I CAN – that’s the message to Gold Coasters who want to feel active and healthy.

Mayor Tom Tate, together with Titans player Jai Arrow and Suns player Sam Collins, joined in the pilates class at Carrara to launch the City’s new Active & Healthy program.

“This year, our focus is on empowering people to say I CAN. With more than 170 free or low cost activities on offer across the city each week, it’s easy to get motivated and get moving,” he said.

“This year’s theme - I CAN - is all about being inspired and empowered to live a healthy lifestyle and what better inspiration than our football players – our city’s active and healthy role models.

“Around a quarter of the city’s population already participates in the program but lack of regular physical activity is still a massive issue. Our goal is to get more of the City doing 30 mins of moderate physical activity a few days a week.

“Increasing sports participation at a grassroots level is one of our Commonwealth Games legacies.

Our Active & Healthy program is helping to make the Gold Coast Way Ahead - a progressive, social and active city.

“Love of the outdoors is a key aspect of our lifestyle and being active and healthy is also a part of that, so I encourage everyone to get out there and say I CAN!”

Titans player Jai Arrow said as a professional athlete, he understands how important it is to look after himself physically and mentally.

“Even though I’ve got an ankle injury at the moment, it hasn’t stopped me. I’m still doing weights, walking and swimming,” he said.

GC Suns player Sam Collins said I CAN was about everyone in the community getting active and healthy, regardless of cost and fitness levels.

“It’s about believing in yourself. Whether it’s surfing, walking or playing footy, we CAN all get involved to improve our overall wellbeing,” said Sam.