Adopted Physical Activity Strategy Nov 2015

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Table of contents
Executive Summary ……………………………………………………………………………….5
Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour
Physical Activity………………………………………………………………………………. 8-9
Sedentary Behaviour…………………………………………………………………………. 10-11
National Trends in Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour………………...……….. 12
Provincial Trends in Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour………………………... 13
Quick Facts……………………………………………………………………………………. 14
The Town of Antigonish
Community Profile……………………………………………………………………………. 16
Getting Active in Antigonish…………………………………………………………………. 17
The Current State.................................................................................................. 18-19
Hopes for the Future..................................................................................………. 20-21
Challenges ........................................................................................................... 22-24
A Strategy for Change
Defining The Vision…………………………………………………………………………… 26
Guiding Principles and Target Groups
Guiding Principles…………………………………………………………………….… 27
Target Groups…………………………………………………………………………... 28
Goals and Objectives………………………………………………………………………… 29
Action Steps
Community Partners…………………………………………………………………… 30
Actions for Information, Interest, and Instruction…………………………………… 31-32
Actions for a Supportive Social Environment………………………………………...33-34
Actions for a Supportive Physical Environment……………………………………...35-36
Actions for Capacity Building and Continuous Quality Improvement……………...37
Bringing It All Together………………………………………………………………………. 38
Appendices
Appendix 1: Community Assets…………………………………………………………..
Appendix 2: Bibliography…………………………………………………………………..
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44-46
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Executive Summary
The Town of Antigonish Physical Activity Strategy is a call to action for community organizations, agencies,
business and municipal leaders to address the unacceptably low levels of physical activity among the citizens
of the Town of Antigonish.
The benefits of physical activity and risks of sedentary behaviour are well-established, yet low levels of
physical activity and high levels of sedentary behaviour persist globally, nationally, provincially, and locally.
A variety of factors in today’s society often make it easier to be sedentary than to be physically active. These
factors range from those that are socioeconomic (such as lower levels of income or education), to the way
people schedule themselves to live fast-paced, busy lives.
The Town of Antigonish Physical Activity Strategy will be used as a guide for community organizations,
agencies, business and municipal leaders to strive toward the following vision for a more physically active
future in the Town of Antigonish:
The Town of Antigonish is a community where active living is the easy choice for those
who visit, stay, work and play.
Research on best-practices, along with community consultations through surveys, interviews, and focus
groups, led to the establishment of the following 4 strategic goals for the Town of Antigonish Physical
Activity Strategy:
To increase support for the citizens of the Town of Antigonish to build the knowledge, attitudes, and
skills they need to pursue physically active lifestyles.
To provide a social environment in the Town of Antigonish that supports physically active lifestyles.
To provide a physical environment in the Town of Antigonish that supports physically active lifestyles.
To ensure that there are adequate resources to implement the Physical Activity Strategy and that it
remains effective over time.
The Strategy defines objectives and actions that fall under the goals listed above. Actions should be undertaken
in the next 5 years to move toward the vision of an Antigonish where active living is the easy choice.
The Town of Antigonish Physical Activity Strategy is a living document; it is meant to change as the needs
and resources in the community change. It will be monitored and evaluated on a regular basis to ensure that it
remains responsive and effective over time.
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Acknowledgements
The Town of Antigonish Active Living Coordinator would like to thank all the individuals, organizations, and
agencies who took part in focus groups and interviews, and completed surveys. Community input was vital to
the creation of this document.
A special thanks to:
•Nova Scotian Municipalities and the Department of Health and Wellness for sharing existing Physical
Activity Strategies
•Tricia Cameron, Director of Recreation and Special Events, Town of Antigonish
•Eric Lumsden, Regional Physical Activity Coordinator, NS Department of Health and Wellness
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Physical Activity
What is physical activity?
Physical activity is defined as any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that requires energy
expenditure46. Physical activities vary in intensity and include examples like gardening, walking, and cycling8.
What are the benefits of being physically active?
There is well established scientific evidence that regular physical activity is an important component of
physical, mental, and social health. In addition to this, physical activity has economic and environmental
benefits14. More physical activity provides greater health benefits for all ages.
Physical health benefits9:
Mental Health Benefits12,19,21:
•Weight control
•Reduced risk of many chronic illnesses
•Strengthened bones and muscles
•Improved ability to do daily activities and prevent falls (in
older adults, specifically)
•Increased chances of living longer
•Promotion of a healthy appetite
•Improved sleep
•Less tension, stress, mental fatigue, anger and frustration
•Reduction in anxiety and depression
•Improved mood, self-esteem, body image and confidence
•Improved concentration, enhanced memory and learning
•A natural energy boost
•A sense of achievement
•Improved social life and experience of fun
Social Benefits12,21:
Economic benefits12,21:
•Increased community cohesion
•Improved social/community networks and social capital
•Improved family and community connectedness
•Safer communities
•Reduction in sense of isolation and loneliness
•Health savings from
reduced prevalence of
chronic disease
•Productivity gains
•Creation of employment
•Attraction of tourism
•Low cost means of
Social benefits for children, specifically:
•Development of communication, interpersonal, leadership, transportation
•Support for local business
co-operation, and self-discipline skills
•Reduction in absenteeism
•Creation of lasting friendships
•Reduction in crime
•Increased interest in accepting responsibility
•Teaches how to deal with winning and losing
•Provides a vehicle for responsible risk taking
•May deter anti-social behavior
Social benefits for seniors, specifically:
• Increased social contact
• Prolonged, independent living
Environmental
sustainability12,21:
Environmental benefits
associated with physical
activity are particularly
prevalent where walking or
cycling replaces car trips.
These benefits include:
•Reduced traffic congestion
•Reduced air pollution
•Reduced greenhouse gas
emissions
•Reduced noise pollution
•Safer places with people out
and about
•Reduced need for space
required to store, drive and
park motor vehicles
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How much physical activity do people need?
Guidelines courtesy of the Canadian Society of Exercise Physiology6
Early Years (0-4 years)
For healthy growth and development…
Infants (<1 year) should be physically active several
times daily, particularly through interactive floorbased play.
Toddlers (aged 1-2 years) and preschoolers (aged 3-4
years) should accumulate at least 180 minutes of
physical activity at any intensity spread throughout
the day, including:
•A variety of activities in different environments
•Activities that develop movement skills
•Progression toward at least 60 minutes/day of
energetic play by 5 years of age.
Being active as an infant means…
•Tummy time
•Reaching for or grasping balls or other toys
•Playing or rolling on the floor
•Crawling around the home
Being active as a toddler or preschooler means…
•Any activity that gets kids moving
•Climbing stairs and moving around the home
•Playing outside and exploring their environment
•Crawling, brisk walking, running or dancing
The older children get, the more energetic play they need,
such as hopping, jumping, skipping, and biking.
Children (5-11 years)
To achieve health benefits, children aged 5-11 years
should accumulate at least 60 minutes of moderate- to
vigorous-intensity physical activity daily including:
•Vigorous-intensity activities at least 3 days/week
•Strengthening activities at least 3 days/week
Youth (12-17 years)
To achieve health benefits, youth aged 12-17 years
should accumulate at least 60 minutes of moderate- to
vigorous-intensity physical activity daily. This should
include:
•Vigorous-intensity activities at least 3 days/week.
•Strengthening activities at least 3 days/week.
Adults (18-64 years)
To achieve health benefits, adults aged 18-64 years
should accumulate at least 150 minutes of moderateto vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity per
week, in bouts of 10 minutes or more.
It is also beneficial to add strengthening activities
using major muscle groups, at least 2 days/week.
Moderate-intensity physical activities cause children to sweat
a little and to breathe harder. Activities like: Bike riding
Vigorous-intensity physical activities will cause children to
sweat and be ‘out of breath’.
Activities like: Running, swimming
Moderate-intensity physical activities will cause teens to
sweat a little and to breathe harder.
Activities like: Skating, bike riding
Vigorous-intensity physical activities will cause teens to
sweat and be ‘out of breath’.
