The FIFI bloggers often share articles amongst our group as potential inspiration to write a blog post. The other day, Sam shared, “The Generational Barriers to Physical Activity in Canada” by Wasif Chaudri in ParticipACTION (Helping people in Canada move more where they live, learn, work and play since 1971): https://www.participaction.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/ParticipACTION_Generational_Barriers_to_Physical_Activity_in_Canada_report.pdf
In a nutshell, the survey conducted by ParticipACTION looked to understand the reasons why, “If physical activity is recognized as being valuable (for improved mental health, increased energy and reduced risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease), but participation rates are still so low, what is preventing people from living active lifestyles?”
The survey concluded these main takeaways:
Key Generational Barriers (Based on 2026 ParticipACTION Report)
- Gen Z (18–27): Reports the highest number of barriers, including high self-consciousness, fear of failure, and lacking companionship or space for activity.
- Other Generations (Millennials, Gen X, Boomers): While also facing constraints (work obligations, boredom with exercise choices, injury and other health issues, particularly for Boomers), they tend to report fewer psychological, image-driven barriers compared to Gen Z.
- Universal Barriers: Across all ages, common barriers include lack of time, low energy/fatigue, and financial constraints.
A key recommendation from the article was for individuals to seek supportive, beginner-friendly group activities and spaces that reduce social pressure to boost confidence. I agree with this recommendation.
The results of this survey got me thinking, what would have to change, on a bigger level, for factors such as time, low self-confidence, lack of energy, financial constraints, to not block increases in physical fitness across ages?
- REASON – as a society, we have to make a bigger change in the messaging about the reason for exercise. Existing societal messages leave many people with the idea that the main reason to get out there for regular exercise is to “improve” the way they look. While it can be great for people to feel more comfortable in their body because they workout more regularly, this should not be the primary driver. The primary driver should be – exercise will make you feel better overall. It will improve the health markers/outcomes described in the survey.
- We, as a larger society, have to do more than talk about “work/life balance”. We need to advocate for more green spaces, more time, better transporation options, more affordable ways for people to successfully incorporate fitness in their day. It should not be thought of as a “nice to have” but a “necessity”.
What do you think readers? What can be done to remove some of the barriers described in the survey?
