Physical activity stands as one of our most powerful tools to prevent and manage chronic diseases through exercise. For Albertans living with conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or arthritis, regular movement isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential medicine. Studies show that just 150 minutes of moderate activity per week can significantly reduce disease progression, improve daily function, and enhance overall quality of life. Whether you’re managing an existing condition or working to prevent …

Harness the power of physical activity to shield your body from chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. Get moving for at least 150 minutes per week with activities you enjoy, from brisk walks to swimming laps. Consistency is key – make exercise a non-negotiable part of your daily routine, just like brushing your teeth. The more you move, the greater the protective benefits for your long-term health and vitality.
Heart Disease and Stroke
Regular physical …

Harness the power of community to drive positive health outcomes. Set a shared vision for health that resonates with local values and priorities. Identify and engage influential community champions to lead by example. Build partnerships across diverse sectors – healthcare, education, business, non-profits – to align efforts. Empower residents with knowledge, skills and resources to take control of their health. Track progress collaboratively and celebrate successes to sustain momentum.
Find an …

Make physical activity a priority – schedule it into your day like any other important appointment. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, which transforms your health by reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and certain cancers. Choose activities you enjoy, whether it’s brisk walking, swimming, cycling, or dancing. Break it up into shorter 10-minute sessions if needed. Strength training at least twice weekly is also crucial for maintaining muscle mass, bone …

Adopt a balanced diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables to reduce the risk of diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and chronic respiratory conditions. Engage in regular physical activity, aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week to boost cardiovascular health and maintain a healthy weight. Schedule routine health check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar, catching any early signs of chronic disease. Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption to further decrease your risk, and explore available community resources in Alberta for support in …

Join a local sports club to connect with like-minded individuals and foster community spirit while staying active. Schedule regular family walks or activities to enhance familial bonds and model healthy behaviors for younger generations. Organize workplace fitness challenges to build teamwork, reduce stress, and promote a proactive health culture. Participate in social fitness apps to find local events and groups, expanding your social network while engaging in preventive health practices.
Physical Activity as a Social Connector
Group Activities and Team Sports
Participating in group activities and team sports …

Get moving for a healthier, happier you! Regular physical activity delivers powerful benefits for both body and mind, helping you live life to the fullest. Just 30 minutes a day can boost your mood, sharpen your focus, and reduce stress and anxiety. Exercise strengthens your heart, lungs, bones and muscles, lowering risks of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease and some cancers. It also helps maintain a healthy weight, improves sleep, and keeps you mobile and independent as you age. Whether it’s walking, dancing, gardening or playing sports, find activities you enjoy and make them part of your daily routine. The key is to …

Get up and move at least once per hour, even if just to stand up, stretch, or take a quick lap around your workspace. Set a timer as a reminder.
Replace some of your sitting time with standing or active alternatives like using a standing desk, taking walking meetings, or doing bodyweight exercises during TV commercials.
Aim to move in some way – whether formal exercise or integrated into your day – for at least 30 minutes, 5 days a week. Every bit of movement counts!
Reframe your mindset around sitting and physical activity. View extended sitting as abnormal and regular movement as essential for health and …