Manitoba encourages young adults to keep active with new initiative
The province says it's an initiative to keep youth healthy, but will those habits stick upon graduation?
Manitoba has introduced a new health curriculum to encourage young adults to maintain an active lifestyle, as part of a two-year pilot program. Beginning in the 2027-2028 school year, students in grades 11 and 12 will be required to complete 110 hours of in-person physical education classes. This initiative aims to keep youth healthy, but researchers warn that the benefits may not last after high school.
A study from the University of Michigan found a "cliff effect" in physical activity after students leave structured opportunities like school teams or classes. Parental surveys revealed that 57% of parents expressed a lack of interest in physical education, while 31% attributed the decline in activity to screen time and gaming. Sarah Clark, co-director of the C.S.
Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health, notes that high school years can set the foundation for adult years, and the opportunities available during that time can disappear for young adults.
Manitoba's new program seeks to address this transition by educating students about the mental health impacts of screen time and marketing tactics used by vape companies. The YMCA of Winnipeg emphasizes that there are various recreational options available in their facilities and across the city, catering to individuals seeking non-competitive and intimidating environments.
By fostering community engagement in physical activities, the province hopes to help young adults maintain their active lifestyles beyond their high school years.
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