Fitness in Canada has declined: study

A Statistics Canada survey, the Canadian Health Measures Survey, has revealed that the fitness level of Canadians has dramatically decreased since the early 1980s.

The survey found that the decrease in fitness for children age 6 to 19 was “significant and meaningful” in comparison to levels in the early 1980s.  

Today by age 12 children are taller and heavier than in the 1980s.  The study also found overall body composition is less healthy, and their strength and flexibility has decreased.  These results show that obesity is on the rise.  

Adults did not do any better in the study, especially young adults.  Those aged 20 to 39 had waist measurements that placed them at high risk for health problems.  A comparison with previous results shows an increase for men from 5% to 21%, and an increase for women from 6% to 31%.

The above is an indication of why it is more important now than ever to incorporate wellness into workplaces, particularly physical activity programs.

Decreased fitness levels mean that there will be a higher number of employees with health problems.  In turn, this will lead to an increased EAP usage.  

Let 2010 be a year where everyone makes it a priority to get active!

Read more here

Posted by: suhujitha on 2010-01-13 12:24:18

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