Becoming active occurs in stages, with steps forward and steps backward. In the normal course of things, people adopt physical activity, maintain it for a while, stop it and readopt it over time. Depending on where you are, different strategies can help you to become more active.

Determine where you stand personally by checking the statement below that best describes your current physical activity pattern.

I am not currently active, I have not done any activity for a long time, and I have no intention of becoming active in the near future.
Right now, you're in a stage of precontemplation. Individuals in this stage sometimes report difficulties such as an illness or an injury as a barrier to participation. According to the 1995 Physical Activity Monitor, conducted by the Canadian Fitness and Lifestyle Research Institute, less than 2% of the Canadian population are at the precontemplation stage. Tip: Read up on the benefits of physical activity.

I am not currently active, I have not been active over the past 12 months, but I intend to be so in the foreseeable future.
You are currently in the contemplation stage. Only 4% of Canadians are contemplators. They are aware that being inactive is a problem and are seriously considering taking some steps to address the problem. Tip: Try substituting as many active behaviours to sedentary behaviours as you can. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Walk or bike for short errands. Play with the kids.

I was active at times during the last 12 months, I am no longer active, but I intend to resume physical activity in the future.
For the time being, you are in relapse from physical activity, along with 16% of Canadians. You are at greater risk of relapse if you are 25 to 44 years old and if you are a woman, perhaps because of family responsibilities. Tip: Plan how you can get around the obstacle that tripped you in the first place.

I have recently become active after a period of irregular or no activity over the past 12 months, and I intend to stay active.
You're on the way to developing a crucial health habit. You have lots of company: 42% of Canadians are in the action stage. Women are more likely than men to be in this stage. Tips: Seek and use the support of caring friends in your attempts toward exercise. If you miss a session, make a point of getting to the next one to regain your momentum.

I have been regularly active for the past 12 months, I am currently active, and I intend to stay active.
Congratulations! You have achieved a stable pattern of physical activity and are in the company of 34% of Canadians in the maintenance stage. Men and women are equally likely to be in this stage. Tips: Keep your activity program interesting by including a variety of activities. Lend a helping hand to those who need a gentle nudge to become regularly active.