Sports should be challenging, fun and build physical, intellectual and emotional skills. They’re a great way to be physically active, to learn teamwork and to learn about both winning and losing competition – a vital life skill.

There can be barriers to participating in sport: expensive equipment and fees can get in the way and individuals or parents looking out for their kids may fear injury from sport-related physical activity. 

The data around physical activity are alarming

  • On average, Canadian children are sitting too much and moving too little. According to the 2022 ParticipACTION Report Card for Children and Youth, the COVID-19 pandemic led to declines in physical activity among children and youth as opportunities for sport, play and activity were affected.
  • Only 28 per cent of 5- to 17-year olds are reaching recommended physical activity levels as outlined in the Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines for Children and Youth.
  • Just 37 per cent of 12- to 17-year-olds were reaching their recommended activity levels during the pandemic, compared to 51 per cent prior to the pandemic.

Parachute wants all Canadians to live long lives to the fullest – and that means being physically active to stay healthy, while preventing serious injury. These guides show how to remove hazards from summer sport and physical recreation activities by following safety standards and using the right equipment.

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