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Physical Activity

Last Updated: September 2024 

Being physically active is an important part of a healthy lifestyle, but the truth is at least two in five people in British Columbia do not meet the physical activity recommendations within the Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines. The Guidelines outline what a healthy 24-hours looks for people of all ages when it comes to physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep. Visit the Guidelines to learn how much of these movement behaviours are recommended for you. 

Health benefits of physical activity 

Physical activity is important for our health and well-being. It has benefits for people of all ages and abilities, including: 

  • strengthening bones and muscles 
  • improving physical fitness 
  • lowering risk of chronic health conditions, such as heart disease and several cancers 
  • improving cognitive function, such as memory, attention and processing speed 
  • reducing anxiety and risk of depression 
  • improving sleep 

It is important to note that the health benefits of physical activity can start building up with just a few minutes of any type of activity. Keep reading to learn how you can make healthy movement choices that can make a big impact! 

Adding physical activity to your life 

Physical activity naturally occurs throughout our day in a variety of ways. Walking to school or work and cleaning your home or yard are just a few examples. So how can you be more active? Think about what activities you enjoy, what times of day/week you can incorporate movement, and what supports you have in place that will help you be active. Here are a few ideas to add more physical activity into your day/week: 

  • replace sitting time with movement (for example, walk while talking on the phone) 
  • park your car a little further out in parking lots or get off the bus or skytrain a stop earlier and walk to your destination 
  • try a new activity (for example, a fitness class at your local recreation centre) 
  • get active as a family (for example, go for a bike ride or explore a new playground) 

For more information on how to change your level of physical activity, visit Helping You Make It Happen. 

Physical activity and physical literacy 

Over time, try to build up to and maintain the level of physical activity recommended within the Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines. The Guidelines as well as examples on how to make healthy movement choices are presented in the resources below. The resources include the term “physical literacy”. Physical literacy is the motivation, confidence, physical competence, knowledge and understanding to value and take responsibility for engagement in physical activities for life. This definition consists of several components which you can learn about here. 

Developing physical literacy is a lifelong journey. It begins in early childhood, by learning basic movement skills and taking part in indoor and outdoor activities, and grows in skills, knowledge and behaviours during adolescence and adulthood. Each person’s physical literacy journey is unique and based on their exposure and access to various environments and activities. A person who is physically literate is more likely to engage in movement and physical activity throughout their life, which in turn benefits their health and well-being. 

Physical activity and physical literacy resources developed by British Columbia’s regional health authorities: 

Physical activity can be safe for almost everyone. If you have concerns about your health or becoming more active, speak with your health care provider or a qualified exercise professional. Qualified exercise professionals are available free of charge to all people in British Columbia. To access them, dial 8-1-1 and ask to speak with a qualified exercise professional between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM Pacific Time Monday to Friday. You can also leave a message outside of these hours and email a qualified exercise professional.