Media Releases

MEDIA BACKGROUNDER—Winnipeg in motion

What is Winnipeg in motion?

Winnipeg in motion is a physical activity promotion strategy designed to help Winnipeg communities become more physically active for health benefits. Winnipeg in motion partners include the City of Winnipeg, the University of Manitoba and the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority, in collaboration with Manitoba in motion.

Winnipeg in motion focuses on:

• Increasing public awareness of the health benefits of being physically active
• Building partnerships that support and encourage communities to be physically active
• Reducing barriers to participating in regular physical activity

The Winnipeg in motion partners work cooperatively with community partners to provide leadership in the areas of:

• Strategy development and coordination
• Research and evaluation
• Development, coordination and facilitation of accessible community based programs, facilities and open spaces that support citizens of all ages to be physically active for health benefits

How did in motion start?

The initiative was created by the Saskatoon Health Region in partnership with the University of Saskatchewan (College of Kinesiology), City of Saskatoon (Community Services Department) and ParticipACTION. It was launched in Saskatoon in May of 2000.

The strategy has since been adopted by various jurisdictions across Canada, including the City of Winnipeg and the Province of Manitoba. The success of in motion has lead to it being viewed as a "best practice" model for physical activity health promotion strategies, not only in Canada but internationally.

What are the benefits of regular physical activity?

Regular physical activity is one of the keys to good health. Being physically active helps to:

• Reduce your risk for health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, certain cancers, hypertension, depression and osteoporosis
• Maintain healthy bones, muscles and joints
• Maintain a healthy body weight
• Manage stress and increase energy

Are Winnipeggers getting enough physical activity?

The Public Health Agency of Canada recommends at least 30-60 minutes of physical activity on most, if not all days of the week.

In a recent survey of more than 4,000 Winnipeg residents, more than 30% reported that they did not meet the minimum physical activity guidelines recommended in the Canada Physical Activity Guide. Survey respondents cited various reasons for not being active, including:

• Other commitments—such as kids, family, and volunteering
• Environmental factors—including weather, money, and lack of equipment, facilities and transportation
• Health issues—such as illness and age
• Lifestyle—too stressed, not motivated, sedentary job, etc.

Winnipeg in motion partners are committed to working cooperatively with community partners to address these barriers to participation and to help build supportive environments for physical activity within the Winnipeg Health Region.

How can people get more information about Winnipeg in motion?

For more information, citizens may contact:

Website: www.winnipeginmotion.ca
Infoline:940-3648
Fax:957-0884
Email:getactive@winnipeginmotion.ca

Who can media call for more information?

Media inquiries should be directed to Jack Marquardson, Communications Coordinator, Winnipeg Regional Health Authority, at 940-6694 or cell 792-9262.