Activities like: Running, rollerblading
Moderate-intensity physical activities will cause adults to
sweat a little and to breathe harder. Activities like: Brisk
walking
Vigorous-intensity physical activities will cause adults to
sweat and be ‘out of breath’.
Activities like: Jogging, cross-country skiing
Older Adults (65 years+)
To achieve health benefits and improve functional
abilities, adults aged 65+ should accumulate at least
150 minutes of moderate- to vigorous intensity
aerobic physical activity/week, in bouts of 10 minutes
or more.
Older adults should add muscle and bone
strengthening activities using major muscle groups at
least 2 days/week. Those with poor mobility should
perform physical activities to enhance balance and
prevent falls.
Moderate-intensity physical activities will cause older adults
to sweat and to breathe harder. Activities like: Brisk walking
Vigorous-intensity physical activities will
cause older adults to sweat and be ‘out of breath’.
Activities like: Cross-country skiing, swimming
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Sedentary Behaviour
What is sedentary behaviour?
Sedentary behaviour refers to any waking activity characterized by an energy expenditure ≤ 1.5 metabolic
equivalents in addition to a sitting or reclining posture. In general, this means that any time a person is sitting
or lying down, they are engaging in sedentary behaviour. Common sedentary behaviours include watching
television, driving, and reading34.
Large volumes of daily sedentary time are an integral element of how humans have adapted to our modern-day
physical and social environments. In contemporary societies, we sit not only to pursue many of our serious
purposes in life, but also to enjoy the majority of our diversions and recreations. Most obviously, we sit in cars
to get to and from our places of work; we sit to do much of our work, particularly when using communication
technology that has become integral to so many occupations; and at home, we sit in front of our television sets
and use other screen-based entertainment and communication devices. Put simply, most of us are likely to
move from chair to chair throughout our daily lives.29
What are the risks of being sedentary?
Extended periods of sedentary times puts people at risk of chronic diseases and disabilities such as:
•Heart disease
•Stroke
•High blood pressure
•Type 2 diabetes
•Colon & breast cancer
•Osteoporosis
•Osteoarthritis
•Depression
•Anxiety
•Reduced physical function in older adults23, 24, 33
How much sedentary time is too much?
Early Years (0-4 years)
For healthy growth and development, caregivers should minimize the time infants (<1 year), toddlers (aged 1-2 years)
and preschoolers (aged 3-4 years) spend being sedentary during waking hours. This includes prolonged sitting or being
restrained (e.g., stroller, high chair) for more than one hour at a time.
• For those under 2 years, screen time (e.g., TV, computer, electronic games) is not recommended.
• For children 2-4 years, screen time should be limited to under one hour per day; less is better.
Children (5-11 years)
For health benefits, children (aged 5-11 years) should minimize the time they spend being sedentary each day. This
may be achieved by:
• Limiting recreational screen time to no more than 2 hours/day; lower levels are associated with more health benefits.
• Limiting sedentary (motorized) transport, extended sitting and time spent indoors throughout the day.
Youth (12-17 years)
For health benefits, youth (aged 12-17 years) should minimize the time they spend being sedentary each day. This may
be achieved by:
• Limiting recreational screen time to no more than 2 hours/day; lower levels are associated with more health benefits.
• Limiting sedentary (motorized) transport, extended sitting and time spent indoors throughout the day.
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Adults (18-64 years)
Though the Canadian Society of Exercise Physiology (CSEP) has not yet created sedentary behaviour guidelines for
those aged 18-64 years, it is suggested that adults should stand at least once/hour to counteract the damage sitting does
to the body16.
The Australian Department of Health offers many suggestions11 as to how this age group can avoid prolonged
sedentary time throughout the day. Suggestions include: listening to recorded books while you walk, clean, or work in
the garden instead of sitting and reading; walk to deliver messages to coworkers rather than emailing them; parking
further away from your destination to get in some extra steps.
Older Adults (65 years+)
Though the Canadian Society of Exercise Physiology (CSEP) has not yet created sedentary behaviour guidelines for
those aged 65+ years, studies indicate that there are benefits associated with reduced sedentary time in this age group
23, 30, 33
. A study led by Luis B. Sardinha of the Exercise and Health Laboratory at the University of Lisbon found that
older adults should make 9 interruptions for every hour spent in sedentary behaviour to improve physical function in
older age.
Some tips for those 65+ to break up sedentary time11, 32, 35:
•Look for group activities or classes in the community, or get active with family or/friends.
•Walk wherever and whenever you can.
•Take the stairs instead of the elevator, when possible.
•Carry your groceries home.
•Get up from your chair and walk about the room every hour (helps reduce your risk of falls).
•Consider doing a few basic balance exercises, such as trying to stand on one leg for a minute three times a day which
can not only help balance but also help improve your hip bone strength.
•Set your phone alarm to go off every hour, or if you are watching TV you could get up in every advertisement break
or at the end of each program.
•Think about standing up to read a chapter of your book or stand up while you are talking on the phone.
•If you use the bus, get up one stop early and stand for the rest of the journey.
Figure 1. Taking the stairs instead of the
elevator is one suggestion for decreasing
sedentary time in your day.
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National Trends in Physical Activity
and Sedentary Behaviour
The Canadian Health Measures Survey
The Canadian Health Measures Survey (CHMS) is a national survey that is led by Statistics Canada in
partnership with Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada. Its purpose is to collect information
from Canadians that is relevant to their health including physical fitness and physical activity levels.
The most recent cycle of the CHMS, conducted between January 2012 and December 2013, involved 5700
participants aged 3 to 79 living in the 10 Canadian Provinces, representing approximately 96% of Canadians.
Despite the established benefits of physical activity as well as the risks involved with inactivity and sedentary
behavior, results of the CHMS indicated that the majority of Canadians did not meet the Canadian physical
activity guidelines and most spent the majority of their waking hours in a sedentary state.
Canadian Children & Youth5,38
Results from the 2012 and 2013 CHMS indicated that most school-aged children and youth were not meeting
the Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines. In school-aged children between the ages of 5 and 17, 13% of boys
and 6% of girls were getting an average of at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity on a
daily basis. Girls aged 12 to 17 were least likely to get the recommended amount of activity (3%), whereas
boys aged 5 to 11 were most likely to meet the guidelines for moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (18%).
Results from the 2007-2011 Canadian Health Measures Survey indicated that time spent sedentary was higher
in youth aged 12 to 17 (9 hours for males and 10 hours for females) compared to children 6 to 11 years of age
(8 hours for both boys and girls) .
Canadian Adults4,5
The 2012 to 2013 CHMS results indicated that adults aged 18 to 79 accumulated an average of
about 12 minutes per day of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity in bouts of 10 minutes or more. As such,
about 1 in 5 adults achieved the recommended 150 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, set out
by the Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines for adults and older adults. The percentage of adults meeting the
guidelines was lower in older age groups. Adults aged 18 to 39 were significantly more likely (32%) to meet
the guidelines than those aged 40 to 59 (18%) or 60 to 79 (12%).
The results of the 2007-2009 CHMS indicated that adults spent an average of 10 hours a day in sedentary
pursuits (not including sleep). Sedentary time was significantly higher in females compared to males,
particularly in those aged 40 to 59 years. Sedentary time also varied with age, ranging from 9 hours 30 minutes
in younger adult males to 9 hours 54 minutes in older adult males. In females, sedentary time ranged from 9
hours and 39 minutes in the youngest age group to 10 hours and 6 minutes in the oldest age group5.
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Provincial Trends in Physical Activity
and Sedentary Behaviour
Nova Scotian Children & Youth
According to ‘Thrive!, A plan for a healthier Nova Scotia’41, “In Nova Scotia, 1 in 3 children and youth is
overweight or obese, and rates of unhealthy eating, sedentary behaviour, and inactivity are much higher. Our
rates of chronic disease are among the highest in the country”. These statements are quite alarming. To move
toward happier and healthier communities, there is a need for real change in the province of Nova Scotia.
