Province launches physical activity strategy aimed at getting New Brunswick moving

Press Release

February 24, 2026

GRAND FALLS  – The government has launched a strategy and action plan aimed at increasing physical activity.

The focus is on encouraging movement, reducing sedentary behaviour and supporting health and quality of life across the province.

“Movement is for everyone – every age, every ability, everywhere,” said Tourism, Heritage and Culture Minister Isabelle Thériault. “Being active isn’t limited to organized sports and recreational activities; it’s the small, joyful moments that make a difference, like a morning walk, gardening, a quick stretch at your desk, or even dancing in the kitchen.”

The strategy and action plan – called Let’s Get Moving New Brunswick! – were developed in collaboration with a range of partners, including health and community organizations, educators, researchers, local governments and First Nations communities.

“Regular physical activity can lower stress, lift moods and help people feel more connected to others,” said Justice Minister Robert McKee, who is also minister responsible for addictions and mental health services. “By working together to put this plan into action, we can support healthier lifestyles, reduce stress and social isolation, and build a stronger, more active province.”

The strategy has five key principles:

• Supporting movement for every age and stage of life: recognizing that physical activity varies throughout one’s lifespan.

• Building physical literacy: creating the building blocks for an active life by helping people gain the skills, confidence and motivation to be active.

• Working together to benefit everyone: fostering collaboration across sectors, communities and organizations.

• Making decisions with reliable information: using evidence, lived experience and innovation to guide action.

• Advancing equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility for all: ensuring that everyone has fair and meaningful opportunities to be active.

According to Statistics Canada, just over one-third of New Brunswick youth get the recommended 60 minutes per day of moderate to vigorous physical activity, and roughly half of adults reach the minimum weekly guideline of 150 minutes. This places New Brunswick ninth in Canada, and below the national averages.

“This strategy is a step in the right direction to help our province embrace meaningful opportunities to move,” said Dr. Julie Castonguay, who serves on the New Brunswick Medical Society’s board of directors. “It supports healthy habits by encouraging all New Brunswickers to make physical activity a natural, enjoyable and accessible part of their daily lives.”

A website has been launched to support the strategy’s implementation and long-term success. It provides organizations, communities and residents with access to resources, programs and tips designed to help increase daily movement.

Related links

Let’s Get Moving New Brunswick! – the physical activity strategy and action plan

Media Contact(s)

Jessica Hearn, communications, Department of Tourism, Heritage and Culture, jessica.hearn@gnb.ca.

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