Cold, dark and snowy weather certainly has an impact on how active we are during the winter months in Manitoba. Physical activity can even seem like more of a challenge for some in the winter with the need for extra clothing, light, and space.

Healthy Living Facilitator Maureen Owens with Southern Health-Santé Sud says we know four out of five people don't meet the Canadian physical activity guidelines.

"In the past getting enough physical activity during the day was not difficult to do, because our work and home chores were much more physically demanding," says Owens.

Owens also notes one of the best strategies is to merge physical activity into one's lifestyle, looking at our built environment where we work, play, and have recreation.

Examples of built environment physical activity would include things like walking to work instead of driving, having a standing desk, standing during a meeting or conference call whenever it's appropriate, and taking the stairs instead of the elevator.

"We need to encourage our municipalities to plow the sidewalks and offer the best light possible. That increases the neighbourhood's ability to get enough physical activity," add Owens.

Owens explains when physical activity is built into our everyday lives at work and home it is much easier to get, instead of saying you are going to try and start a work-out routine when you do not have time in your everyday life.