The Keeping Pace surveillance study42 is one that used objective accelerometer measures of physical activity
as well as body mass index of Nova Scotian students in grades 3, 7, and 11 between 2009 and 2010.
Key findings were as follows:
•Most Grade 3 boys (82%) and girls (80%) achieved a minimum of 60 minutes per day of moderate or greater
intensity level physical activity, at least 5 days per week. Participation in physical activity decreased in higher
grades. Only 28% of Grade 7 boys and 13% of Grade 7 girls met this standard. Only 5% of Grade 11 boys and
less than 1% of Grade 11 girls met the standard.
•Girls and boys in grades 7 and 11 were sedentary over half of the time during data collection, with Grade 11
girls having the highest proportion of sedentary time (64%). The total amount of sedentary time increased with
the age of the children.
•Approximately 50% to 60% of boys and girls in grades 3, 7, and 11 indicated that they had an opportunity to
participate in an afterschool program that included physical activity or sports. However, far fewer children and
youth actually attended such a program at least 3 days a week (15% of boys and 20% of girls in Grade 3; 35%
of boys and 33% of girls in Grade 7; and 46% of boys and 25% of girls in Grade 11).
Nova Scotian Adults
According to the 2007 Canadian Community Health Survey, 49.2% of Nova Scotians reported being active or
moderately active. This number is significantly less than the national 52.3% who self-reported being active or
moderately active. Note: it is important to keep in mind that studies have shown that participants self-report
more physical activity and less sedentary time compared to direct measures (such as accelerometers).2, 13
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Quick Facts
Sports help kids ‘step it up’:
Canadian children who participate in
organized physical activities or sports take, on
average, almost 1,500 more steps per day than
children who do not participate in these types
of activities.3
Outdoor play in children is on the decline:
The proportion of Canadian kids who play
outside after school has dropped 14% over the
last decade.1
Physical inactivity is a global issue:
Globally, 6% of deaths are attributed to
physical inactivity. This follows high blood
pressure at 13%, tobacco use at 9% and is
equal to high blood glucose at 6%.47
There is strength in numbers:
The Department of Kinesiology at Indiana
University found that couples who went to the
gym separately had a 43% dropout rate, while
those who went to the gym together had only
a 6.3% dropout rate.28
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Known as the “Highland Heart of Nova Scotia”, the picturesque Town of Antigonish boasts a strong, vibrant
and stable downtown business community, serving as a regional service centre for the surrounding
Guysborough and Antigonish Counties. Incorporated in 1889, the Town takes pride in its rich history, heritage
and culture and is home to many festivals and celebrations, including the world-famous Highland Games.
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Community Profile
The municipality of the Town of Antigonish delivers a wide range of outstanding services to over 4,500
permanent residents and an additional 5,000 students attending St. Francis University, one of Canada’s premier
undergraduate universities. Municipally provided services include electricity, water, sewer, by-law
enforcement, planning, engineering, recreation and waste management. As a responsible order of government
accountable to the people, the staff of Town Office take a leadership role in improving the quality of life for
town residents, enhancing health and safety, and providing a welcoming environment for visitors.38
Demographics10,18,45,36
Variable
Permanent resident population in 2011
Population change from 2006 to 2011
Gender distribution
St. Francis Xavier student population in 2011
Age distribution (0-18, 19-34, 35-54, 55-64, 65+)
Immigrant count
Land area
Population density per square km
Average number of persons in private households
Individual income before taxes (median, average)
Household income before taxes (median, average)
Percentage of population considered low income
Population (over 15 years) with post-secondary education,
certificate, diploma or degree
Employment rate (over 15 years)
Unemployment rate (over 15 years)
Data
4524 residents
+6.8%
2035 males, 2490 females
5,127 students
725, 1220, 990, 610, 985
375
5.15 km2
878.4 residents/km2 (not including St. FX students)
2.1 persons
$26,913, $36,445
$79,937, $92,879
20.4%
54.2%
58.3%
10.4%
Linking Existing Town Plans and Physical Activity
The following points taken from the Town of Antigonish Strategic Plan and Integrated Community Sustainability Plan are
directly linked to active living and increased physical activity in the Town of Antigonish.
Town of Antigonish Strategic Plan (2011-2016)
Integrated Community Sustainability Plan (2010)
•Interdepartmental co-operation to encourage active
living and active transportation.
•Increase youth engagement through developing
youth recreation options and areas.
•Make the Town a tourist destination, more exciting for •Lower the carbon footprint of Antigonish .
youth, and family-friendly.
•Promote active lifestyles, a social environment and
•Foster optimal use of vacant / underutilized lands.
healthy outdoor living
•Complete an open/green space strategy.
•All public facilities should be accessible.
•Increase access to the Town’s recreation programs
for under-privileged individuals.
•Maintain and protect a variety of public open spaces
for current and future generations
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Getting Active in Antigonish
Physical activity is an vital piece of the health and happiness of any community. To ensure our citizens are
benefitting maximally from active lifestyles, we must be able to answer the following questions:
Question #1:
The Current State
How active are the citizens of the Town of Antigonish?
What social and physical assets in the Town support physical activity?
What physical activities do the citizens in the Town of Antigonish currently pursue?
Question #2:
Hopes for the Future
What physical activities do the citizens in the Town of Antigonish want to pursue?
What do the citizens of the Town of Antigonish think would help them pursue those activities?
Question #3:
Challenges
What challenges do the citizens of the Town of Antigonish face in getting physically active?
Question #4:
Overcoming Challenges to Being Physically Active
How will the Town of Antigonish overcome challenges to being physically active?
Ch
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Intervention
Current State
s
Where we want to be
Intervention
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Intervention
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Intervention
Figure 2. The Town of Antigonish
Logo provides a visualization tool
to
represent
how
strategic
interventions can help the citizens
of the Town of Antigonish to move
from their current state of physical
activity, to a more active future by
overcoming challenges they face.
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The Current State
How active are the citizens of the Town of Antigonish?
The 2014 Antigonish Physical Activity Community Survey gathered self-reported data from 227
respondents through a telephone survey. Results of this survey indicated that 1 in 3 citizens
(35%) were moderately physically active for at least 30 minutes at least 5 days/week. It should
be noted that it other research, self-report methods been shown to significantly overestimate
actual physical activity levels. With only 35% of Antigonish citizens self-reporting they met
Canadian physical activity guidelines, it appears that interventions to increase physical activity
levels are warranted in the Town.
This is not the only evidence to suggest that Antigonish citizens may need more support in living physically
active lifestyles. In the 2007 Canadian Community Health Survey, citizens who resided within the area served
by the former Guysborough Antigonish Strait Health Authority reported the lowest physical activity levels
among all Nova Scotia Health Authorities. Only 40.2% of respondents self-reported that they were moderately
active, which was significantly lower than the Nova Scotian (49.2%) and Canadian (52.3%) averages.
Children under the age of 12 were not included in either the Antigonish Physical Activity Community Survey
or the Canadian Community Health Survey, thus it is assumed that activity levels of Antigonish children under
12 are generally represented in provincial data.
Supportive assets in the Town’s social and physical environments
The Town of Antigonish has many assets, both social and physical, that support active living. These include a
Recreation Department among the Town’s municipal service departments, playing fields, parks, trails,
educational institutions, sport organizations, physical activity-oriented businesses and not-for-profit groups
and much more. A full list of existing assets can be found in Appendix 1.
Figure 3. With tennis courts, a soccer field, a
playground, paths, and green spaces, Columbus
field (shown left) is a popular place for the
citizens of the Town of Antigonish to get
physically active.
The Columbus Field property is host to a small
wooded area and borders West River which
provides great access to nature in the heart of
downtown Antigonish.
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What physical activities do the citizens in the Town of Antigonish
currently pursue?
Antigonish Adults
The results of the Antigonish Physical Activity Community Survey of 2014 along with a series of focus
groups suggested the top choices for physically active pursuits among Antigonish adults were:
Physically active household tasks
Walking
(more popular with older citizens and women)
Home exercise
Strength or weight training
Swimming
Dancing
Running or jogging
(more popular with younger citizens)
Skating
(more popular with younger citizens and women)
Bicycling
Snowshoeing
Fitness classes were also popular among older populations (60+)
Figure 4. Physically active household tasks were among the
top activities that Antigonish adults said they did to get active.
