“Physical activity is all movements in everyday life, including work, recreation, exercise, and sporting activities…”
Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines
Children need at least 60 minutes of physical activity per day and adults 150 minutes per week
In January, 2011, the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology (CSEP) announced new Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines. The new guidelines state children (5-11 years) and youth (12-17 years) require at least 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity activity per day while adults (18-64 years) and older adults (65 years and older) must get at least 150 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity per week. Importantly, Canadians should try and exceed the minimum activity thresholds as the greater the variety, intensity and duration of the physical activity, the greater the health benefit.
“The new Physical Activity Guidelines provide a minimum target to gain substantial heath benefits. Currently, only 9 per cent of boys and 4 per cent of girls accumulate 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity per day,” says Dr. Mark Tremblay, Chair of the Physical Activity Guidelines Committee of the CSEP. “Canadians must add more physical activity to their daily routines to promote and preserve their health and well-being.”
These guidelines are the result of over four years of research analysis funded by several groups including the Public Health Agency of Canada. They provide clear and concise instructions and tips for Canadians to achieve required levels of physical activity.
South Shore Region Contacts:
| Debby Smith | Nova Scotia Department of Health & Wellness | 634-7505 | |
| André Bouchard | Regional Physical Activity Coordinator | 634-7504 |  |
| Gord Tate | Chester Active Living/Transportation Coordinator | 275-3490 | |
| Lisa Landry | Physical Activity & Community School Coordinator Town and Municipality of Shelburne |
875-2831 | |
| Samantha Reyno | Physical Activity Coordinator District of Barrington and the Town of Clark’s Harbour |
637-2903 | |
| Natalie Surette d’Entremont | Argyle Active Living Coordinator | 648-3379 | |
| Coming soon | Yarmouth Physical Activity Coordinator | 742-8868 | |
