Move One Million Canadians

A Call to Action for a Healthier Future

No, We don’t want to re-locate Canadians!

In a world increasingly dominated by screens and sedentary lifestyles, the need for physical activity has never been more critical. Recognizing this urgent need, we are launching the "Move One Million Canadians" campaign (#MoveOneMillionCanadians), an ambitious initiative aimed at inspiring one million Canadians to incorporate more movement into their daily routines by 2030. By encouraging activity during the workday, we hope to instill habits that extend into personal lives, fostering a healthier and more active nation.

The Sedentary Trend in Canada

The modern work environment often demands long hours of sitting, whether at desks, in meetings, or during commutes. According to recent studies, the average Canadian adult spends nearly 10 hours a day being sedentary. This trend is alarming, as prolonged inactivity is linked to numerous health issues, including obesity, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and mental health disorders. Additionally, a study conducted by WHO (World Health Organization) in 2022 estimates, the total health-care cost of physical inactivity will total $4.6B (USD) by 2030 in Canada. This study only includes direct costs, WHO notes economic costs could be even higher when indirect costs are factored in. 

• Obesity: The prevalence of obesity in Canada has been steadily increasing, with nearly one in four Canadian adults classified as obese.
• Cardiovascular Diseases: Sedentary lifestyles contribute to the risk of developing heart diseases, which remain a leading cause of death in Canada.
• Diabetes: Physical inactivity is a significant risk factor for type 2 diabetes, affecting over 3 million Canadians.
• Mental Health: Sedentary behavior is associated with higher levels of anxiety and depression, impacting the overall well-being of individuals.

The Vision: Move One Million Canadians

The goal of the "Move One Million Canadians" campaign is to inspire a cultural shift towards more active lifestyles, starting in the workplace. By 2030, we aim to see one million Canadians embracing movement throughout their workday, thereby reducing the time spent sedentary and improving their overall health and productivity.

How We Plan to Achieve This

1. Workplace Initiatives:
• Active Breaks: Encouraging short, frequent breaks for stretching, walking, or simple exercises.
• Standing Desks: Promoting the use of adjustable desks that allow employees to alternate between sitting and standing.
• Walking Meetings: Replacing traditional sit-down meetings with walking meetings to integrate movement into daily routines.
• On-site Fitness Programs: Offering yoga, pilates, or other fitness classes within the workplace, in person or remotely.

1. Community Engagement:
• Local Events: Organizing community walks, runs, and outdoor activities to promote physical fitness.
• Partnerships: Collaborating with local gyms, fitness clubs, wellness centres and recreational centres to offer discounts and incentives for participation.

1. Educational Campaigns:
• Awareness Programs: Educating the public on the benefits of an active lifestyle and the risks associated with prolonged inactivity.
• Success Stories: Sharing testimonials and success stories of individuals and organizations that have embraced more active lifestyles.

1. Technology Integration:
• Fitness Apps: Developing or promoting apps that encourage regular movement and track physical activity.
• Wearable Devices: Encouraging the use of wearable technology to monitor activity levels and provide reminders to move.

The Impact of Movement

Incorporating more physical activity into our daily lives can lead to profound benefits:

• Improved Physical Health: Regular movement helps maintain a healthy weight, strengthens muscles and bones, and reduces the risk of chronic diseases.
• Enhanced Mental Health: Physical activity is a natural mood booster, reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety and improving overall mental well-being.
• Increased Productivity: Active individuals often experience higher energy levels, better focus, and increased productivity at work.
• Social Connections: Participating in group activities fosters social interaction and strengthens community bonds.

Join the Movement

The "Move One Million Canadians" campaign is more than just a call to action; it's a movement towards a healthier, happier future for all Canadians and OUR MISSION. We invite you to join us in this journey. Whether you're an individual looking to improve your health, an employer wanting to boost employee wellness, or a community leader eager to foster a more active society, there's a place for you in this campaign. Together, we can achieve the goal to move one million Canadians by 2030.