Some may not think of raking leaves as a physical activity,
but it can be a great way to improve cardiovascular health and
work large muscle groups such as back, shoulders, arms, and
legs.
Antigonish Children and Youth
A series of focus groups and informal surveys with Antigonish children and youth indicated their top choices
for physically active pursuits were:
Biking
Swimming
Skating
Individual/Team Sports
Playground
(mentioned more among younger children)
Running/Jogging
(mentioned more among older youth)
Sledding
Dancing
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Hopes for the Future
What physical activities do the citizens in the Town of
Antigonish want to pursue?
Antigonish Adults
Results from the ‘Antigonish Physical Activity Community Survey’ suggested Antigonish adults would like to
take part in the following activities more frequently:
Swimming
Walking (increased interest with age of citizens)
Bicycling (citizens aged 40-59 were most interested)
Snowshoeing
Downhill skiing/snowboarding
(citizens aged 18-39 were most interested)
Skating
Yoga or Pilates
Cross country skiing
Aerobics or fitness classes
Dancing
Antigonish Children and Youth
Focus groups with Antigonish children and youth suggested that they would like to take part in the following
activities more frequently:
Swimming
Canoeing
Kayaking
Biking
Dancing
Skiing
Skateboarding
Skating
Individual/team sports
Running/jogging
Skipping
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What do the citizens of the Town of Antigonish think would help them
pursue those activities?
The Antigonish Physical Activity Survey asked respondents to rank the degree to which specific concepts
would increase their participation in physically active pursuits. The following were top-ranked concepts:
Having a local contact person in the recreation office to link people to opportunities for physical activity
More non-competitive recreational opportunities
More programs for children with separate programming for parents nearby at the same time
More programs that involve parents and children together
Workplace-based physical activity groups or networks
More family-friendly spaces to participate
More drop-in sport and recreation opportunities
More common spaces to meet friends for activities in the community
Community physical activity champions who volunteer to help bring people together to be active
Figure 5. Workplace-based physical
activity groups are something that the
citizens of Antigonish would like to see
more of in the future.
Workplace wellness initiatives give
employees a chance to integrate physical
activity into their day, while building
relationships with co-workers.
By providing employees with wellness
opportunities in the workplace, employers
can also see benefits through improved
employee job satisfaction and retention
rates.25
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Challenges
What challenges do the citizens of the Town of Antigonish face in
getting physically active?
Information gathered from the Antigonish Physical Activity Survey, along with supplemental
information from focus groups, interviews, and informal surveys with Antigonish citizens,
revealed the following as barriers that stop Antigonish citizens form being physically active:
Note: The Antigonish Physical Activity Survey, at 95% confidence level has a potential sampling error of
±6.5% . This is considered an adequate sample size for interviewing a small community. Statistics in the
following tables are taken directly from survey results.
Individual Challenges
Physical restrictions
•Half of citizens reported having a health issue that restricts their ability to be active
•Some citizens have difficulty getting to physical activity opportunities due to mobility challenges
Lack of attitude/interest
•The physical activity programs available in the community are not of interest to 83% of citizens aged 18-39
•Physical activity is something 44% of 18-39 years olds said they do not enjoy
•Being physically active is not something of great value to 11% of citizens
Lack of required skills/instruction
•Over a third of citizens said they do not have the skills they need to be active in the ways they wish
•Almost a third of citizens said they do not have access to the coaching/instruction they want
Lack of awareness/education
•About 1-in-5 citizens said it is difficult to find information about local physically active opportunities
•Over half of citizens aged 18-39 said they would like to see local bicycle and walking/hiking maps
•Over one third of citizens said having a local contact person in the recreation office to link people to
opportunities for physical activity would be helpful in getting them more active
Figure 6. Almost a third of
citizens from the Town of
Antigonish said they do not
have
access
to
the
coaching/instruction they want.
Effective coaches can help
people learn new skills, stay
motivated,
and
improve
performance.
23
Social Environment Challenges
Lack of others with whom to be active
•62% of citizens feel they have no one with whom they can be active, and many would like to connect with
each other through avenues such as physical activity groups, community events, or social media
•Almost half of citizens said they feel Antigonish lacks family-friendly physical activity opportunities
•Almost a quarter of citizens would like more workplace physical activity groups (37% of men)
•One in five citizens said people that volunteer to help bring people together to be active would be helpful
Lack of time
•Over half of citizens have difficulty incorporating physical activity into their daily routines
•The physical activity programs in Antigonish do not work well for 45% of citizens’ schedules
•Citizens said a lack of family-friendly physical activity opportunities makes getting active harder for parents
•Almost a quarter of citizens would like more workplace physical activity groups (37% of men)
•Citizens would like to see more drop-in sport and recreation opportunities
Lack of security
•Half of citizens would not feel safe riding a bicycle in Antigonish
•Some citizens (28%) would not feel emotionally safe using Antigonish’s sport/recreation facilities
•Some citizens (7%) would not feel physically safe using Antigonish’s sport/recreation facilities
•Some older citizens (13%) would not feel safe walking in this community
•About 1 in 5 women said they would like to see gender-specific opportunities like female drop-in swims
•About 1 in 3 citizens said better lighting would impact their decision to bicycle more often and 61% said it
would affect their decision to walk more often
•Less crime would impact the decision of 41% of those aged 40-59 to walk more often
•Citizens said they would like more non-competitive recreational opportunities
•Several citizens said they do not feel physically safe around those bicycling on sidewalks
High cost of being active
•Almost half of citizens cited cost (equipment, registration fees, child care) as a barrier to physical activity
•Some citizens said they cannot afford transportation costs to get to physically active opportunities
Language, cultural, and religious challenges
•A small percentage of citizens (5%) said the physical activity programs/services in Antigonish do not meet
their language and cultural needs, while 2% said the programs and services do not meet their religious needs.
Lack of transportation
•Over half of citizens aged 18-39 said a transit system to help them get to/from places to be active would
impact their decision to bicycle. About a third of citizens said this would impact their decision to walk.
24
Physical Environment Challenges
Walking Facility Challenges
•Citizens said there is a lack of/ poor maintenance of walking facilities (sidewalks, paths, trails, quiet streets)
•Access to showers would impact the decision to walk for 25% of citizens
•Crosswalks/pedestrian signals would have an impact on the decision of 64% of citizens to walk more often
•Roundabouts to improve traffic flow would have an impact on 19% of citizens’ decisions to walk more often
•Citizens said there is a lack of accessibility to public facilities, especially for those with mobility challenges
•Access to public indoor walking spaces would impact the decision of 49% citizens to walk more often
Bicycling Facility Challenges
•Citizens said there is a lack of/ poor maintenance of bicycling facilities (paths, lanes, racks, storage)
•Access to showers would impact the decision to bike for 36% of those aged 18-39.
•Roundabouts to improve traffic flow would have an impact on 16% of citizens’ decisions to bike more often
Other Recreational Facility Challenges
•Almost half of citizens said a nearby ski hill would be likely to increase their physical activity levels
•Over a third of citizens said an outdoor pool would be likely to increase their physical activity levels
•Younger citizens would like to see a skateboard park installed
•About 1 in 5 citizens would like to see more family-friendly spaces to participate in physical activity, as well
as more common spaces to meet friends for activities
•9% of citizens said recreation/sport facilities are not clean enough for them to want to use, while 8% said they
are not well-maintained enough
•Citizens said they feel there is a lack of accessibility to public facilities, especially for those with mobility
challenges
Weather
•Younger citizens, especially, cited weather as a deterrent to physical activity
Policy Challenges
Lack of policy to support active transportation
•55% of citizens aged 18-39 said that reduced traffic speed would impact their decision to bicycle more often
•A quarter of citizens said better animal control would affect their decision to walk more often
•57% of citizens said that better enforcement of road rules would impact their decision to walk more often
Other policy concerns
•Young citizens said that the length of recess and lunch breaks do not allow for time to get active
25
Overcoming Challenges to Being Physically Active
26
Defining Our Vision
What do the citizens of the Town of Antigonish imagine for the
future of active living?
