Live Actively!
Make the right choice

It's no mystery that physical activity offers great benefits. Research proves that it is good for your mind and for your body. Preaching this to the converted is easy. People who exercise regularly and with commitment tend to lead more mobile, active, and healthy lifestyles than those who do not. They sleep better, wake up fresher, eat better and generally think more clearly, compared to those who are inactive.

However, convincing someone to take up an active lifestyle is no easy feat. Inactive individuals do not necessarily 'feel the love' for exercise. Still, sometimes you only need to try something once to get hooked. Ask an active person how they got started. Often, it begins with one step and leads to many more.

Exactly how does one get hooked on activity?

The right choice for you

What appeals to you? You can choose a solitary or group activity, and do it inside or outside. The chart shows examples that may spark your interest. Is there an activity you have never done but always wanted to try? Maybe now is the time to lace or suit up. Or, you could simply park farther away, get off the bus earlier or dust off that bike and ride to work. Variety, enjoyment and convenience are each important to help with actually do-ing.

Where to go?

Search for exciting new ways to get active by checking with your local university or college, municipal recreation department or YMCA. Ask about instructor qualifications. Find out more about how your active living specialist, personal trainer or fitness instructor was educated. Here's a list of recognized qualifications.

• Group fitness leadership – Alberta Fitness Leadership Certification Association (AFLCA) or Can-Fit-Pro are well regarded certifications in Alberta and Canada.
• Personal fitness training – The Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology has two designations: Certified Personal Trainer (CPT), and Certified Exercise Physiologist (CEP). These are the gold standard in Canada. The American certification Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) is also highly regarded.
• Outdoor activity instructors often hold any number of activity-specific qualifications. Don't be afraid to ask.
• All instructors working in aquatic facilities are required to hold aquatic certifications.

If certain activities interest you, find out how you can participate in your community. Many organizations offer all kinds of activities. Look for qualified staff and instructors wherever you go. Stretch your imagination. Take a lesson. Challenge your body. Try something new – you might just get hooked.