Health Minister Terry Lake has issued the following statement to celebrate National Health and Fitness Day on June 6, 2015:

“National Health and Fitness Day was an idea that sparked during the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games as a way to engage the spirit of the games and create a legacy of improved health through physical literacy for all Canadians. In December 2014, the National Health and Fitness Day Act became law in Canada, giving the day official recognition.

“Today is a great day for British Columbians of all ages and abilities to get out and get active, any way they can. Being active and able to move freely is part of physical literacy. We cannot underestimate the importance of teaching children to be active and healthy, and learning how to move their bodies with confidence.

“And it is never too late, whatever your age. By taking part in a physical activity - whether a yoga class, a nature walk, ball hockey or any other fun play - you’re making a great choice for the short and long term, maintaining the ability to stay healthier for years to come. Physical literacy could very well be the vaccine for inactivity-based diseases.

“Being active is a key aspect of our Healthy Families BC strategy, which focuses on improving the health and wellness of British Columbians through programs to decrease tobacco use, increase opportunities for physical activity, support healthy eating and promote healthy weights. We can all agree that it is far better to prevent a chronic disease in the first place than it is to treat a person once they are already ill.

“Today, take the stairs instead of the elevator, park further away from your work or shopping, and maybe try a game of basketball or soccer at the park. Each day you pay more attention to being physically active means a future of better health for you and your family.

“Get involved and be a part of National Health and Fitness Day’s vision to make Canada the ‘Fittest Nation on Earth.’”

Media Contacts:

Ministry of Health
250 952-1887 (media line)