Grant: Applied Research and Development Grants - Level 1

Canada has the beginnings of many effective programs and partnerships that support physical activity as a greater part of daily life in all communities. In response to worldwide aging population, efforts have attempted to improve the health and quality of life of the population, particularly in the older adults group. Indeed, there is compelling scientific evidence that regular physical activity improves health and quality of life and reduces the risk of chronic diseases, disability and premature death. Despite scientific evidence, the number of people participating regularly in physical activities remains low, mostly in the older adults group. To address this concerning trend, playground equipment manufacturers produce outdoor fitness equipment with by far lower performance than equipment currently found in commercial indoor fitness centers, from a bio-mechanical standpoint. In this project, Outdoor Fit Exercise Systems Inc. is seeking NSCC's support to design a new product, an outdoor cardio fitness climber with performance closer to the indoor versions and that can work in an unsupervised environment. This equipment will have the potential to contribute both positive and preventive factors for maintaining health in the population including physiology, psychology and cognitive benefits.