Physical activity improves health and well-being. It reduces stress, strengthens the heart and lungs, increases energy levels, helps you maintain and achieve a healthy body weight and it improves your outlook on life.

Research shows that physical inactivity can cause premature death, chronic disease and disability. Health Canada encourages Canadians to integrate physical activity into their every day life; at home, at school, at work, at play and on the way ... that's active living!

For children, regular physical activity is essential for healthy growth and development. For adults, it allows daily tasks to be accomplished with greater ease and comfort and with less fatigue. For seniors, weight-bearing physical activity reduces the rate of bone loss associated with osteoporosis and regular physical activity maintains strength and flexibility, balance and coordination and can help reduce the risk of falls. Regular physical activity prolongs independent living.

Being physically active not only strengthens your body, it also makes you feel good about yourself.

What Can You Do?
Physical activity is something that everyone can do. You don't need to run a marathon or spend hours at a gym. Look for simple ways to be physically active every day.

You could:

• Take a walk once a day;
• Take the stairs instead of the elevator;
• Spend less time in front of the television or computer;
• Play actively with your kids;
• Walk, wheel or cycle for short trips; or
•  Find out about walking and cycling paths nearby and use them

How can I improve my physical fitness?
Programs designed to improve physical fitness take into account frequency (how often), intensity (how hard), and time (how long). They provide the best conditioning.

The FIT Formula:
F = frequency (days per week)
I = intensity (how hard, e.g., easy, moderate, vigorous) or         percent of heart rate
T = time (amount for each session or day)

What are other benefits of physical activity?

• Physical activity builds healthy bones, muscles and joints, and    reduces the risk of colon cancer. Millions of Americans suffer    from illnesses that can be prevented or improved through    regular physical activity.
• Physical activity also helps psychologically. It reduces feelings of    depression and anxiety, improves mood and promotes a sense    of well-being.
• The 1996 Surgeon General's Report on Physical Activity also    suggests that active people have a lower risk for stroke.