Program Overview

Fit and Strong! instructor training lasts 8 hours and is led by a Fit and Strong! Master Trainer and other team members. The curriculum includes:

Background / Development of Fit and Strong!
Study Design and Findings / Evidence
How to work with older adults
How to work with persons who have osteoarthritis (OA)
Group dynamics, problem-solving, techniques to build efficacy, dealing with common issues that arise, etc.
Systematic review of program components and how to conduct/ instruct each component
- Types of exercises that are appropriate for older adults with OA
- How to increase intensity and progress participants over time
- How to facilitate group discussion
- How to promote maintenance of physical activity
- Health education skills
- How to develop negotiated physical activity contracts
- How to implement and evaluate Fit and Strong! in community-based settings

Must attend the full-day training before implementing Fit and Strong!
Take attendance during each session
Implement pre and post Fit and Strong! participant outcomes assessment
Lead each session of Fit and Strong! using manual and training materials as guide
Answer participant questions before, during, and after class
Schedule and develop negotiated physical activity contracts with participants one-on-one toward end of program – each contract takes 15-30 mins.
Assist participants with class materials
Assist in setting up and ending each session – Instructors should allocate 2 hrs. per session
Implement participant program evaluation
Enter attendance data
Complete instructor program evaluation

About Fit & Strong!