Sneaker Day: May 14

Nova Scotians are encouraged to take a walk on the wild side on Sneaker Day --this Friday, May 14 --to kick off SummerActive 99.

SummerActive runs from May 14 to June 11 and is designed to show Canadians the many benefits that come with being physically active. During SummerActive, more than 500 schools, communities, organizations and workplaces throughout the province will host fun, physically active opportunities that encourage people to participate and experience the joys of active living.

Studies show that more than two-thirds of all Canadian children and youth are not active enough to sustain good health, and more than 25 per cent of children aged five to 12 are considered overweight.

In keeping with a federal, provincial and territorial initiative to increase physical activity levels among Canadians by 10 per cent by the year 2003, the Nova Scotia Sport and Recreation Commission distributes SummerActive materials to all regions of the province, with a special focus on children and youth.

Community and organization representatives wishing to receive information about SummerActive 99 should contact the Sport and Recreation Commission at 902-424-7512.