Why these Guidelines are important

Welcome to the CSEP Guidelines information hub, featuring the latest updates and resources for the Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines: An Integration of Physical Activity, Sedentary Behaviour, and Sleep.

Physical activity is a foundation for a healthy lifestyle. Yet increasingly we are seeing that Canadians of all ages are choosing sedentary activities over active ones. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, with the right balance of physical activity and rest, plays an important role in Canadians’ overall health, well-being, and quality of life, regardless of age.

Evidence shows that sleep, sedentary behaviour and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) are associated with improving risk for chronic disease. More recently, light physical activity (LPA) consistent activities of daily living, has also been shown to have a positive effect on health.

Because an increase in the amount of time spent in any one of these movement-related behaviours that comprise a 24-hour day will change the amount of time spent in another, emerging research has considered how they may interact to influence health. These time-use factors have highlighted the importance of all movement behaviours across the whole day (24-hour period).

Canada has developed 24-Hour Movement Guidelines, providing guidance on the optimal amount of physical activity, sedentary behaviour, and sleep – and the best combination of these behaviours – for Canadians of all ages.