Why sport is important to Canadians and Canada

On this page

• Individual benefits of sport
• Collective benefits of sport
• Benefits for Indigenous people
• Other benefits for people with disabilities

Sport plays a crucial role in society, acting as a powerful unifying tool that transcends cultural, geographical and social boundaries. It can shape healthier and more cohesive communities and be invaluable in challenging stereotypes and driving positive societal change. Sport is a fundamental element of Canadian culture.

Sport is also an essential avenue for health and well-being and can afford unique opportunities for vulnerable populations. Sport and physical activity can provide invaluable and life-changing opportunities for personal growth and development. It is a multifaceted tool that promotes health, social inclusion, and the development of essential life skills.

The importance of sport and physical activity to Canadians was emphasized in almost all of our conversations. Many recounted the magic of their first sport experiences, and the lessons and camaraderie that developed in sport environments. They spoke of the joy of acquiring new skills and the sense of accomplishment that followed, as well as the value of sport in community life and social interactions. We also heard how sport was a safe place away from home for some people, who attributed their current success to opportunities gained through sport. It is particularly significant that many discussions emphasized the importance of school and community sport, and the value of multiple sport experiences in childhood and youth.

Even when individuals shared their experiences of maltreatment, one clear theme consistently emerged: the fundamental importance and value of sport.

Statistics Canada's 2023 Survey Series on People and their Communities found that approximately 55% of people aged 15 years or older participated in organized sport, with men participating at a higher rate than women (62% in comparison with 49%).^{Footnote 1} It was reported that just over 80% of sport is played recreationally, outside of a club or league, sometimes in combination with more structured recreational programs, such as group fitness, intramural sports or sport clubs.^{Footnote 2} The most common reasons that Canadians participate in sport are physical health and fitness, fun, recreation and relaxation, mental health, and time with friends.^{Footnote 3}

In contrast, in 2024, the Canadian Fitness and Lifestyle Research Institute’s Physical Activity and Sport Survey found that 27% of Canadian adults 18 years and older participate in organized sport, which includes structured sport activities with a focus on competition, rules, and skill development.^{Footnote 4} The lower participation rate reported by this survey reflects a specific focus on organized sport participation compared to the broader definition of sport used by Statistics Canada. As reported by Statistics Canada, while acknowledging that activity is good for them, only 49% of Canadian adults meet recommended physical activity guidelines.^{Footnote 5}

Perhaps more concerning is the data documenting depressingly low levels of physical activity in Canada’s school children. This could be explained, in part, by the declining availability of sport and physical activity programs in Canada’s schools. We learned that this troubling reality stems from a combination of factors, including physical activity not being a priority within the school curriculum, teachers’ working hours and qualifications, and challenges with access to facilities. Only 39% of children youth (5-17 years old) in Canada met the recommended 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity per day necessary for healthy growth and development, according to ParticipACTION's 2024 Report Card on Physical Activity for Children and Youth.^{Footnote 6}

In general, sport participation rates decline with age and are lower among girls and women. Only a small portion of Canadian adults are active. For example, only 18% of men aged 65 and older reported participating in sport, compared to 28% of men aged 45-64.^{Footnote 7} The trend is even more pronounced among women, with only 9% of those aged 65 and older participating, compared to 13% in the 45-64 age group.^{Footnote 8} Among children and youth aged 5 to 17, approximately 68% participated in sport in 2022, with boys participating at a slightly higher rate than girls.^{Footnote 9}

According to the 2024 Rally Report, the rate at which girls drop out of sport increases at age 16 and then accelerates through their teens, such that more than one in five leave sport during this time. While a similar number of boys leave sport at the same age, their participation remains consistent through their late teens and into their twenties, resulting in a sizable participation gap between men and women. This means that young women are more likely to miss out on the benefits of continued sport involvement. When exploring why people withdraw from sport, a primary reason often cited is the focus on success and victory, which limits participation for many.^{Footnote 10}

As for sport participation among Indigenous people in Canada, limited data makes it difficult to accurately determine any participation rates, particularly for adults. Indeed, most reports only provide broad statistics for “Indigenous” populations without distinguishing between First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people. One report sampled Ontario-based youth and found that 55% of all youth participated in sport within the previous year. Compared to their peers, 54% of Indigenous youth sampled reported participating in sport at least once in the previous year. Another report indicates that 30% of First Nation, Inuit, and Métis girls aged 13 to 18 years old participate in sport at least weekly, compared to 52% of “White girls.”^{Footnote 11}

A 2010 Statistics Canada report for Sport Canada also noted that immigrants who arrived in Canada after 1990 participated in sports at the same rate as Canadian-born (27%). Long-term or established immigrants were less likely to take part in sports, with a participation rate of only 16%. Most recently, Statistics Canada reported that participation in sport varied based on ethnic or cultural origins, with some groups participating significantly more in sport than others.^{Footnote 12}

Furthermore, data with respect to children in the lowest income households reveal that 46% of children 5 to 11 years old meet the physical activity recommendation, compared to 57% of children in the highest-income households.^{Footnote 13}

