There is no denying we don’t move as much as we used to or need to, despite being aware of the importance of being active.

How bad is it?

• In Canada, 61 per cent of adults and 26 per cent of children and youth are overweight or obese.
• Fitness levels in children, youth and adults have declined significantly since 1981.
• Nova Scotia has one of the highest rates of obesity in Canada.
• 85 per cent of Canadian adults are considered inactive.
• 93 per cent of Canadian children and youth do not meet the Canadian recommendation of 60 minutes daily physical activity.
• Canadian youth are spending more than six hours a day on weekdays and seven hours on weekends in front of a screen (TV, gaming, computers), not including time spent in school or at work.

Knowing that physical activity can improve health outcomes one has to wonder why inactivity has become the norm. Physical activity is known to help reduce more than 25 chronic conditions such as coronary heart disease, stroke, hypertension, breast cancer, colon cancer, type 2 diabetes and osteoporosis, as well as help achieve a healthy weight, relieve stress, and improve our self-esteem and energy levels.

An increase in sedentary leisure activities such as screen time, lack of access to sport and recreation facilities, busy lifestyles, or simply being intimidated or disillusioned to become active can be attributed to increased inactivity levels. 

Staying active is important for everyone, regardless of age, and not just for losing weight. Children and youth need to be active in order to grow and develop properly and to have fun. Physical activity for adults is important for keeping the strength and mobility needed to complete daily activities and to maintain independence during senior years.

New physical activity guidelines were introduced in Canada in 2011. The guidelines are evidence-based and in line with international standards.

Now get out there and get active! You owe it to yourself.