Analysis of all physical activity input collected from Antigonish citizens revealed a common theme: leading a
physically active life is a choice that is not always easy in the Town of Antigonish. As stated in Thrive! A plan
for a healthier Nova Scotia, “the choices we make as individuals are shaped by the choices we have”. In
today’s society, a variety of complex social, physical, and political factors can make it easiest for individuals
to choose unhealthy over healthy options for themselves and their families.
To increase physical activity levels among citizens of the Town of Antigonish, and in turn have those citizens
reap the benefits that come with physical activity, the choice to be active needs to become easier than it is
currently. This notion is reflected in the vision for Active Living for which the Town of Antigonish and its
community partners will strive:
The Town of Antigonish is a community where active living is
the easy choice for those who visit, stay, work, and play.
The Town of Antigonish and its community partners will take guided action to reach this vision through use of
the strategic interventions laid out in this document. These interventions acknowledge the current level of
physical activity in Antigonish, as well as the assets the community has to offer.
Figure 7. The citizens of the
Town of Antigonish would like
to see the town become a
community where active living
is the easy choice.
27
Guiding Principles and Target Groups
In defining specific interventions to increase physical activity levels in the Town of Antigonish, it is important
to bear in mind a set of guiding principles by which those interventions will be directed, as well as target
groups within the greater population who will be the aim of particular interventions.
Guiding Principles15,31
Guiding principles represent a philosophy to guide the Physical Activity Strategy throughout its life as a
dynamic document. They will influence how choices are made as well as what choices are made. The
following guiding principles are based on those in the Town of Antigonish Strategic Plan, as well as those
encouraged by the Nova Scotia Department of Health and Wellness.
Sustainability
Strategy interventions will be sustainable and ensure social, environmental, cultural,
and economic integrity for present and future generations.
Leadership
Quality leadership is important in achieving strategic goals for community benefit.
Respect
The Town of Antigonish and its partners will uphold the principles of fairness, equity,
and inclusiveness while implementing the Strategy.
Communication
The Town of Antigonish and its partners will endeavour to be open, transparent, and
accountable while implementing the Strategy.
Social Well-being
The Town of Antigonish and its partners will promote interventions that foster the
health, safety, and security of the community.
Community Pride
The Town of Antigonish and its partners will celebrate the Town’s history,
multiculturalism, and quality of life while implementing the Strategy.
Volunteerism
The Town of Antigonish and its partners recognize the important contribution that
volunteers will make to the implementation of the Physical Activity Strategy.
Partnerships
Strategy implementation will involve strong, collaborative partnerships between the
Town of Antigonish and its partners.
Whole of municipal
government
Successful Strategy implementation will involve multiple municipal service
departments.
Comprehensive
The strategy will adopt a multi-faceted approach and address components such as:
individual knowledge, awareness, and skills, social and physical environments, and
policy development.
Community Involvement
Town of Antigonish citizens will be involved in the design, development, and delivery
of physical activity initiatives.
Evidence informed
The strategy will be knowledge-based and emphasize interventions that work.
Based on community assets
To the greatest extent possible, the strategy will rely on infrastructure, programs and
services currently in place. New initiatives will be closely aligned with existing ones.
Universal and targeted
population reach
Although the strategy will involve all Town of Antigonish residents, special attention
and resources will be directed to targeted populations.
Capacity building
Interventions that come from the strategy will strive to build the commitment, skills,
and knowledge of active community leaders and partners at all levels through learning
and training opportunities.
28
Target Groups
Target groups are specific groups of people who have been identified as the recipient of messaging or
interventions. For the Physical Activity Strategy the identified groups are those who are proven to be less
physically active than others. These groups will be given extra attention and resources, though the strategy is
meant to be a beneficial document for the whole community.
Children and Youth
The Keeping Pace surveillance study findings (2009-2010) revealed that a large proportion
of Grade 3 students (both boys and girls) achieved 60 minutes per day of moderate or
greater intensity level physical activity, at least 5 days per week. The number achieving
this standard decreased in higher grades, especially among females. The amount of time
spent being sedentary also increased with the age of the children.
Of those who took part in the study, over half said they had access to after school
programs that involved physical activity or sports, but far fewer actually took part in these
programs.
With this information in mind, strategy interventions will focus on increasing physical
activity participation for children and youth with special attention to teenage girls and with
a focus on the afterschool time period for all.
Older Adults
A significant percentage (21.8% ) of Antigonish’s population is aged 65 and over36.
Looking forward, as the end of the Town’s baby boomer generation becomes the older
adult of tomorrow, we can assume this percentage will increase.
An important factor in addressing the needs for this age group is the wide range of abilities
and limitations that exist in those over 65 years of age. Interventions for this age group
should include efforts to minimize the onset of frailty and loss of mobility.
Citizens aged 18-39 years
According to the 2011 census, over 32.3% of the citizens of the Town of Antigonish were
aged 18-39 years. A high percentage of adults in this age group cited time, social barriers,
and interest as challenges they faced in getting physically active. Interventions for this
group will focus predominately on addressing those challenges.
Citizens with low income
According to the Antigonish Community Physical Activity Survey, cost was a challenge to
participation in physical activity for almost half of Antigonish citizens. With such a high
percentage of the Town’s population citing this challenge, strategic interventions should
offer solutions to address it.
Citizens with different
abilities (both physical
and mental)
Antigonish is home to a large L’Arche Community, as well as CACL Antigonish. These
organizations support individuals with developmental disabilities. Focus groups and
interviews with citizens from the L’Arche Community revealed that both social and
physical barriers exist that obstruct true inclusivity in our community. Strategic
interventions will strive to increase inclusiveness of the physically active opportunities in
Antigonish.
29
Goals and Objectives
The Physical Activity Strategy includes the following Goals and Objectives. The Action Plans associated with
these Goals and Objectives are discussed in the next section of the report.
To increase support for the citizens of the Town of Antigonish to build the knowledge, attitudes, and
skills they need to pursue physically active lifestyles.
Objective 1A: To provide information that supports and motivates the citizens of the Town of Antigonish to
adopt physically active lifestyles.
Objective 1B: To support the citizens of the Town of Antigonish in feeling prepared with appropriate skills to
take part in the physically active pursuits they desire.
To provide a social environment in the Town of Antigonish that supports physically active lifestyles.
Objective 2A: To support the citizens of the Town of Antigonish in connecting with one another to pursue
physical activity.
Objective 2B: To expand opportunities for the citizens of the Town of Antigonish to take part in informal,
unstructured physical activity.
Objective 2C: To encourage and support increased access to formal, inclusive physical activity opportunities.
To provide a physical environment in the Town of Antigonish that supports physically active lifestyles.
Objective 3A: To increase support for walking and wheeling as a form of leisure and as a means to get from
place to place.
Objective 3B: To ensure that planning practices and policies support physical activity in the planning, design,
and development of the built environment.
Objective 3C: To maximize access to community facilities that could be used to support increased levels of
physical activity.
To ensure that there are adequate resources to implement the physical activity strategy and that it
remains effective over time.
Objective 4A: To build and secure the leadership, partnerships, and stable funding required to implement this
Objective 4B: To continually improve the Physical Activity Strategy through a cycle of research,
30
Action Steps
The tables in the following section outline priority action steps for implementation that fall under the strategic
goals and objectives. These actions have been identified as those which need to be undertaken in the next five
years in order to achieve the vision of a community where physical activity is the easy choice.
The Physical Activity Strategy will be overseen or carried out by Town Staff in partnership with other
government and non-government organizations. This document is for the whole community and, as such, will
require the active involvement of a wide range of stakeholders. Champions must emerge and play a significant
role in the implementation of the action steps by promoting them, identifying and encouraging others to play an
active role, and monitoring progress of the strategy.
