Make Your Move Oakville is the Town's public education and awareness program to promote the benefits of healthy, active lifestyles and encourage residents to become more active through various sport and recreational activities.
Regular, moderate physical activity is good for your heart. Health Canada's Physical Activity Guide recommends you include at least 60 minutes or more of moderate physical activity (such as brisk walking) on most or all days of the week for health benefits. The amount of activity can be accumulated in shorter sessions, such as three 10-minute walks per day. The Town encourages its residents to get active your way, every day!
Try these suggestions for being active every day:
- Walk to your local store rather than use the car.
- Meet a friend for a walk rather than a drink or a meal.
- Get out in the garden.
- Get off the bus early and walk one or two stops. Visit the Oakville Transit website for bus route information.
- Take the stairs rather than the lift or escalator.
- Walk at lunchtime with a friend or after dinner with the family.
- Put on your favourite music and dance in the living room!
- Join your local community centre, gym or sports team.
- Organize family outings that include activities like trail walking, bike riding or swimming.
- Take up an active hobby like salsa dancing.
- Form a walking group at work or in your neighbourhood. Visit the Walkable Oakville web page for walking groups near you.
- Sign up for a Parks, Recreation and Culture program - there's something for the whole family.
If you have been inactive and want to begin an exercise program, it's a good idea to see your doctor first or visit the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontatrio website to view their list of risk factors.
Active Living Tip
Make physical activity a regular part of your day. Choose activities that you enjoy and can do regularly. For example, to reach a 30-minute goal for the day, walk the dog for 10 minutes before and after work, and add a 10 minute walk at lunchtime. Or, swim three times a week and take a yoga class on the other days.
Physical Activity Log (PAL)
Find out how active you currently are and how much more you need to do for health benefits. Visit the Canada in Motion website to set up your own personal physical activity log (PAL) and start tracking your physical activity. Your PAL will convert your activity choices into light, moderate or vigorous activities. By entering your daily activities, your PAL will let you know if you are keeping on track with your personal physical activity plan.
The Town of Oakville would like to thank the Ministry of Health Promotion for their assistance towards the Make Your Move program.
