Posted: November 25, 2013
Another way to accumulate 60 minutes of physical activity each day is by using active transportation.
What is active transportation?
It means to walk, bike or rollerblade instead of going by car! To do this:
Put on your sneakers, strap on a backpack and walk all, or part of the way to school.
Think twice before asking for a drive. Could you walk or use your bike instead?
Did you know that if children walked for all trips less than one kilometer they would accumulate approximately 15 to 20 minutes of walking per trip? They would be well on their way to achieving the 60 minutes/day of physical activity they require for a better health.
Research suggests that, given the choice, most children would prefer to walk or bike to school rather than take a bus or be driven by their parents?
In addition to improving overall health, active transportation can
improve your performance at school
provide an opportunity to spend time with friends
reduce stress
promote quality sleep
improve air quality
Remember every minute counts!