January to be active month

January will be In Motion Month in Yorkton following a unanimous decision by City Council at its regular meeting Monday.

"Yorkton`s 2020 Strategic Plan identifies building a healthy community encouraging healthy lifestyles and personal wellness as one of the community`s goals. Also included in the plan is a community development goal that refers to providing social, recreational and educational opportunities for all community members," explained Darcy McLeod, Director of community Development, Parks and Recreation with the City.

McLeod said In Motion fits the community goal well.

"Saskatchewan In motion is a province-wide movement aimed at increasing physical activity for health, social, economic and environmental benefits. Simply pit it encourages people to move more. The In motion brand is well recognized across the province and the City partners with them to promote the benefits of being physically active to the citizens of Yorkton," he said.

However, promoting physical activity only works if people become involved.

"Promoting the benefits of being physically active is one thing, but actually getting people to be physically active is another. What better time of year to support and encourage people to become more physically active than January when New Year`s resolutions are discussed that most likely include being healthier," he said.

"Designating January as In motion month in the City of Yorkton will create awareness of the issues that are caused from being physically inactive and provide opportunities for people to become more physically active."

A number of events are scheduled for the month, including;

Jan. 2 - 31, Free Walking at the Gloria Hayden Community Centre

Jan. 2 - 31, Buy One Get One Free (BOGO) Racquet Courts (When one person pays for a racquet court booking, a 2nd person can participate for free) at the Gloria Hayden Community Centre

Jan. 7, Free Family Fun at the Gloria Hayden Community Centre from 1-3 p.m.

Jan. 11, Active Living Community Champion Luncheon (to be confirmed)

Jan. 11, Push 2 Play presentations at two schools (schools yet to be confirmed)

Jan. 15, Winter Welcome Toboggan Party at Knights of Columbus Park

Jan. 28, Free Family Fun at the Gloria Hayden Community Centre from 1-3 p.m.

McLeod said the costs for the programming will be limited.

"Taking all expenses and revenue into account, the estimated budget impact for this initiative will be approximately $850. The programs at the Gloria Hayden Community Centre include waiving fees that Council approved therefore Council approval is also required when waiving those fees. The Community Development, Parks and Recreation Committee reviewed this initiative at their November 15, 2011 meeting and have recommended that Council provide their approval," he said.