Physical activity plays an important role in the well-being and health of Ontarians. According to the Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines, people who are active may live longer lives, as being active can help reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, certain types of cancer, type 2 diabetes, and much more. Being active improves mental health, self-esteem, strength, and keeps people healthy by avoiding illness and injury.
Guidelines
To achieve health benefits, the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology recommends that adults aged 18-64 years should accumulate 150 minutes of physical activity (moderate to vigorous intensity) per week, in bouts of 10 minutes or more. They should be sure to add muscle and bone strengthening activities using major muscle groups at least two days per week.
Intensity
Activities that require moderate-intensity will cause adults to sweat a little or breathe harder, like brisk walking or bike riding. Vigorous intensity activities will cause adults to sweat and be out of breath, like jogging or cross country skiing.
Ideas to get moving!
- If you are an older adult, join one of the free exercise classes in your area
- Bike or walk to work
- Explore hiking trails in and around the area (ideas for North Bay, Mattawa, Parry Sound, and West Nipissing)
- Rake and/or mow the lawn
- Try a new sport
- Go for a brisk walk after each meal