RTE Operation Transformation show returns tonight - when to watch on Irish screens

Operation Transformation (OT) makes its return tonight - Wednesday, January 3, at 9:35pm.

Presenter Kathryn Thomas will be on hand to encourage and cheer the show’s five new leaders every step of the way as they embark on a health and wellness plan under the supervision of four qualified experts.

Devising the health and wellness plan and guiding the class of 2024 leaders in a new chapter of self-improvement are the team of OT experts; principal clinical psychologist Dr Eddie Murphy, dietitian Sophie Pratt, general practitioner Dr Sumi Dunne and fitness expert Karl Henry. 

This season will see the launch of a brand-new Meal Plan devised by OT expert, CORU registered dietitian, and member of the Irish Institute of Nutrition and Dietetics, Sophie Pratt, aiming to aid a more sustainable approach to healthy eating that also reflects the cost-of-living crisis*.   

For the first time, the series has opened the OT Meal Plan to secondary schools across the country, with the Main Meal plan featuring three recipes from Home Economic students across the country. During the series, Sophie will visit each school, cook dishes, and educate students about the value of cooking as an essential life skill.

In another OT first on Thursday 18th January 2024, OT will host Operation Transformation National Blood Pressure Day in association with the Irish Pharmacy Union. With a membership of just over 1800 pharmacies across the country, each participating pharmacy will offer free blood pressure readings to their community. The programme will highlight the importance of blood pressure awareness as it is a key health indicator – knowing your blood pressure numbers is the first step to a long and healthy life.  

Kathryn Thomas said: “Our 2024 leaders are just phenomenal and without a doubt are going to inspire the entire nation as they embark on their health transformations – at the same time encouraging us all to focus on our own health and wellness goals come January too.

"This year we are delighted to launch our very first Operation Transformation National Blood Pressure Day and we are thoroughly delighted Ireland Lights Up is back and we’ll encourage the nation to train with us for the 5km run in the Phoenix Park, the ultimate nod to the power of the Operation Transformation community.” 

Kilbeggan, Co Westmeath will be the home of OT 2024. Each week the five leaders will have their Health Check-In at St James Hall, Kilbeggan. In partnership with Westmeath County Council, the county will host the weekly Ad Break Challenges where Karl Henry gets groups from across the county moving, as well as the audience at home.   

Katie Jones has continued to embrace change in her life since she was a leader in 2022. She will return to present series two of the OT Podcast. Over the course of eight weeks Katie will meet the 2024 leaders and experts. The podcast will provide additional up to the minute content for OT fans. It will feature former leaders, Find Your Sport, delve into meal and exercise plans, and prepare for the much-loved OT 5K. 

Ireland Lights Up returns for its 7th year. With just over 1,200 clubs participating in 2023, this hugely popular initiative by the GAA encourages clubs from the 32 counties to open their grounds and allow people to safely walk under their lights.

The GAA and Get Ireland Walking are delighted to invite communities back into the safe outdoor spaces where everyone can get moving at their own pace. Sport Ireland, Athletics Ireland, Local Sports Partnerships and Operation Transformation will work together to bring communities safely together, culminating in the 5K in the Phoenix Park on February 17th, 2024.