Physical activity levels among Canadians using a health equity lens

This study examined physical activity (PA) patterns among Canadian youth (12–17 years) and adults (≥18 years) across sociodemographic subgroups including gender, sexual orientation, population group, education, and income. Using data from the 2021 Canadian Community Health Survey (N = 44,239), self-reported daily PA across multiple domains and adherence to national PA recommendations were assessed. Results showed clear inequalities: boys and men were more likely than girls and women to meet PA recommendations and reported higher recreational and school/camp or occupational/household PA. Higher household income and education were associated with greater recreational PA among both youth and adults, while few subgroup differences were observed for active transportation. These findings indicate persistent PA inequalities in Canada and underscore the need for further research to understand their drivers and inform targeted intervention strategies.