At a Glance / Aperçu

Canadians need to live more actively

Canadian Medical Association Journal 1996; 155: 564

A recently released report says Canadians are more active now than in 1988 but 35% of them are still "essentially inactive." The report, prepared by Active Living Canada, the Canadian Fitness and Lifestyle Research Institute, the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada and Participaction, responds to a similar American report released by the US Surgeon General that discusses physical activity and health. On a positive note, the proportion of physically active Canadians has been growing steadily, rising from 21% in 1981 to 37% today. Both the American and Canadian reports recommend regular moderate physical activity as a way to improve health and well-being. Most experts say the goal should be 30 minutes of exercise, such as brisk walking or stair climbing, daily.

| CMAJ September 1, 1996 (vol 155, no 5) |