Canadian physical activity guidelines recommend that children get at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous exercise every day but only seven per cent get the required amount.

In the week leading up to, and including Nov. 29, communities across the country will participate in Sports Day, a national celebration of sport at all levels, from beginner to Olympic athletes. Events such as wear-your-jersey days, tournaments, training sessions, and athlete meet-and-greets will be hosted by local schools, clubs and community organizations. Hundreds of events have been registered on the Sports Day website, including several in the Montreal area.

These include the Vanier Cup football event, as well as athlete school visits, a jersey day and other activities hosted by the Canadian Interuniversity Sport organization. Across the province, communities are organizing judo training days, dance competitions, fitness days and open hockey tournaments.

Groups who list their activities on the website receive free promotional materials and event tools provided by the sponsors, which include RBC, CBC and participACTION.

A Brossard-based youth organization called Maison de Jeunes l’Escalier en mon temps is covering the transportation and admission fees for a group of their young members to enjoy an evening of skating at the Old Port.  Co-ordinator Marilyne Robert said that the group has received funding from participACTION before, and is eager to join in anything that encourages young people to get out and move.

To find out what’s happening in your neighborhood, visit sportsday.cbc.ca.