2011 Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines

24 January, 2011

Children need at least 60 minutes of physical activity per day and adults 150 minutes per week

TORONTO (ONTARIO) January 24, 2011 – The Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology (CSEP) today 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.

Visit CESP for the New Physical Activity Guidelines.