Individual benefits of sport

One of the most profound impacts of sport lies in its contribution to individual health. Compelling evidence shows that consistent participation in sport and physical activity strengthens cardiovascular health, thereby decreasing the likelihood of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, and premature mortality, among other medical conditions.^{Footnote 14} In addition, engaging in moderate physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight, mitigating the likelihood of developing Type 2 diabetes. Weight-bearing physical activity, such as running, racket sports and weightlifting, also promotes bone health for people of all ages.^{Footnote 15}

Beyond the physical benefits, quality sport and physical activity experiences contribute to better mental and emotional health. Exercise has been shown to significantly decrease anxiety, stress, and depression, and by extension, improve overall mood.^{Footnote 16} Among adults, engaging in sport also boosts psychological well-being, including higher levels of self-esteem and life satisfaction.^{Footnote 17} Among youth, participation in sport can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.^{Footnote 18} It should be noted, however, that for elite-level athletes, participation in sport can also generate stress and other mental health challenges.^{Footnote 19}

During the Commission’s work, numerous participants highlighted the significant individual benefits of sport. It was emphasized that sport has the power to save lives, and many told us that they were able to overcome personal challenges through physical activity. We were also told that sport fosters self-care and healing, and that it serves as an important tool for self-regulation.

Sport also plays a vital role in cultivating essential life skills. Team sports in particular, teach participants how to work, communicate, and cooperate with others. They help people strengthen interpersonal skills such as conflict resolution and collaboration by providing a structured environment where they work together towards common goals.^{Footnote 20} These shared experiences encourage social bonding,^{Footnote 21} and support the development of meaningful relationships.^{Footnote 22} While we noted that some adverse behaviours may originate in certain sport settings if not appropriately led, we recognize that sport participants can learn how to respect rules while developing a sense of fair play.^{Footnote 23} This promotes ethical behaviour, values that can extend beyond the playing field, shaping responsible and engaged citizens. Skills like dedication and perseverance, cultivated through striving for improvement in sport, can help participants develop self-discipline and a strong work ethic.^{Footnote 24}

Sport and physical activity promote personal growth and development, and allow individuals to dream. Many noted that sport instills important values such as perseverance and teamwork. Challenging and exceeding perceived limits contributes to building self-confidence.

Early involvement in sports is linked to better educational and employment outcomes, especially for women and girls.^{Footnote 25} It is also associated with higher earnings and job satisfaction later in life.^{Footnote 26} Employers increasingly acknowledge the role of physical activity in boosting workplace productivity. Active employees tend to demonstrate greater focus, experience fewer and shorter absences, and are less impacted by health issues that commonly lead to absenteeism.^{Footnote 27}

Collective benefits of sport

The Commission heard compelling stories of the role sport plays in bringing people together, fostering social connections, creating friendships and enhancing community life. Whether it is playing on a team, interacting on a playground, or participating in recreation leagues, sport allows children (and often parents or guardians), teens, and adults, to connect with others in healthy and socially positive ways. These relationships, which transcend winning or losing, create supportive networks that promote belonging.

Identity, diversity and prevention of youth crime

Beyond the general benefits of sport in communities, sporting events can bring communities together, fostering a shared sense of identity and pride. After-school sports programs in culturally diverse communities have been shown to successfully facilitate social inclusion processes, enabling the development of relationships between students from different cultural backgrounds.^{Footnote 28} From local leagues to national competitions, sport provides opportunities for people from diverse backgrounds to connect and celebrate common goals.^{Footnote 29}

A 2014 report from the Institute for Canadian Citizenship showed that 95% of new Canadians citizens believe that sports are an important part of Canadian culture, generating national pride and a more intense connection to being Canadian.^{Footnote 30} In addition, 87% of new citizens reported that watching their children play sports or volunteering for their children’s sports teams helped them feel more connected to the community. Newcomers also shared that the social interactions they experienced in the stands and on the field were often more meaningful than those they had at work.^{Footnote 31}

Consistent with this information, the Commission heard particularly important messages from new Canadians, Indigenous Peoples and organizations, racialized athletes and para-athletes about the incredible value of sport in facilitating inclusion, community development and exchange of cultural knowledge for marginalized groups. We learned that sport can serve as a bridge that brings people together despite differences in background or ability.

The relationship between the benefits of sports participation and the reduction of youth crime is complex. Academic findings about the degree to which sport reduces crime and recidivism are inconsistent.^{Footnote 32} Sport is nevertheless seen as a vehicle to minimize risk factors associated with crime, violence and drug use.^{Footnote 33} Some cite data to suggest that sport programs may act as a “protective” measure and reduce unlawful, anti-social and risky behaviour.^{Footnote 34}

Economic benefits and health care

The economic impact of sport is substantial and multifaceted, contributing significantly to the national and local economies. The sports industry encompasses a wide range of activities, including sports tourism, generating considerable revenue.^{Footnote 35} Major sporting events, such as the Olympic and Paralympic Games or national championships, can attract significant tourism and therefore boost local businesses, create employment opportunities and drive infrastructure development.^{Footnote 36}

