Physical Activity Preventing Obesity Among Children and Youth

According to the Canadian Fitness and Lifestyle Research Institute, more than half of 5- to 17-year-olds in Canada are not physically active enough for optimal health and development.

In 1993, the Canadian Medical Association reported that the prevalence of obesity in the past 15 years had increased by more than 50 per cent among 6- to 11-year-olds and by 40 per cent among 12- to 17- year-olds.

Results from a study conducted by the Faculty of Kinesiology at the University of New Brunswick indicated that obesity among Canadian children between 7 and 13 years of age more than doubled between 1981 and 1996.

In 2002, Statistics Canada reported that 25% of 2-3 year old children in Canada are considered clinically obese.

Data compiled by the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada indicates that between 26% and 41% of obese pre-school children and 42% and 63% of obese school- age children will become obese adults.

Physical Activity Building Social Capital

According to Statistics Canada, there was a 7% increase in violent youth crimes in 2000.

In a late 1980s “Fly-In Camp” pilot project in remote Northern Manitoba communities, there was a 17% reduction in youth crime, as opposed to a 10% increase in communities without the program.

Studies indicate that physical activity participation during the high school years reduces delinquent and criminal behaviour.

A pilot project in the late 1980s, involving sport and non-sport skill development activities for economically disadvantaged children in a public housing complex, demonstrated a significant decrease in vandalism and anti-social behaviour.

Studies indicate that physical education programs appear to positively influence many of the deficiency factors of high school drug abusers, including a lack of tolerance for discomfort, a lack of ability to set goals, a lack of sense of self- responsibility, low self-esteem, and a lack of discipline to meet obligations.

A study in the Yukon demonstrated that girls who are involved in sport are 92% less likely to use drugs than girls who do not participate in sport, and 80% less likely to have an unwanted pregnancy.

Let’s Get Moving! Ontario in Motion … Taking the Next Step! PARC Conference - February 2, 2004 David Carmichael

Let’s Get Moving! is a nationwide, community-based campaign that fosters multi-sector collaboration in support of quality daily physical education in schools and opportunities for all children and youth to participate in quality recreation and sport programs in the community.

Background Conceptualized in 2001 by the Canadian Professional Coaches Association (CPCA), the professional arm of the Coaching Association of Canada (CAC) Position statement developed in consultation with leaders from the health, education, recreation and sport sectors Thirteen meetings have been held – 12 in Ontario and 1 in British Columbia Received grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation in May 2003 Goal - to have 65 meetings held in Ontario by December 2005

Position Statement It is imperative for federal, provincial/territorial, and municipal governments to invest in the healthy development of young people by working together in partnership with leaders from the health, education, recreation and sport sectors to ensure that all children and youth are provided with quality daily physical education in schools and opportunities to participate in quality recreation and sport programs in the community.

Physical activity and sport programs should make young people feel: Safe Welcome Competent Connected Empowered Special

Meetings held in … Clinton (May 2002) Huntsville (July 2002) Toronto (Nov 2002) Niagara Falls (Nov 2002) Toronto (Dec 2002) Mississauga (Jan 2003) Toronto (Jan 2003) Windsor (Apr 2003) Hagersville (May 2003) Toronto (May 2003) Hamilton (Oct 2003) Vancouver (Oct 2003)

BECOME PART OF Let’s Get Moving! TOGETHER, WE CAN MAKE A MEANINGFUL DIFFERENCE IN THE LIVES OF YOUNG PEOPLE VISIT