Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

Few things offer as many benefits as simply moving the body. From improved heart health and
mental clarity to better sleep and stronger social bonds, physical activity remains one of the most
effective—and accessible—tools for lifelong well-being. Recognizing this, the Government of
Quebec has set ambitious new targets: increasing physical activity levels among residents by
10% by 2027, and by 20% among youth. The updated Politique de l’activité physique, du sport
et du loisir , released in 2024, places movement at the centre of public health policy.

This summer, the City of Gatineau is helping make those goals more tangible through its Profite
de l’été initiative—a series of free, outdoor fitness programmes taking place across Aylmer. With
sessions designed for older adults, teenagers, new mothers, and anyone looking to stay active, the
programme invites residents to enjoy the season while taking meaningful steps toward better
health.

Among the offerings, Cardio 50+ provides older adults with an energizing weekly workout
focused on cardiovascular health and mobility. Classes will be held Mondays from June 30 to
August 25 at Parc des Cèdres (1 Rue Principale), from 9 am to 10 am, and are best suited to
those already engaging in moderate activity.

New mothers can take part in Cardio-Poussette, a stroller-friendly group session that combines
gentle exercise with outdoor walking. These classes will take place Thursdays from July 3
through August 28, also at Parc des Cèdres, from 10:30 am to 11:30 am. Participants are
encouraged to bring a yoga mat, resistance band, and water.

Teens aged 12 to 17 are the focus of Animation sportive en milieu urbain , a rotating programme
of weeknight sports sessions held at various Aylmer parks. Locations include Parc Central (205
Rue de Bruxelles), Parc Front (175 Rue Front), and Parc des Jardins-Lavigne (250 Avenue du
Bois-Franc), with sessions typically running from 7:45 pm to 9 pm. Beginning July 2, these
informal gatherings will offer an approachable and sociable way for youth to stay active through
games like basketball, soccer, and spikeball.

For those seeking more mindful movement, Kundalini yoga will be offering breathwork and
gentle stretching every Wednesday evening from June 25 to August 27 at Parc de Bruxelles (75
Rue de Bruxelles), from 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm. Meanwhile, Zumba Gold provides a fun, low-impact
dance fitness option at Parc Belmont (26 Rue Belmont) on Wednesday mornings at 9:30 am,
running through August 20.

The full schedule, park details, and transit information are available at:​
https://calendrier.gatineau.cloud/calendrier/parcourir.aspx?langue=fr-ca&secteurs=Aylmer .

Photo: Aylmer’s free summer fitness programme offers residents of all ages a chance to stay
active, connect with others, and support public health goals through accessible outdoor activities
held in local parks. (TF) Photo: Courtesy of the City of Gatineau