2012 Get Active Toronto Report Highlights:
Low levels of physical activity have not changed much over the last decade – To generate an increase in youth physical activity Get Active Toronto recommends the involvement and integration of youth in developing and implementing initiatives.
Socio-cultural barriers make a difference – Youth from low income households are less active then youth from high-income households. It is imperative to ensure a more equitable distribution of resources, supplies and activities among Toronto schools.
Large gap among youth about knowing and doing – Youth are more likely to engage in physical activity when they understand and perceive that physical activity is fun. It is critical to link fun physical activities to health gains for youth – fun, fitness, and education together.
Large gap among youth about knowing and doing – Youth are more likely to engage in physical activity when they understand and perceive that physical activity is fun. It is critical to link fun physical activities to health gains for youth – fun, fitness, and education together.
Girls are less active than boys – In 2009/10, 50% of girls were inactive compared to 27% for boys. Girls at the Youth Summit* believe homework and responsibilities at home (chores, taking care of siblings) prevent them from engaging in physical activity after school. A key recommendation is to link sports and physical activity and recreation to social and networking opportunities to encourage participation of girls.
Girls may require a different approach – Recognize the changing needs of growing girls and adapt sports, physical activity and recreation accordingly.
Schools play an important role in fostering physical activity – Encourage school boards to hire full time experienced health and physical education teachers. Treat physical education as the necessity it is: critical to a lifetime of health and wellbeing; and just as critical as grammar, math and science.
Girls may require a different approach – Recognize the changing needs of growing girls and adapt sports, physical activity and recreation accordingly.
Schools play an important role in fostering physical activity – Encourage school boards to hire full time experienced health and physical education teachers. Treat physical education as the necessity it is: critical to a lifetime of health and wellbeing; and just as critical as grammar, math and science.
Environment and neighborhoods make a difference – Support the development of walkableneighbourhoods in Toronto. Promote the development of safe recreation spaces (indoor and outdoor) that are accessible by all Torontonians.
