This new meaning for fitness reflected changes in thinking about physical activity. They wanted 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 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. Active living is a concept describing a way of life that values physical activity as an essential part of daily life.
Active living places physical activity within a broader perspective of total fitness or well-being.
The nature, form, frequency and intensity of physical activity is relative to each person's ability, needs, aspirations and environment. The concept goes beyond the physiological aspects of physical activity to encompass the mental, emotional, spiritual, and social dimensions that make up the entire physical activity experience. It is an integrated way of living . The unique learning opportunities in physical education allow all students from Kindergarten to grade 12 to acquire the knowledge, skills, and attitudes that enable them to enhance their quality of life through active living - a way of life that is characterized by the integration of physical activity into daily routines and leisure pursuits. This physical education program emphasizes active living through participation in a balanced variety of movement experiences within and outside of physical education classes.