Primary Care in motion

The evidence is clear that physical activity plays an essential role in the prevention and treatment of diseases such as osteoporosis, heart disease, diabetes, certain cancers and other chronic diseases.

However, many Winnipeggers do not get enough regular physical activity to maintain or improve their health. Incorporating physical activity into daily life can be challenging for many people. Lack of time, lack of energy, lack of motivation, lack of knowledge and lack of money are among the top reported barriers.

Health professionals are primary and respected sources of health information. Many health care providers underestimate the influence they have in assisting their patients to consider or make healthy lifestyle changes. With the proper supports and up to date information, health professionals can greatly and positively influence their clients to change their behaviours.

Winnipeg in motion is developing Primary Care in motion which is a strategy that recognizes that crucial role that health professionals have in promoting physical activity. The Primary Care in motion strategy will support health professionals by linking them to qualified exercise professionals, valuable counseling tools and physical activity promotion resources, as well as linking patients to community based opportunities to be physically active daily.