How the Built Environment Shapes Our Health and Fitness
Levi Frehlich, PHD
Levi Frehlich holds a BSc (Hons) in Kinesiology, during which he researched the dietary patterns of undergraduate students. He went on to earn an MSc in Population/Public Health, where he developed a tool to measure neighbourhood-based physical activity. Levi completed his academic journey with a PhD in Epidemiology, exploring the relationship between the built environment and health-related fitness.
In addition to his academic achievements, Levi is a Co-Principal Investigator on the Makoyoh’sokoi program, a wholistic, culturally relevant wellness initiative for Indigenous women in urban, rural, and remote communities. He has also served as Co-President for the Calgary Chapter of Obesity Canada and founded the Calgary Student and New Professional Chapter of Obesity Canada. Currently, Levi is the Research Director for the Alberta Kinesiology Association and a member of the Stanford Lifestyle Medicine Program.
Beyond his academic and advocacy roles, Levi runs Luxury Nutrition and Fitness, a health blog dedicated to sharing research on physical activity, nutrition, and health with the general public.
Nicola Stuebing
Nicola is a fourth-year psychology major at the University of Calgary. Her current role as a research assistant within the Makoyoh’sokoi health program allows her to explore her interests in holistic approaches to health. Other interests of Nicola’s include the impact of psychological stress during pregnancy and biases within our medical and judicial systems. After her undergraduate degree, she hopes to pursue a master's degree in occupational therapy. with the general public.
Key Takeaways
The built environment significantly impacts physical activity and overall health.
Designing communities that promote fitness can improve public health outcomes.
Culturally relevant wellness programs enhance the effectiveness of health initiatives.
Integrating research and community-based strategies supports healthier lifestyles.