Some of the community stakeholders and potential partners who have been identified are as follows:
Antigonish Arena
Antigonish Community Transit
(ACT)
Antigonish Highland Skateboard Association
(AHSA)
Antigonish Town and County Crime Prevention
(ATCCP)
Canadian Association for Community Living
(CACL)
Claymore Inn
Club 60
Community Links
Ecology Action Centre
(EAC)
Heart and Stroke Foundation
(HSF)
Kids First Family Resource Centre
(Kids First)
L’Arche
Municipality of the County of Antigonish
(COA)
Not-for-Profit Clubs and Organization
Nova Scotia Health Authority
(NSHA)
Nova Scotia Department of Energy
(DOE)
Nova Scotia Department of Health and Wellness
(DHW)
Pictou Antigonish Regional Library
(PARL)
Paddle Antigonish
Ski Antigonish
Positive Action for Keppoch
(PAK)
Royal Canadian Mounted Police
(RCMP)
Seniors Getting Involved Association
(SGIA)
St. Francis Xavier University
(STFX)
Strait Regional School Board
(SRSB)
Town of Antigonish
(TOA)
This list is expected to grow as the document evolves.
31
To increase support for the citizens of the Town of Antigonish to build the knowledge, attitudes, and
skills they need to pursue physically active lifestyles.
Communication strategies, streamlined information, and carefully planned partnerships will help inform,
educate, and motivate citizens of the Town of Antigonish to be physically active. Identification of gaps in skill
development opportunities, as well as identification and promotion of opportunities that do not require
advanced skills will help citizens feel more adequately equipped to pursue physically active lifestyles.
Objective 1A: To provide information that supports and motivates the citizens of the Town of Antigonish to
adopt physically active lifestyles.
Actions
Target groups Partners
•Establish communication strategies to reach diverse audiences, while All
being mindful of delivery preferences.
TOA, Local Media
•Facilitate the creation and dissemination of streamlined physical
activity resources. For example: physical activity maps, calendars
All
TOA
•Identify and promote educational materials for Active
Transportation.
All
TOA, EAC
•Expand the use of “prompts” in settings where they can be used
successfully to increase physical activity levels.
All
TOA
•Identify and promote physical activities that can be done safely and
enjoyably in the varying weather of Antigonish.
All
TOA
•Identify and promote novel activities to gain the attention of those
who do not find physical activity something of interest
Examples: Paddle boarding, bubble soccer, jokari.
Youth,
Young adults
TOA
•Ensure there are healthy living education sessions for older adults.
Older adults
TOA,ATCCP,
PARL, STFX,
NSHA, Club 60
•Identify key messages and piggyback them with existing campaigns. All
For example: Canadian Sport for Life, sedentary behavior risks.
TOA, DHW, Sport
NS, HSF
•Establish MPAL as “go to” person for connecting people to physical All
activity opportunities.
TOA
32
Objective 1B: To support the citizens of the Town of Antigonish in feeling prepared with appropriate skills to
take part in the physically active pursuits they desire.
Actions
Target groups Partners
•Assess the community for gaps in skill development opportunities
and create strategies to recruit, train, and retain quality community
leaders where needed. For example: Seniors fitness instructors.
All
TOA
•Identify and promote opportunities that do not require advanced
skills. For example: “Try-it” sessions, guided cross country ski tours.
All
TOA/Not-For-Profit
Organizations
33
To provide a social environment in the Town of Antigonish that supports physically active lifestyles.
Supportive social environments provide the chance for citizens to connect with one another, and to take part in
both informal and formal physical activity opportunities. Informal activities, family-friendly activities, and
workplace wellness initiatives will help citizens incorporate active living into their busy schedules.
Special emphasis will be placed on opportunities and solutions to challenges for identified target groups.
Community groups will be encouraged and supported in their efforts to create quality programming for citizens
of the Town of Antigonish.
Objective 2A: To support the citizens of the Town of Antigonish in connecting with one another to pursue
physical activity
Actions
Target Groups Partners
•Create and promote family–friendly physical activity opportunities.
Families
TOA, Kids First
•Share information, be available to assist, and celebrate those employers Working adults TOA, Local
who are interested in implementing workplace wellness initiatives.
Employers
•Create and promote mechanisms that link up individuals with common
interests. For example: Walking groups.
All
TOA, Not-forProfit
Organizations
•Incorporate physical activity into community special events. For
example: Canada Day.
All
TOA, Not-forProfit
Organizations
Objective 2B: To expand opportunities for the citizens of the Town of Antigonish to take part in informal,
unstructured physical activity.
Actions
Target Groups Partners
•Identify and promote outdoor opportunities for physical activity.
All
TOA, PAK,
Paddle/Ski
Antigonish
•Identify and promote physical activity opportunities that are noncompetitive and do not require registration or advanced skills
All
TOA/Not-forProfit
Organizations
•Develop and promote equipment-lending programs that encourage
physical activity opportunities. For example: Cross country ski loans.
All
TOA/PARL
34
Objective 2C: To encourage and support increased access to formal, inclusive physical activity opportunities.
Actions
Target groups
Partners
•Explore, recommend, and promote solutions to barriers related to
physical activity costs, childcare, transportation, and scheduling.
Citizens with
TOA, ACT,
low income, All Businesses, Local
Resource Centre
•Increase support for community groups in offering a variety of
programming for target groups, while avoiding duplication of existing
programs and services.
All
TOA, Not-ForProfit
Organizations
•Involve health care practitioners in linking people who have health
restrictions to appropriate physical activity opportunities.
Citizens with
different
abilities
TOA, Health Care
Professionals
•Create targeted programs to increase physical activity for children and
youth. For example: After school programming.
Children and
Youth
TOA, DHW,
DOE, Schools
Plus, SRSB
•Identify, recognize, and provide assistance to programs and
organizations that support activities for those with different abilities.
Encourage organizations to be known to include all abilities.
Citizens with
different
abilities
TOA, STFX, NotFor-Profit,
L’Arche, CACL
35
To provide a physical environment in the Town of Antigonish that supports physically active lifestyles.
Supportive physical environments provide citizens with access to safe and convenient natural and built
environments for exercise, play, and active transportation. Access to facilities that can be used for physical
activity will be increased through identification of underused facilities and construction of any new facilities
that are warranted. Advocacy and support for local organizations who wish to become physically accessible will
help those citizens with different abilities to access those facilities. Appropriate monitoring, evaluation,
research, and policy will ensure that our local infrastructure supports physically active lifestyles.
Objective 3A: To increase support for walking and wheeling as a form of leisure and as a means to get from
place to place.
Actions
Target Groups
Partners
•Adopt a formal Active Transportation policy for the Town of
Antigonish
All
TOA
•Improve and promote connected infrastructure for walking and
wheeling . For example: On and off road multiuse trails
All
TOA/ Trail
Groups
•Assess existing walking/wheeling infrastructure for maintenance and
safety concerns and make improvements where necessary
All
TOA
•Create campaigns and advocate for penalties around unlawful
behaviors such as biking on sidewalks, speeding, and lack of pet
control.
All
TOA/RCMP
Objective 3B: To ensure that planning practices and policies support physical activity in the planning, design,
and development of the built environment.
Actions
Target Groups
Partners
•Explore the feasibility of the “Complete Streets” concept as it applies
to the Town of Antigonish. Implement the concept if warranted.
All
TOA
•Ensure physical activity professionals participate in major planning
studies for the built environment to provide input that can maximize
opportunities for physical activity
All
TOA
•Develop a program for individuals, developers and businesses that
recognizes excellence in providing environments that support physical
activity.
All
TOA
36
Objective 3C: To maximize access to community facilities that could be used to support increased levels of
physical activity.
Actions
Target Groups
Partners
•Identify underused facilities for physical activity and explore possible
user groups/activities.
All
TOA
•Advocate for the accessibility of all public facilities and offer support
(through a research and advisory role) to local organizations who want
to become more accessible.
