Join the rest of the world and become a "physically active citizen" Monday, April 6 in honor of "World Day for Physical Activity".  This campaign to promote physical activity is facilitated by the Agita Mundo Network, a division under the Brazil-based organization, Centro de Estudos do Laboratorio de Aptidao Fisica de Sao Caetano do Sul (CELAFISCS).  According to the Agita Mundo Network's website, www.agitamundo.org, more than 6,000 events celebrating "World Day for Physical Activity" occurred around the world last year.  

     In February of this year, the American College of Sports Medicine (www.acsm.org) announced its partnership with CELAFISCS to advance international health and fitness.  This press release stated that in past events there were more than one million participants honoring the campaign.

     The theme this year focuses on "active neighborhoods building health".  According to both organizations, a "physically active citizen" is an individual who commits to adopting physical activity into their lifestyle that is both economically and ecologically responsible.  The organizations suggest using walking as the primary mode of transportation as often as possible.

     How can you celebrate "World Day for Physical Activity"on Monday, April 6th?  Designate the day as a "car free" day and walk or ride your bike to your destinations.  Or, organize a lunchtime walk with co-workers, neighbors, friends and/or family members.  Be creative.  Your celebration can even be on a small scale as long as it incorporates additional physical activity into your daily life.

Note:  Before beginning an exercise program or increasing the intensity level of a current routine, a physician's approval should be obtained, especially for older adults and those at risk for or who currently have chronic health conditions.