In this article, the author notes that our modern-day, sedentary lifestyle is contributing to high rates of chronic disease among all Canadians, including obesity, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, which are occurring more frequently than ever before.
For Aboriginal people in Canada, the rates of chronic disease are drastically higher than for non-Aboriginal people. The author suggests there is a strong need to reframe physical activity programs targeted at Aboriginal people because, according to the Canadian Diabetes Association, they are 3–5 times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes. In addition, research shows that Aboriginal adults and children experience a significantly higher incidence of obesity than non-Aboriginal people.
The author offers insights about the importance of cultural awareness and presents several recommendations to help active living practitioners successfully promote physical activity programs to Aboriginal groups or communities.
This WellSpring covers the following topics:
The Issue: Culturally Relevant Physical Activity Programs for Aboriginal people in Canada
