Canadians Are Not Spending Enough Time Outside, New Survey Finds
Updated: Jun. 28, 2017
Canadians need to start spending more time in nature.
If you live in Canada, you’re fortunate enough to be in one of the most geographically diverse countries in the world.
Whether you’re hiking in British Columbia’s Pacific Rim National Park Reserve in Vancouver, or fishing for salmon in the Aquaforte River in Newfoundland, there’s no shortage of outdoor fun in our country.
Even Canada’s major cities are filled with parks, urban green spaces, or trails within its city centres. Which is why I couldn’t believe the results from the 2017 Coleman Canada Outdoor Report, which was released by the camping gear company.
According to the survey, almost 30 per cent of Canadians spend less than 30 minutes outdoors every week, which is less than five minutes each day. Meanwhile, 64 per cent of adult Canadians spend less than two hours outside per week.
More time outside
“With celebrating our country’s 150th birthday this year, what better time than now to enjoy and explore our beautiful outdoors,” Dawn Whiteside, the brand activation manager at Coleman Canada, said in a press release.
“Somewhat ironically, our survey also found that eight in 10 believe that the beautiful outdoors and landscape represents Canada, making it the thing we most identify with as Canadians.”
Thankfully, those surveyed aren’t shunning the great outdoors for good.
And get this: 84 per cent of adults want to spend more time outside, but they complain that work and busy personal or family schedules are keeping them indoors.
You’re hot and you’re cold
But when people do have spare time, 73 per cent of those surveyed choose to stay indoors because of intense weather conditions.
While I’ll be the first one to admit that I also hide indoors when it’s too hot in the summer or too cold in the winter, there are always ways to make the most of the severe climates Canada has to offer.
Working at Best Health, I’m super conscious with practicing safe sun habits. But, I always make a point of going on daily walks in the evenings or the early mornings.
Although I’m totally guilty of spending too much time in winter hibernating indoors, I’m determined to spend more time outdoors this coming winter.
After all, ice skating and, of course, playing a game of hockey, is what Canadian winters are all about.
Until then, I’ll be enjoying this summer outside.
Looking to spend more time outside? These must-reads are sure to give you some inspiration:
