Help you sleep better
Increase your energy
Improve your mental health by decreasing stress
Reduce your risk of:
Heart disease
Certain types of cancer
Type 2 diabetes
High blood pressure
Overweight and obesity
Osteoporosis
It’s important for children and youth to be active too. Kids who are active concentrate and focus better in school, get higher grades, and maintain a healthy weight as they grow. Active children and youth also lower their risk of chronic diseases later in life.
Click below to view the Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines:
Children 5-11
Youth 12-17
Adults 18-64
Older adults 65+
VARIETY IS THE SPICE OF LIFE
Endurance activities – such as walking, swimming, cycling or jogging are activities that make your heart beat faster, make you feel warm and breathe heavier. These activities keep your heart and lungs healthy.
Strength activities – such as lifting weights or pilates are activities that improve posture and balance. These activities also keep your muscles and bones strong.
Flexibility activities – such as gentle reaching, bending and stretching keep your muscles relaxed and your joints mobile. Doing these activities regularly will help you to move easily and stay agile.
OFF THE COUCH!
Being inactive, like sitting, using a computer, watching the television or playing video games, can be bad for your health. In January 2011 new guidelines came out for children and youth that recommend maximum amounts of sedentary (inactive) time to minimize the health risks. You can see the full guidelines by clicking below:
Sedentary Guidelines for Children 5-11
Sedentary Guidelines for Youth 12-17
BABY ON THE WAY?
For healthy women with uncomplicated pregnancies, being physically active is completely safe and great for both mom and baby’s health. Women who are active during pregnancy will have healthy weight gain and also lower their risk of gestational diabetes and high blood pressure.
If you are expecting and would like to be active, talk to your doctor before you start. Download and print the PARmed-X for Pregnancy form and take it to your next appointment.
