BUSINESS - Workplace Activity Program Launches in BC before National Rollout

A program to get workers up and moving while on the job is rolling out in British Columbia and will implemented across Canada by fall.

UPnGO with ParticipACTION was launched Monday by federal Health Minister Jane Philpott, B.C.'s Minister of Health Terry Lake and Elio Antunes, president and CEO of ParticipACTION.

A wellness program that uses a digital platform and app to set weekly challenges and personalized goals, it is designed to help participants understand and overcome common barriers and reward them for being more active.

Participants receive points redeemable online for health products if they meet personal goals and complete set challenges.

"Canadians know that being active is crucial to maintaining a healthy lifestyle – yet so many of us struggle to the find time to exercise,” said the Honourable Jane Philpott, Minister of Health. “Through innovative partnerships like this one, we're delivering projects across the country that create environments where the healthier choice is the easier choice."

Funding includes $2.5 million over three years from the Public Health Agency of Canada while B.C.'s Provincial Health Services Authority will allocate $3.8 million over the same period.

Studies show benefits of workplace physical activity include increased productivity, creativity and job performance.

ParticipACTION is a national non-profit organization whose mission is to help Canadians sit less and move more. Originally established in 1971, ParticipACTION works with its partners, which include sport, physical activity, recreation organizations, government and corporate sponsors, to make physical activity a vital part of everyday life.