replace smoking habits with healthier habits,” said Stanton.

The system has been to be seven times more successful in smoking cessation than cold turkey, he added.

The Run to Quit Training Program is being operated across the country and will convene in Calgary April 18 at 6 p.m. at the Country Hills Town Centre Running Room, 500 Country Hills Blvd. N.E.