As we reach the midpoint of 2025, one thing is clear: exercise remains one of the most powerful, underused tools in Canadian health care. It prevents disease, boosts mental health, extends lifespan, and reduces healthcare costs. And yet—most Canadians remain drastically underactive.
Despite more than $500 million in federal investments over the last decade—through initiatives like ParticipACTION, the Healthy Canadians and Communities Fund, and the Community Sport for All Initiative—participation still lags. Fewer than half of Canadian adults and youth met national physical activity guidelines even before the pandemic. Today, teen girls are among the least active groups, with only 30.7% meeting daily movement targets.
Meanwhile, U.S. gym participation is rising, with over 25% of Americans now holding memberships—compared to just 16–18% in Canada.
Exercise is the most powerful medication on the planet—and Canadians are underdosed.