What does active transportation mean? The Government of Canada describes active transportation as “using your own power to get from one place to another”. This can include walking, cycling, skateboarding, rollerblading, using a wheelchair, and more. When we make the decision to use an active way of travelling, we are also making the choice to also improve our own physical, mental, and emotional health, and reduce local air pollution.
Active School Travel
Active school travel is a great way for children to be physically active and meet the goal of at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per day; however, less than half of Canadian children and youth aged 5-17 years participate. Active school travel helps to build lifelong healthy habits, teaches children about traffic safety, prepares students to learn, and lets them get to know their community and peers. If you live too far from the school or cannot walk or roll the entire way, you can walk to the bus stop or drive to 5! Drive your children to within a five minute walk from the school and walk or roll the rest of the way.
Active school travel can be done all year long! Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress according to weather conditions. To learn more about the benefits of active school travel and how to get involved, view and download HPEPH’s Active School Travel fact sheet.
For more information about road and off-road safety for schools click here.
Brush up on the Rules of the Road
With the development of cycling infrastructure in our region, residents need to understand the expectations for cyclists and motorists on the roads. Check out the Quick Guide to Bicycle Infrastructure to help you learn how to share the road in these environments.
To learn more abut how to Share the Road, check out and download this Share the Road rack card for Drivers and Cyclists.
Where to get active in Hastings Prince Edward Counties
Belleville
The City of Belleville has created an amazing brochure highlighting the cycling network throughout the City to help you map out your route! It also includes the various trails the City has to offer.
Hastings County
Hastings County offers many trails that brings you to breath-taking views, while also being a great way to exercise. Visit their website for more information on each.
Prince Edward County
It’s no secret Prince Edward County has endless outdoor activities for both visitors and residents. Their website offers many options for cycling and lists the many parks and trails you can visit!
Quinte West
In Quinte West, you can find many outdoor spaces to get active including parks, trails and conservation areas! Visit their website to learn more.
Additional Resources for Active Transportation
- Complete and Sustainable Communities Make it Easy for People to Walk, Bike and Roll
- Ontario’s Young Cyclists Guide
- Ontario’s Guide to Safe Cycling
- Helmet Fitting: 2V1 Rule
- CAA’s Bike Safety Inspection: ABC Checklist
- CAA’s Interactive Cycling Road Test
- PHAC: How Are Children Getting to School?
- PHAC: Active Transportation in Children
- Active for Life: Is your child ready to ride independently?
