GO2, a new active living initiative, encourages people to get moving. GO2 was launched today at Eau Claire Festival Market with special guests including Mayor Dave Bronconnier, Olympic bronze medalist Mellisa Hollingsworth-Richards, Scott Coe from the Calgary Stampeders and Rich Hasketh from the Calgary Flames.
The new GO2 campaign was designed to support and encourage Calgarians to get physically active. The current health trend states that 41 per cent of Calgarians are not physically active enough to receive health benefits (ACAL, 2005). The GO2 initiative advises that with at least 30 minutes of physical activity per day on most days of the week, Calgarians can achieve a healthier lifestyle.
“It is crucial for Calgarians to understand the importance of an active and healthy lifestyle,” said Mayor Dave Bronconnier. “The new GO2 initiative demonstrates how easy it can be to get active, whether it’s going for a short walk, taking a fitness class or simply going to the park. The City of Calgary along with our GO2 partners are proud be a part of this campaign and we are excited to promote GO2 and active living to all Calgarians.”
The GO2 initiative is a partnership of organizations. Steering Committee partners include the Calgary Health Region, The City of Calgary, YMCA Calgary, The University of Calgary, YWCA of Calgary, The Calgary Chamber of Commerce and The Calgary Children’s Initiative.
“On behalf of all the committee partners, we are excited to launch this new campaign and look forward to seeing the difference increased physical activity can make to all residents living in Calgary and the surrounding region,” said Marjorie Ricketts, Calgary Health Region board member. “The campaign has come a long way from when it was just an idea more than two years ago. Seeing it come to life is truly exciting, and to have committee members come together to support such an important initiative is great for this thriving community.”
“Every single person, young and old, can benefit from physical activity,” said Mellisa Hollingsworth-Richards, Olympic Bronze Medalist and GO2 special guest. “It is necessary to emphasize the importance of living an active and healthy lifestyle. Being active doesn’t have to be running a marathon or climbing a mountain. Going for a short walk around your neighbourhood or spending the day at the pool with your kids are great ways to be active. The new GO2 initiative is a great way to showcase a variety of activities and encourage a healthy lifestyle.”
Calgarians were invited to Eau Claire Festival Market today where they watched the GO2 Challenge which showcased a variety of activities designed for active living. They also attended the GO2 Active Living Fair where GO2 partners displayed various informational pieces including where Calgarians can “GO2” for physical activity.