Government sources indicate that Canada hosts over 250,000 sports events annually, varying greatly in size and significance. These events all provide economic benefits in the form of visitor spending.^{Footnote 37} In 2018, sport tourists (domestic and international visitors) spent $6.8 billion in total spending across Canada.^{Footnote 38} These investments can have long-term impacts for local economies. They enhance community appeal, which can help attract and retain knowledge workers.^{Footnote 39} For example, it was reported that in 2022, the sport and recreation sector in Canada produced more than 259,000 jobs.^{Footnote 40}

While sport and recreation employ thousands of Canadians across the country, it would not exist without the legions of volunteers who make an essential contribution to community health and well-being. In Canada, 27% of adults^{Footnote 41} reported volunteering in an activity related to sport, the third most significant level of volunteer activity^{Footnote 42} following hospitals and religious organizations.^{Footnote 43} In 2020, the financial value of volunteering for sport-based activities in Canada was estimated at $13.6 billion.^{Footnote 44}

The impact of physical activity on the health of Canadians has significant socio-economic implications. A physically active population places less strain on the healthcare system, leading to lower healthcare costs in the short-term.^{Footnote 45} On the contrary, physical inactivity is a controllable risk factor linked to multiple diseases and mental health disorders, including cardiovascular disease, hypertension, breast and colon cancer, diabetes (type 2) and depression.^{Footnote 46} In 2022, the health costs associated with sedentary lifestyles were estimated at $3.9 billion.^{Footnote 47}

National pride

Sport cultivates national pride and unites Canadians through shared moments of triumph and passion. Moments like a game-winning goal in overtime or a last-second penalty shot remind Canadians of their collective strength and determination. With their dedication, perseverance and resilience, athletes serve as role models and inspire Canadians to pursue their own goals in their personal and professional lives.

National pride in Team Canada was palpable during the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) and Radio-Canada reported that 7 in 10 Canadians (27 million) followed the event and consumed a record-breaking 24.3 million hours of Olympic content.^{Footnote 48} This represents a 170% increase from the Tokyo 2020 Games and 121% from the Beijing 2022 Games.^{Footnote 49} Moreover, CBC and Radio-Canada's coverage of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games similarly reached new milestones, with total viewership on digital platforms rising by 153% compared to Tokyo 2020.^{Footnote 50}

In sum, the Commission’s engagement process and independent review consistently affirmed that sport and physical activity are not only essential to the physical and mental well-being of Canadians but are integral parts of Canada’s culture, economy and national identity.

Benefits for Indigenous people

During our work, Indigenous people shared with us that for them, the significance of sport extends far beyond staying active and combatting obesity. It can literally save lives. Furthermore, we were told that sport helps prevent early pregnancies, reduces the risk of suicide, and keeps youth away from gang affiliation, drugs, and alcohol.

Our discussions revealed that, in the context of a growing mental health crisis (especially among Indigenous youth), being involved in sport provides a vital outlet, helps channel frustration and grief, and helps manage stress, anxiety and trauma. We were told that for Indigenous people, “movement is medicine.”

We also learned from Indigenous communities that sport plays an important role in bringing people together as it is one of the few spaces where children can learn to embrace diversity. It was shared with us that one of the main benefits of sport for Indigenous youth is the opportunity to go beyond their immediate community and engage with others. Indigenous people also shared with us that sport fosters connections among Indigenous nations.

Within Indigenous communities, sport builds social skills, develops a sense of belonging and teaches important life lessons. We heard repeatedly that sport creates meaningful opportunities in that it encourages youth to stay in school, reduces the risk of homelessness, and increases the chances of graduating and pursuing post-secondary education.

Other benefits for people with disabilities

Statistics Canada reports that in 2022, 27% of the Canadian population aged 15 years and older had one or more disabilities, a 5% increase in 5 years.^{Footnote 51} Even though they constitute more than a quarter of the population, most Canadians with disabilities continue to face limited access to sport and physical activity.

Parasports are designed to meet the unique needs of Canadians with a broad range of physical and sight disabilities. Some of these sports are adaptions of sports played by people without disabilities, for example wheelchair basketball, while others are uniquely designed activities, such as goalball.

Sport and physical activity play a particularly crucial role in enhancing the physical and mental health of persons with disabilities. It also helps them adapt and build supportive communities. Sport holds particular importance for para-athletes, who often face challenges not encountered by others. Parasport empowers them and allows them to realize their full potential. It enhances their quality of life, provides a sense of purpose, and plays a crucial role in overcoming trauma. Through sport, para-athletes build confidence, resilience, and life skills, while also gaining a strong sense of belonging and community.

Para-athletes shared that they never thought that they could play sport until they found parasport opportunities, and that sport is the only place where they truly feel accepted. Such developments, we learned, afford advantages and opportunities that extend to entire families, and to other areas, like employment and advocacy efforts.^{Footnote 52}

Para-athletes also emphasized the importance of high-performance sport for Canadians with disabilities, noting that it serves as a source of inspiration and opportunities. It also helps to represent people with disabilities both within Canadian society and on the international stage. Events such as the Special Olympics, which offer a range of unique and empowering sport opportunities for individuals with an intellectual disability, challenge negative stereotypes and misconceptions and promote inclusion, respect, and acceptance.