Movement as Medicine: How Victoria Promotes Physical Activity

In Victoria, Canada, a growing emphasis on physical activity is reshaping community health initiatives. With 41.5 percent of adults aged 18-64 not meeting the recommended 150 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity each week, experts are advocating for movement as a critical component of preventive health. Notably, those who engage in regular exercise experience a variety of benefits, including improved mood, increased energy levels, and better bone health.

Understanding the Health Benefits of Movement

The consequences of inactivity can be severe, leading to higher risks of mortality, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression. Jean Buckler, an associate professor of exercise science at the University of Victoria (UVic), emphasizes the importance of integrating movement into daily life. “Every opportunity to try and learn other ways we can move our bodies is super important,” Buckler stated. She advocates for a shift in how recreational activities are perceived, urging society to view them as essential components of health and wellness.

In line with this philosophy, facilities such as Studio 4 in downtown Victoria are creating inviting spaces for physical activity. Co-owners Kevin Brett and Darcy Dommett opened the gym in 2004 with a vision to foster a community-oriented environment. “You can have a set of weights anywhere, but if someone’s trying to integrate that into their lifestyle, it’s really helpful if they actually want to be there,” Brett explained.

Creating an Inviting Atmosphere for Fitness

Studio 4, located in a heritage building dating back to 1886, features a variety of exercise spaces designed to accommodate both beginners and seasoned athletes. The facility spans 12,000 square feet and includes dedicated areas for free weights, boxing, dancing, yoga, cardio, and group classes. The gym currently boasts around 2,500 members, many of whom attend four to five times a week, significantly exceeding national activity guidelines.

The gym’s design focuses on aesthetics and comfort, aiming to make exercise appealing rather than a chore. The use of natural light, exposed wood, and real plants—tended to weekly by Dommett—enhances the atmosphere. “Every single plant in here is real. It changes the energy of the room,” he noted. This thoughtful approach helps to dismantle the intimidating stereotypes often associated with traditional weightlifting environments.

To further their mission, Studio 4 aims to reach the estimated 59 percent of Canadian adults who do not meet physical activity guidelines. Dommett articulated their goal: “Our job—our mission—is to try and pull in some more of those and get them involved.” Buckler supports this aim, highlighting the significance of early and repeated exposure to physical activity to reduce intimidation and encourage participation.

Given Victoria’s stunning landscape, including trails and waterfront areas, residents have ample opportunities for outdoor activities beyond gym walls. “Our biggest competition isn’t any of the other gyms, it’s Dallas Road,” Brett remarked, emphasizing the community’s access to natural beauty and physical activity options.

As the message of health and wellness continues to gain traction, the importance of creating supportive environments for physical activity becomes increasingly clear. For specialists like Buckler and entrepreneurs like Brett and Dommett, the path forward is rooted in making movement a natural part of daily life, helping to ensure that more individuals reap the benefits of an active lifestyle.