Reap the Benefits - even from light and moderate effort activities!

 Did you know?

Scientists say, accumulate 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity every day to stay healthy or improve your health. Moderate intensity physical activities are equal in effort to a brisk walk - walking a kilomter in 12-15 minutes.

Are you ready for Action?

Most adults are not active enough to get the health benefits. However, it is easier than you think. If you are ready to lead a more active lifestyle, click on the description below that best describes your current level of physical activity.

Thinking about Being Active

• I would describe myself as inactive
• I want to be more active but am having trouble starting
• My activities are light effort (heart rate does not increase much, very little strain involved)

Trying Physical Activity on for Size

• I am active, but not regularly
• I might plan something active once a week
• I am having trouble being consistent and finding the time
• My activities are light to moderate (brisk walk, heavy yard work, speedy house cleaning) effort

Growing the Active Habit

• I'm active for at least 30 minutes (accumulated time) at least 3 days a week
• My activity is at a moderate or vigorous effort
• Regular physical activity is a NEW habit for me
• I'm fairly consistent, but I'm worried about losing my momentum

Active for Life

I am active 5-7 days a week for at least 30 minutes (accumulated time) a day at a moderate or vigorous effort
• I've been active longer than 6 months and feel great about my healthy habit

Getting Back on Track

After being active regularly for a month … or even six months, I have totally lost momentum and have turned into a couch potatoe
I am no longer active after a period of being very active

 

Looking for more on Physical Activity?

The workplace also has a huge impact on how active you are. Find out how to incorporate more Physical Activity into your work day. The Physical Activity @ Work factsheet has all the information you need to find the time to be active at work.

Active Transportation encourages people to choose modes of transportation that require human power, such as walking, cycling, skating or skiing, for a cleaner environment and improved personal health.

Walking Works Find out why walking is the #1 activity of choice for Canadians.

Do you worry about your weight and size or wonder if your weight is "unhealthy"?  Did you know that trying to shed those "unhealthy" pounds with diet pills, potions or radical diets often does more damage to your health than just carrying a few extra pounds? Find out what a Healthy Weight really means! 

The Public Health Agency of Canada has more great information and tips. Click here to get your copy of the Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines for Adults. There is also a set of guidelines for older adults.