This new meaning for fitness reflected changes in thinking about physical activity. They want more options that would link fitness to their daily living patterns with less emphasis on counting repetitions and measuring heart rate. Following the summit conference, a process began that involved the Canadian fitness community in the development of a new vision and a concept to respond to this changing perspective. The document describes active living as a way of life in which physical activity is valued and integrated into daily life. The nature, form, frequency and intensity of the activity are relative to each person s ability, needs, aspirations and environment.
Active living encompasses the entire experience of physical activity.
It integrates the physical or bodily movement aspect of physical activity with its mental, emotional, social and spiritual dimensions. Active living focuses on the relevance of physical activity in daily life. How and why people are involved in daily physical activity is affected by daily schedules, environment, interactions with others, economic and social status, past experiences, changing life situations, existing social norms and values, and opinions of what constitutes a good life. Active living is about individual well-being. This principle supports individual empowerment and the right of individuals to make choices and participate in collective decisions affecting how they may wish to live actively.