Citizens with
different abilities
TOA,
Community
Links, STFX
•Support and advocate for the establishment of downhill skiing at
Keppoch Mountain.
All
TOA, PAK,
COA
•Explore the feasibility of an outdoor rink and, if warranted, build one.
All
TOA
•Increase support for the construction of an ‘All Wheels’ Park.
Children and
Youth
TOA, COA,
AHSA
•Increase access to swimming and skating opportunities in the Town of
Antigonish.
All
TOA, DHW,
STFX.,
Claymore Inn,
Antigonish
Arena
•Maintain and, where necessary, make improvements to parks,
playgrounds, and fields.
All
TOA
37
To ensure that there are adequate resources to implement the physical activity strategy and that it
remains effective over time.
Community partnerships, stable funding, and continuous quality improvement are critical components to the
success of the Physical Activity Strategy. Through community consultation, research and regular updates to
Town Council and the Department of Health and Wellness, the Strategy will continually be monitored and
updated so that it can meet the needs of citizens now and in the future.
Objective 4A: To build and secure the leadership, partnerships, and stable funding required to implement this
long-term Physical Activity Strategy.
Actions
Target Groups
Partners
•Encourage and facilitate new partnerships and innovations with
cross sector community groups and agencies.
All
TOA
•Explore a variety of funding options for strategy implementation
including sponsorships and endowments.
All
TOA, DHW
Objective 4B: To continually improve the Physical Activity Strategy through a cycle of research,
implementation, monitoring, and evaluation.
Actions
Target Groups
Partners
•Review the physical activity strategy annually following
community consultations.
All
TOA
•Participate in the Antigonish Community Physical Activity
Survey every 5 years
All
TOA, DHW
•Update Town Council and the Department of Health and
Wellness annually on the progress of the Physical Activity
Strategy.
All
TOA, DHW
•Attend conferences, workshops, meetings, and other educational
gatherings to learn about best practices for increasing physical
activity in people who are inactive.
All
TOA
•Partner with local researchers such as St. F.X. students to
monitor intervention success.
All
TOA, STFX
38
Information, Interest, and Instruction
Active living is the
easy choice
t
en
nm
iro s
nv ge
l E llen
cia Cha
So
l
ua ges
d
i
iv llen
d
In ha
C
Capacity Building
and Continuous
Quality Improvement
Supportive Social
Environments
En Ph
Ch vir ysic
al onm al
len e
ge nt
s
es
l
icy
a
Ch
g
len
l
Po
Supportive Physical
Environments
Figure 8. The Town of Antigonish Physical Activity Strategy suggests actions in 4 goal areas to
move past challenges the citizens of the Town of Antigonish face in getting physically active.
Accomplishment of these actions will help Antigonish become a place where active living is the
easy choice for those who visit, stay, work, and play in it.
39
40
Appendix 1: Community Assets
The following is a list of local facilities, organizations, agencies, clubs, groups, and individuals that support
physical activity for citizens of the Town of Antigonish.
Recreation Departments
Town of Antigonish Recreation
•Special Events, Programming for Children, Youth, and Adults, Parks/Open Space Maintenance, Equipment Loan
Program
Antigonish County Recreation
•Special Events, Programming for Children, Youth, and Adults, Equipment Loan Program
Facilities
Universities
St. Francis Xavier University: Oland Centre/Keating Millennium Centre
•Swimming Pool, 2 Rinks, Indoor/Outdoor Walking Track, Outdoor Walking Trail, Turf Field, 2 Practice Fields, Wellness
Centre, Dance Studio, 2 Gymnasiums, Combat Room, Racquetball Courts, Squash Courts, Classrooms, Fitness Classes
Schools
Dr. John Hugh Gillis Regional High School
•Gymnasium, Classrooms, Cafeteria, Yoga room, Auditorium
Highland Academy of Learning
•Small green space.
Antigonish Education Centre
•Gymnasium, playground, green space, fields, multipurpose room
St. Andrew Junior School
•Gymnasium, playground, green space, fields, multipurpose room
Community Centres
John Paul Centre
Antigonish Legion
Club 60 Antigonish
Rinks
Antigonish Arena
•1 ice surface
St. Francis Xavier University: Oland Centre/Keating Millennium Centre
•2 ice surfaces
Fields/Courts
Central Turf Field
•One large field (football, soccer)
Regional Ball Fields
•1 Baseball, 1 Softball, 1 Mini
St. Francis Xavier University
•1 Turf field, 2 grass fields
Columbus Field
•1 Grass field, 2 tennis courts
Fire Halls
Antigonish Town Fire Hall
41
Parks/Playgrounds
Columbus Field
•1 Grass field, 1 Walking Trail, 1 Track, 2 Tennis Courts, 1 Playground, Several Large Green Spaces
Arbor Drive Playground
Colin H. Chisholm Park
Cairn Park
Claymore Inn
•1 Playground
Walking and Hiking Tracks/Trails
Antigonish Landing: Walking Trail
St. Francis Xavier University
•Indoor/Outdoor Walking Track, Outdoor Walking Trail
Columbus Field
•1 Track, 1 walking trail
Chisholm Park Trail
Bethany Contemplative Trails
Keppoch Mountain
Beaver Mountain Trails
Arisaig Provincial Park & Trails
Cape George Hiking Trails
Pools
St. Francis Xavier University: Oland Centre/Keating Millennium
•1 Indoor swimming Pool
Claymore Inn
•1 Indoor swimming pool
Other Facilities
Asana Yoga/Dance Studio
•Offers yoga (all ages), dance
Goodlife Fitness
•Gym, Group Fitness, Personal Training
Pictou Antigonish Regional Library
•Programs for tots, educational classes for adults, equipment loan (pedometers and GPS devices)
Sports and Physical Activity Organizations
Antigonish Highland Dancing Association
Antigonish Aikido
Antigonish Archery Association
Antigonish Badminton
Antigonish Bulldogs (Hockey)
Antigonish Celtics Soccer Club
Antigonish Creative Dance Association
Antigonish Golf and Country Club
Antigonish Guysborough Rural Fast-Pitch Softball
Antigonish Highland Skateboarding Association
42
Antigonish Kinsmen Minor Baseball
Antigonish Minor Basketball Association
Antigonish Minor Hockey Association
Antigonish Skating Club
Antigonish Stoirm Volleyball
Antigonish Town & County Minor Football
Antigonish Track Club
Antigonish Women's Hockey League
Coors Light Slo-Pitch Softball
Eastern Highlands Special Olympics
Maureen Fraser School of Dance
Over 30 Basketball
PHAST (Port Hawkesbury/Antigonish Swim Team)
Phee's Tae Kwon Do
Xavier Tae Kwon Do
Seniors Groups
Club 60 Antigonish
•Recreational activities including physically active pursuits for seniors.
Seniors Getting Involved Association
•Currently responsible for the 55+ Games which occur in June each year.
Other PA Related Groups
Antigonish Highland Runners
Antigonish Hiking and Biking Trails Association
Antigonish Late Bloomers (Running Group)
Antigonish Ride (Cycling)
Antigonish Trail Runners
Community Cardiovascular Hearts In Motion
Fresh Air Society
Paddle Antigonish
SKI Antigonish
Youth Organizations
Girls Guides of Canada
Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron
875 Antigonish Lions Air Cadet Squadron
Scouts Canada
285 Royal Canadian Army Cadet Core
43
Physical Activity Contacts
Eric Lumsden: Regional PA Coordinator, Department of Health and Wellness
Stephanie Spencer: Community Sport Development Coordinator, Sport NS
Claire MacLean: Heart and Stroke Representative
Kerry Copeland: Kids' Run Club Coordinator/Health Promotion Advisor
Other Community Groups
Antigonish Community Transit
Antigonish Farmers Market
Antigonish Garden Club
Antigonish/Guysborough Early Childhood Intervention Program
Antigonish Kinsmen
Antigonish Lion's Club
Antigonish Town and County Crime Prevention
Antigonish Visitor Information Centre
Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB)
Canadian Red Cross: Antigonish Office
Community Health Board
Family Services of Eastern Nova Scotia
Kids First Family Resource Centre
L'Arche Antigonish
Lindsay's Health Centre for Women
Sustainable Antigonish (Includes Fresh Air Society)
St. Martha's Regional Hospital Auxiliary
The Casket
The Highland Heart
VON Antigonish Volunteer Programs
Wishing Well Society
XFM Radio Station
101.5 The Hawk Radio Station
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Appendix 2: Bibliography
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Children and Youth. Toronto: Active Healthy Kids Canada. Retrieved on Feb. 20 2015 from: http://www.participaction.com/wpcontent/uploads/2013/10/LEARN-THE-FACTS-Fast-Facts.pdf.
