Getting started into a regular physical activity commitment may be a very challenging undertaking. There are several programs in the community that welcome the newly active and provide a motivating and encouraging environment to support your healthy lifestyle.
Physical Activity involves a wide spectrum. Many people get started by joining a yoga or tai chi program or by walking to work. The active part of your day has the potential to be the best part of your day, so be creative and find ways to be active in ways in which suit you.
There are many great resources available that support getting started as newly active or returning to active individuals. Active Communities has a Getting Started Fact Sheet that is helpful. ActNowBC also has an array of documents, articles and facts that pertain to getting started, ideas to increase activity in all parts of the day, safety and injury prevention and many more features that will motivate and encourage you to be more active.
We encourage people getting started to consult with their doctor before engaging in increased in activity levels. It is also important to create environments that you enjoy to incorporate physical activity whether that is gardening, walking with friends, joining a yoga class or swimming with your kids or grandkids. Physical activity involves 30-60 minutes of moderate activity and there are many things to do that are enjoyable and easy to incorporate into your everyday life. Even taking two 15 minute walks a day will lead to positive health benefits.
Parks, Recreation and Culture has a wide variety of programs at both the Community Centre and Sportsplex and Strathcona Gardens also has great programs both in and out of the water. The facilities welcome beginners in many of their programs and have classes for seniors and for those recovering from illness or injury. They both also have weight rooms and certified staff to orient you to the facility and to create a suitable program for you. Please refer to the leisure guide section for more specifics on these programs.
View the Community Directory of Places to be Active for more information about other organizations, groups and facilities for physical activity.
An objective of Active Campbell River is to introduce more beginner programs to the community. If you have ideas or programs you would like to see; please contact Kris Johnson at kris.johnson@campbellriver.ca or by phone at 250.898.7192.