Be TravelSmart and Stay Healthy
Did you know that being TravelSmart can help you stay healthy? That's because when you take transit or ride your bicycle or walk to school, you're being active. And that's a very good thing for your body and your wellbeing! You're exercising, breathing fresh air, getting some sunshine and socializing with your friends.
Canada's Report Card on Physical Activity for Kids
Just like the report card you get from your school, Canada also gets a report card every year. Canada's report card tells us about the level of physical fitness of Canadian youths. Sadly, we're not doing very well. Last year, Canada got a "D" on its report card.
91% of Canadian kids aren't active enough
The report card said:
- 91% of Canadian kids aren't active enough – at least 90 minutes every day. That means nine out of every 10 kids you know aren't exercising enough!
- Canadian children aged 10 to 16 are spending around six hours every day in front of a screen – that includes the TV, computer and video games.
- The number of overweight and obese kids is rising drastically.
TravelSmart and Your Health
Although "D" isn't a very good grade, it doesn't mean that if we make some effort we can't see improvements very quickly. The report card tells us Canadian kids aren't exercising enough, are spending too much time in front of the TV (or computer) and are gaining too much weight. So what can being TravelSmart do to help?
Well, instead of getting a ride in the car all the time, think about asking your parents if you can take transit, cycle or walk. There are lots of options when it comes to transportation, and the TravelSmart options have some great benefits for your health. For example:
- You'll get more exercise! Even walking to and from the bus stop involves physical activity. And if you cycle, run or walk – even better!
- You'll help stay in shape and manage your weight! The more you move, the more your muscles work and calories you burn. So, clearly sitting in a car isn't as active or as healthy as if you were cycling, walking or catching a bus.
- You'll feel happier! When you exercise, your brain produces chemicals called "endorphins" and these actually make you feel good and put you in a positive, happy mood.
- You'll get fresh air! Did you know the air inside a car during rush hour is actually worse than the outside air? Do your lungs a favour and stay outside!
- You'll develop new skills! TravelSmart options like taking the bus can teach you about time and schedules (catch the bus on time!), simple math (have the right change for the fare!), and making a plan (plan the right route for where you're going!). All of this can actually be fun to do with your family and friends as you test each other on things like when is the next bus or train, how many quarters are needed for the fare, or how many different ways can you get to your destination!
Are you an active kid or family? Share your stories and ideas about being TravelSmart by leaving a comment below.