The Canadian Health and Fitness Institute (CHFI) concluded its First Annual National Forum on Health and Fitness last week, marking a significant step toward improving physical, mental, and spiritual health across Canada. Dr. Jack Taunton, CHFI Director, highlighted the transformative potential of the initiatives discussed, emphasizing their capacity to enhance well-being and save taxpayers billions of dollars.
The forum saw 21 high-profile presenters, including Minister of Sport and Physical Activity, the Honourable Carla Qualtrough. Minister Qualtrough underscored the wide-reaching impacts of inactivity in her address, advocating for making physical activity an easy and accessible choice for all Canadians.
One of the major announcements was a new joint venture between CHFI and GoGet.Fit, a digital platform integrating physical activity into students’ lives. Dr. Peter Rawlek, founder of GoGet.Fit and an emergency room physician, also addressed the forum.
Architect Jai Bawa from Ottawa introduced a sustainable and inexpensive prototype hut designed by CHFI. This prototype aims to encourage outdoor activity and combat sedentary lifestyles. The CHFI plans to release the hut’s specifications next month.
Andrew Baker of the Canadian Olympic Committee (COC) emphasized the COC’s role in promoting physical activity through national sport organizations and supporting high-performance athletes to inspire the public. Olympic Gold Medallist Madison Mailey shared her journey from an average athlete to an Olympian, highlighting the importance of community and support.
Dr. Rosalin Miles, founder of the Indigenous Physical Activity and Cultural Circle, announced the launch of the Let’s Move Canada Challenge on June 1st, a collaborative effort with CHFI to motivate Canadians toward more active lifestyles.
Other notable presenters included Dr. Silke Cresswell, founder of the UBC Brain Wellness Foundation; Markku Kostamo of Sanctuary Mental Health Ministries; Katie Fenn, head of the BC Parks and Recreation Association; Mathieu Roy, head of the Trans Canada Trail; Sara Gilbert, head of the Fitness Industry Council of Canada; and Dr. Tommy Gerschman, an expert in pediatric and sports medicine.
The forum featured musical performances by Juno Award-winning singer Shari Ulrich and Dana Powell. It addressed themes of youth participation, inclusivity, indigenous partnership, and clinical research. Audience members were particularly struck by reports suggesting potential healthcare savings of $7 billion to $25 billion through increased physical activity.
Educators from the West Vancouver School District shared initiatives to promote physical literacy among students. Diane Nelson, Director of Instruction, emphasized the importance of teaching fundamental movement skills in classrooms. West Vancouver Mayor Mark Sager and CEO & Superintendent of West Vancouver Schools, Dr. Chris Kennedy, supported these efforts.
The forum is one of nine projects spearheaded by CHFI, aiming to make Canada the fittest nation on earth by 2030. The next forum will be held in Toronto in 2025. CHFI is also expanding its online presence with the Let’s Move Canada Podcast series and a 21-day STRAVA Challenge starting June 1st. For more information, visit LetsMoveCanada.com.
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