2) Adamo, K.B., Prince, S.A., Tricco, A.C., Gorber, S.C, and Tremblay, M. (2009). A comparison of indirect vs. direct measures for
assessing physical activity in the pediatric population: a systematic review. Retrieved on Jan. 28, 2015 from: http://
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18720173?dopt=Abstract&holding=f1000,f1000m,isrctn.
3) Canadian Fitness and Lifestyle Research Institute. 2011-12 CANPLAY. Bulletin 1: Physical activity levels of Canadian children
and youth. Ottawa: Canadian Fitness and Lifestyle Research Institute; 2013. Retrieved on Feb. 20 2015 from: www.cflri.ca/
node/1199.
4) Canadian Health Measures Survey (Feb. 2015). Canadian Health Measures Survey: Directly measured physical activity of Canadians, 2012 and 2013. Retrieved on Feb. 20, 2015 from: http://www.statcan.gc.ca/daily-quotidien/150218/dq150218c-eng.htm.
5) Canadian Health Measures Survey (Jan. 2011). Physical activity of youth and adults. Retrieved on Jan. 26, 2015 from: http://
www.statcan.gc.ca/daily-quotidien/110119/dq110119b-eng.htm.
6) Canadian Society of Exercise Physiology. Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines. Canadian Sedentary Behaviour Guidelines.
Retrieved on Jan. 21, 2015 from: http://www.csep.ca/CMFiles/Guidelines/CSEP_Guidelines_Handbook.pdf
7) Canadian Society of Exercise Physiology. Canadian Sedentary Behaviour Guidelines. Retrieved on Jan. 21, 2015 from: http://
www.csep.ca/CMFiles/Guidelines/SBGuidelinesQ&A_E.pdf.
8) Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (June 4, 2015). Measuring Physical Activity Intensity. Retrieved on Jan. 20, 2015 from:
http://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/everyone/measuring/.
9) Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (June 4, 2015). The Benefits of Physical Activity. Retrieved on Jan. 20, 2015 from:
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gnew=&table=&acctype=0&chartid=&mapid=&dcol=&sub=&ptype=geo&tid=&gview=3&glevel=com&yearid=2011&gnum=com
1407.
11) Department of Health: Australian Government. Australia’s Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour Guidelines: Tips and Ideas for Adults (18-64 years). Retrieved on Jan. 21, 2015 from: http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/healthpubhlth-strateg-phys-act-guidelines/$File/Tips&Ideas-Adults-18-64years.PDF.
12) Department of Sport and Recreation, Government of Western Australia. More than winning: The real value of sport and recreation in Western Austrailia. Retrieved on Jan. 21, 2015 from: http://www.dsr.wa.gov.au/docs/default-source/file-support-and-advice/
file-research-and-policies/more-than-winning.pdf?sfvrsn=0
13) Dyrstad, S.M., Hansen, B.H., Holme, I.M., Anderssen, S.A. (Jan. 2014). Comparison of self-reported versus accelerometermeasured physical activity. Retrieved on Jan. 28 2015 from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23793232.
14) Global Advocacy Council for Physical Activity (May 20, 2015). The Toronto Charter for Physical Activit: A Global Call to Action. Retrieved on Jan. 20, 2015 from: http://www.strathroycaradoc.ca/uploads/8/Doc_635224384584381068.pdf
15) International Institute of Business Analysis. IIBA guiding principles. Retrieved on Oct. 2, 2015 from: http://www.iiba.org/AboutIIBA/Guiding-Principles-and-Values.aspx.
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16) Klosowski, Thorin (Jan. 26, 2012). How sitting all day is damaging your body and how you can counteract it. Retrieved on Jan.
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17) Machado de Rezende, L.F., Rey-Lopex, J.P., Matsudo, V.K.R., and Luiz, O.C. (2014). Sedentary behaviour and health outcomes among older adults: a systematic review. Retrieved on Jan. 26, 2015 from: http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/826650.
18) Malhotra, K. (Feb. 2010). Town of Antigonish Integrated Community Sustainability Plan.
19) Mental Health Foundation. Exercise and Mental Health. Retrieved on Jan. 20, 2015 from: http://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/helpinformation/mental-health-a-z/E/exercise-mental-health/
20) Halifax Regional Municipality. Stepping Up: Physical Activity Strategy for the Halifax Region. 2009.
21) Municipality of the County of Kings. Physical Activity Strategy Draft. November 2014.
22) Municipality of the Town of Wolfville. Physical Activity Strategy. June 2013.
23) Nelson, Roxanne (Nov. 2014). Just taking breaks from being sedentary may benefit older adults. Retrieved on Jan. 21, 2015
from: http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/11/06/us-health-elderly-sedentary-breaks-idUSKBN0IQ2KU20141106.
24) New Zealand Ministry of Health (December 9, 2014). The dangers of inactivity and sedentary behavior. Retrieved on Jan. 21,
2015 from: http://www.health.govt.nz/your-health/healthy-living/food-and-physical-activity/physical-activity/dangers-inactivity-and
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25) Noelcke, Liz. Advantages of workplace wellness programs: A healthy fit for employers and employees. Retrieved on Oct. 15,
2015 from: http://www.sparkpeople.com/resource/wellness_articles.asp?id=246.
26) Nova Insights: Market Research and Consulting (Dec. 2014). Town of Antigonish Physical Activity Community Survey.
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novascotia.ca/dhw/publications/annual-statistical reports/CCHS_3_1_Summary_Report.pdf.
28) Perfect Gym Pal (March 2014). Gym partners benefits and statistics. Retrieved on Oct. 20 2015 from: http://perfectgympal.com/
gym-partners-benefits-statistics/.
29) President’s Council on Fitness, Sport, and Nutrition. Too Much Sitting: Health Risks of Sedentary Behaviour and Opportunities
for Change. Retrieved on Jan. 24, 2015 from: https://www.presidentschallenge.org/informed/digest/docs/201212digest.pdf.
30) Prince, S.A., Adamo, K.B., Hamel, M.E., Hardt, J., Gorber, S.C., Tremblay, M. (Nov. 2008). A comparison of direct vs. selfreport measures for assessing physical activity in adults: a systematic review. Retrieved on Jan. 28, 2015 from: http://
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31) Principles and Practices of Public Procurement. A collaborative review of proposed values, principles, and standards of practice
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33) Sardinha L.B., Santos D.A., Silva A.M., Baptista, F. and Owen, N. (Oct. 2014). Breaking-up sedentary time is associated with
physical function in older adults. Retrieved on Jan. 21, 2015 from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25324221.
34) Sedentary Behaviour Research Network (2015). What is sedentary behavior? Retrieved on Jan. 20, 2015 from: http://
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35) Skelton, Dawn: Institute of Allied Health Research, Glasgow Caledonian University. Do we sit too long? Retrieved on Jan. 21,
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36) Statistics Canada (2012). Census Profile: Antigonish Town and Antigonish County. Retrieved on Feb. 2 2015 from: http://
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41) Thrive! A plan for a healthier Nova Scotia. Government of Nova Scotia. (June 2012). Retrieved on Feb. 18 2015 from: https://
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43) Town of Antigonish Strategic Plan (2011-2016).
44) Ubelacker, Sheryl. The Canadian Press (Jan. 19, 2015). Sitting for too long can kill you, even if you exercise. Retrieved on Jan.
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