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What is the PAL?

The Physical Activity Line is a free phone line and website for physical activity information and advice.   

 

What are the services provided by the PAL?

The Physical Activity Line provides a range of services to the public including:

  • Health Screening to determine a safe level and type of physical activity.
  • Individual physical activity recommendations based your goals, current fitness level and health status.
  • Health education related to physical activity.
  • Support to help you become more physically active, overcome barriers and stay motivated.
  • Assistance to find suitable health and fitness programs in your community.
  • Referrals to health care professionals such as physiotherapists or dietitians.

 

Does it cost anything to call PAL?

No.  PAL is a completely free service.   You can call as much as you like.  If you live in the lower mainland call us at 604-241-2266.  For those living outside the Lower Mainland you can reach us toll free at 1-877-725-1149. 

 

Who will I talk to when I call PAL?

Our PAL Phone Operators are all CSEP Certified Exercise Physiologists®.    Our staff have a minimum of a university  or college degree in exercise science, as well as  experience working in a variety of different settings including personal training, recreation, sports training, and chronic disease management.  

 

When I call the PAL do I have to give them my name or contact information?

No.   When you contact PAL it is up to you to decide what personal information you wish to give us.   However, we may ask you some questions related to your health such as those from the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q) in order to provide you with safe and appropriate advice .   You will not need to provide your name or contact information unless you would like us to send you information via email or mail.

 

Where is PAL available?

PAL is available to all residents of British Columbia. If you live in the lower mainland call us at 604-241-2266.  For those living outside the Lower Mainland you can reach us toll free at 1-877-725-1149. 

 

What are the hours of operation for the PAL?

The PAL phone lines are open from 9 am to 5 pm Monday to Friday.   Outside of our phone line hours please browse our website or send us an email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

 

Can I email PAL with my question instead of calling?

Yes.  Some general questions about exercise can be answered by email.   However, if you have a more complicated question we may need further information to provide you with safe and appropriate recommendations.   We strive to answer all emails within 2 business days. 

 

I already know how to be physically active, but I struggle with staying motivated.  Can the PAL help?

Yes.  There are many ways to help increase motivation.   From helping you to set realistic goals to troubleshooting your barriers the PAL will work with you to help you discover what motivates you.  

 

Will the recommendations from PAL require me to go to a gym or purchase equipment?

This will depend on what you wish to do.   Many forms of exercise can be done with little or no equipment.   We understand that some people are not comfortable in a gym or do not wish to pay membership fees.    We will do our best to ensure the recommendations we give you suit your preferences and address your barriers.  

 

Does PAL provide nutrition advice?

PAL will provide some limited nutrition advice based on Canada's Food Guide.   However the experts in nutrition are Registered Dietitians.  You can access free advice from a Registered Dietitian by dialling HealthLink BC at  8-1-1  and asking to speak to a Dietitian.    www.healthlinkbc.ca

 

I have a medical condition and would like to get more physically active.  Can PAL assist me?

Yes.  The PAL is staffed by national CSEP Certified Exercise Physiologists® (CSEP-CEP) who can provide exercise advice to individuals with medical conditions.  Once you have indicated that you have a medical condition such as diabetes or high blood pressure the PAL phone operator will determine if there is any risk to becoming more physically active.    Afterwards, the PAL staff will advise you on a safe level and type of exercise and what precautions you will need to consider.   

 

Are there other free phone line services in BC?

Yes.  Health advice over the phone has become a common service in BC.   While the PAL provides physical activity advice, similar programs offer different types of free information from qualified professionals.  Some of these lines include:

HealthLinkBC -  Non-emergency health information and services, online or over the phone, from a Nurse, Dietitian or Pharmacist.   www.healthlinkbc.ca

Dial 8-1-1

QuitNow - Advice and support to help you quit smoking.  www.quitnow.ca

Dial 1-877-455-2233

Health and Seniors Information Line - Information on both health and non-health related federal and provincial government programs and services for British Columbia seniors. http://www.hls.gov.bc.ca/seniors/seniors_info_line.htm

          In Victoria call: 250-952-1742
          Toll-free: 1-800-465-4911

 

  

 
Last Updated on Wednesday, 03 March 2010 10:46
 
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The health information provided on this sheet is only a guide. You also need to rely on your common sense and good judgment. If you receive advice from a doctor or health professional that does not agree with the information provided here, follow the advice of your doctor or health professional since it is based on your specific history and needs
  

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