Getting Canadians with a Disability Active and Fit

Many of the 1.5 million Canadians with a physical disability do not exercise regularly or participate in sports.

Dr. Amy Latimer, Canada Research Chair in Physical Activity Promotion and Disability, is trying to change that situation. Since exercise fosters health benefits and leads to an improved quality of life, she wants to get these Canadians wheeling, walking, running, and playing.

Latimer is developing guidelines for Canadians with physical disabilities that would let them know how much physical activity they need to stay healthy. Her research will also let them know why it’s important to be active and provide tips and motivational messages to help them meet these new physical activity guidelines.

Latimer’s research has the potential to vastly improve the quality of life for Canadians with mobility impairments.