Taking the First Steps
If you’re not already physically active, the first few steps can be challenging. You might have questions like: Where do I start? What should I do? And how much is enough?
Don’t worry. You can get there, step by step. Just follow these basic, common sense guidelines:
Medical Check-up – Are you ready?
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See your doctor or health practitioner before starting any new activity or fitness program. Check to see if you have any medical conditions or physical limitations that may restrict your ability to participate in certain activities.
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You may also want to visit the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology and fill out their “ Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire .”
Physical activity interests
Some suggested activity options:
| Low Impact Activities | Moderate Impact Activities |
| Walking | Aerobic exercise classes |
| Golf | Strength training circuit/classes |
| T’ai Chi | Jogging/Running |
| Ballroom, square, or line dancing | Hiking |
| Gentle stretch and strength classes | Cycling |
| Swimming | Tennis, racquetball, squash |
| Water exercise classes | Rowing |
| Bowling | Canoeing/kayaking |
| Yoga/Pilates | Basketball |
| Badminton | Volleyball |
| Gardening | Orienteering |
| Home based exercises | Skiing (cross-country/downhill) |
REMEMBER - Choose activities you ENJOY and have FUN doing!
Links
Canada's Physical Activity Guide to Healthy Active Living (PDF)
