Recent data from ParticipACTION reveals a concerning find when it comes to Canadians getting active.

Think you're getting enough steps in a day? It turns out you might be walking a lot less than you think. ParticipACTION's new report card revealed that fewer than one-third of Canadian walk enough to have what is considered an "active lifestyle." 

Canadians Aren't Reaching their daily step goals

According to the 2025 report, only 32 percent of Canadian say they take at least 7,500 steps per day, which ParticipACTION considers an active lifestyle. This number represents a significant decline compared to previous years, causing some concern for health specialists.

Less Than Half Of Canadians Meet Physical Activity Recommendations

In addition to walking, moderate to vigorous physical activity is important for heart health. The report indicates that only 46 percent of adults reach the recommended 150 minutes per week. Despite the widely recognized importance of an active lifestyle, more than half of the population does not meet the minimum numbers.

Read: A Daily 'Fart Walk' Can Lower Your Risk Of Diabetes

The Consequences of a Sedentary Lifestyle

Physical inactivity is one of today's major public health challenges. According to ParticipACTION, the costs associated with inactivity in terms of healthcare, chronic diseases, and lost productivity are very high. Furthermore, the benefits of an active lifestyle are numerous: improved cardiovascular health, diabetes prevention, mental health, prevention of physical decline, and an enhanced quality of life.

Read: Can A Weighted Vest Amp Up Your Daily Walk?

What you can do to increase your daily physical activity

• Incorporate more walking into your routine: walk down the block to get a coffee, choose the stairs, walk or cycle when possible.
• Aim for 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity per week; even simple sessions count.
• Break up long periods of sitting: get up regularly, move around, stretch your body, walk for a few minutes.
• Adopt a gradual approach: every little effort counts. The important thing is consistency.

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