Donate
(Français)

Press Release

Study sheds light on why men aren't getting enough exercise

A new CMHF study reveals half the population isn't getting enough exercise, citing lack of motivation and time as the most significant barriers.
Dad teaching son to skateboard and be active outdoors

New study sheds light on why men aren’t getting enough exercise

  • 42% of Canadian men report lack of motivation as their primary exercise barrier 
  • Canadian Men’s Health Foundation celebrates 10th anniversary with release of new study for Men’s Health Week and Move for Your Mental Health campaign

Vancouver, BC, June 10, 2024 – Exercise faces stiff opposition from Canadian men according to a report from the Canadian Men’s Health Foundation. The new study reveals half the population isn’t getting enough exercise, citing lack of motivation and time as the most significant barriers.

During Men’s Health Week (June 10 – 16) and its annual Move for Your Mental Health campaign, CMHF is encouraging men and their families to find simple ways to add more movement to their day, for the physical and mental health benefits. 

The study conducted by Intensions Consulting surveyed 2,070 Canadian men aged 19 or older and highlights three key physical activity findings: 

  • 50% of Canadian men are not getting at least 150 minutes of moderate to strenuous weekly exercise, per Canada’s 24-Hour Movement Guidelines
  • 42% of Canadian men reported that a lack of motivation prevents them from exercising more
  • 31% of Canadian men reported that not having enough time prevents them from exercising more

“We all know that regular exercise is key to our overall health and well-being, both physically and mentally, but finding the time and motivation can be a challenge,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Health. “We support the good work of the Canadian Men’s Health Foundation, who will be offering activities throughout Men’s Health Week that can help men and their families live more active, happier lives.”

“We’re urging men to take charge, use our resources and get active to make a difference in their lives and improve overall health,” says Kenton Boston, CMHF President & CEO. “As we celebrate 10 years we are proud to offer workout videos with our long-time Champion Trevor Linden. You can also listen to expert advice from our Don’t Change Much podcast.”

Learn more at menshealthfoundation.ca and tag #Move4MentalHealth to join the conversation.

Move for Your Mental Health is supported by the Province of BC, and delivered in partnership with Club16 Trevor Linden Fitness and ParticipACTION.

About Canadian Men’s Health Foundation

Celebrating 10 years, the Canadian Men’s Health Foundation (CMHF) is a registered, national charity with a mission to inspire men and their families to live healthier lives. The statistics around men’s health in Canada are alarming; 70% of men’s health problems can be prevented by adopting healthy lifestyles. Learn more at menshealthfoundation.ca and dontchangemuch.ca

About the Study

The Intensions Consulting study was conducted in Canada between March 5 and 10, 2024. The sample was stratified to ensure its composition reflected the underlying distribution of the population as determined by 2021 Census data. The online survey was administered in French and English. A traditional probability sample of comparable size would have produced results considered accurate to within plus or minus 2.2 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.

Media Requests: [email protected]

Your Donations Make a Difference

As a national charity we rely on donations to provide our services to Canadians. Every contribution helps.
Donate Now