What it measures
Dimension: Participation
This indicator reports Canadians’ average monthly participation in physically active leisure during the three months prior to survey participation. Vigorous physical activities such as bicycling, exercising, and sport participation are included in this indicator, as are less demanding activities like gardening and social dancing. On average, Canadians participate in physically active leisure lasting more than 15 minutes about 26 times each month, with men participating slightly more often than women.
Why this matters
Regular participation in physical activity throughout the life course is especially beneficial to physical and mental health.