Regular physical activity is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. Visit the Links and Resources at right to find out more about physical activity and how you can make it part of your day.
For Children (5-11 yrs) and Youth (12-17 yrs)
Physical activity is essential for healthy growth and development. Regular physical activity in childhood develops cardiovascular fitness, strength and bone density and improves self-confidence. Establishing positive habits early in childhood and adolescence can last a lifetime.
Children and youth should accumulate at least 60 minutes of moderate-to vigorous-intensity physical activity daily.
Click on these guidelines for more information:
Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines: Children 5-11 Years
Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines: Youth 12-17 Years
Sedentary Behaviour Guidelines
Children and youth should also minimize the amount of time they spend being sedentary each day. Doing so can help them maintain a healthy body weight, do better in school, improve their self-confidence and improve their fitness. It is recommended that children and youth:
- Limit recreational screen time to no more than two hours per day (i.e. watching TV, playing video games and using a computer or other screens)
- Limit sedentary (motorized) transport, long periods of sitting and time spent indoors throughout the day
Click on these guidelines for more information:
Sedentary Behaviour Guidelines: Children (5-11 years)
Sedentary Behaviour Guidelines: Youth (12-17 years)
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