Document Actions
Back to Basics
There are a lot of ways you can build physical activity into your life at little or no cost. Why not try something new, and check out stability ball training at local community centres?
Concern over finances is a common stressor for Canadians. When we are under stress, our bodies are not as good at fighting infection, controlling blood sugar, blood pressure, or cholesterol. Many of us work hard and take leisure time for granted. Making time for enjoyable physical activity can refresh, restore, and renew you. Physical activity has also been shown to reduce anxiety and depression. But, doesn’t physical activity cost a lot of money? It doesn’t have to! There are a lot of ways you can build physical activity into your life at little or no cost avoiding more financial stress.
 | Consider the following ideas: |
- Take the stairs where possible. If using escalators or elevators, get off a few floors early and walk the rest.
- Plan a nature hike at a conservation area.
- If childcare is a concern, check your library for a great selection of free workout DVDs and work out at home, using canned food as hand weights.
- Enjoy walking or running? Use the online tool: www.mapmyrun.com to find local routes, or plan your own.
- Walk the dog every day and make it a family outing.
- Try something new and check out yoga, stability ball training, or indoor cycling “spinning” classes at local community centres.
- Visit a secondhand sports equipment store for great deals on gently used sports equipment.
- Join a workplace sports team that is supported by your employer. If there isn’t one, consider starting one!
- Check your public pools for open swim sessions. Swimming is a great exercise for your heart and lungs and is generally safe for people with injuries or arthritis.
Physical activity doesn’t have to be an added financial stress. It can fit into your life at little or no cost, you just have to be creative and work with what you have.
Keep in mind that Canada’s Physical Activity Guide recommends that adults do 30 to 60 minutes of moderate physical activity four to seven times per week for health benefits. You can reach this by doing 10 minute blocks of activity a few times per day. Start slowly and build up.
Top 5 Activities reported by Canadians
| RANK, 2005 | ACTIVITY |
| 1 | Walking |
| 2 | Gardening, yard work |
| 3 | Home exercise |
| 4 | Swimming |
| 5 | Bicycling |
Note* All can be done for little or no cost |
