Why Movement Matters, Parks & Rec Reflection from Tofino

Went for a walk today with my lovely wife. Nothing fancy, just stretched the legs, felt the sun on my face, and reminded myself that I’m still a human being with knees.

Weather’s warming up, and I can feel the coast calling. A good friend of mine, Seb, is heading to Tofino soon for the Rip Curl Nationals one of Canada’s biggest surf competitions. Serious athletes, wild waves, and a reminder that some people actually live life outside of Google Calendar.

This morning, I spoke with a university football coach. He was literally on the field while we chatted. Whistle blowing, players doing sprints in the background, the whole bit. It made me think, my days used to look a little more like that.

Back when I was a police dog handler, staying fit was part of the job. Running drills, field work, daily training, your body just stayed ready. These days, a few injuries and surgeries later? I’m in front of a screen building a software company. Great for the brain, not always for the back.

And I know I’m not alone. From municipal staff to tech teams, a lot of us are spending more time sitting behind deadlines, behind devices, and behind on movement.

That’s why parks and recreation access matters. Whether it’s a surf comp in Tofino, a walking club for seniors, or a rec league for parents who’ve still “got it” (kind of)… it makes a difference. People need easy ways to move.

We’ve even partnered with innovators like Civic Dollars whose program rewards residents for staying active, turning movement into real community value.

Cities making it easier to join a local program or book a facility? That’s the kind of thing we quietly support through Rec+. Tech should never get in the way, it should clear the path.

So yeah.. go for that walk. Register for that swim class. Cheer for the underdog at the surf finals.

Move a little. It goes a long way.