Help Ottawa become Canada’s Most Active Community in June

Ottawa is an active community. In the winter, people are skiing, cross-country skiing and skating on the Rideau Canal. We see it every season, from spring to fall, people are running along the canal and cycling along our many bike paths and taking part in the Weekend Bikedays. This June, it’s time to prove to the nation we are the most active community. Ottawa is marking National Health and Fitness Day on Saturday, June 7, with a full month of activities tied to the ParticipACTION Community Challenge—a national campaign running from June 1 to 30 to find Canada’s Most Active Community. The winning community will receive $100,000 to support local physical activity and sport programs. Participation is open to both individuals and organizations, with each playing a different role in helping Ottawa climb the national leaderboard. As an individual Residents can contribute by pledging to get active through the ParticipACTION website. After pledging, participants will receive a welcome email with ideas and resources to stay active throughout the month. Individuals are also encouraged to share the challenge with local organizations that offer or participate in sport and fitness programming to help increase community involvement. As an organization Organizations can register on the ParticipACTION Community Challenge portal at any time before June 30. Once signed up, they can list any physical activity programs, initiatives, or events taking place in June and track the number of participants involved. Each time participation is logged, the organization is entered into a draw for one of fifteen $500 cash prizes. The more people an organization tracks, the more it contributes to Ottawa’s total—and the better the city’s chances of winning the national title and $100,000 grand prize. Get involved all month long There are many ways to take part throughout June:

• Free virtual Zumba
• Free virtual ParticipACTION fitness classes
• Free drop-in recreation and sports for children and youth at City facilities
• A free fitness pass with three visits to City fitness centres, group classes, pools and rinks
• Yoga and pilates at Lansdowne Park and City Hall
• Drop-in swimming, sports and fitness programs
• Ottawa’s outdoor spaces
• The Capital Pathway network

Every pledge and tracked participant between June 1 and 30 helps bring Ottawa closer to being named Canada’s Most Active Community. When you are participating, you're contributing to a stronger, healthier, and more active Ottawa—this June and beyond. Come on Ottawa, let’s get into ParticipACTION.