Should fitness be tax deductible for Canadians?

            Most people are aware of the health benefits associated with exercise. Regular exercise has many short and long term benefits. Diabetes Canada lists benefits including; increased energy, weight maintenance, lowered blood pressure, and lower risk of heart disease. According to Statistics Canada only 57.4% of Canadians self-reported that they partake in 150 or more hours of moderate-to-vigorous exercise per week. With only about half of the population claiming that they regularly exercise, what can be done to get more Canadians to take their health seriously and begin working out? If fitness club fees were tax deductible, more Canadians may begin to incorporate exercise into their lives. The costs associated with fitness facilities keep many from staying active.

            Canadians are a lot less active than they think. Global News reported a follow-up study by Stats Canada that showed that Canadians majorly overestimated their exercise habits. By testing a group of Canadians from all over the country by using accelerometers to measure activity, it was found that only 17% of people are meeting the guidelines of 150 minutes of weekly exercise. This is likely a more accurate depiction of physical activity in our country. Statistics Canada released a report comparing the two studies and outlined that people are most likely overestimating the intensity of their physical activity. By following the Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines, one can improve many aspects of their life. It is estimated that 34% of Canadian adults will be obese by 2025. Obesity leads to many health problems and is a great cost to the healthcare industry.

            The more unfit that Canadian citizens are, the more it will cost our health care in the long run. People who do not engage in regular exercise are shown to need more medical attention in the future. Issues related to obesity and leading a sedentary life cost the government billions in health care. In the study Moving Ahead: The Economic Impact of Reducing Physical Inactivity and Sedentary Behaviour it was found that by a modest decrease in inactivity, health care spending would decrease by $45 million by 2020, and by $167 million by 2040. Nearly 60% of these findings are attributed to a decrease in heart disease.

            According to The Canadian Revenue Agency, athletic or fitness expenses are not eligible to claim on your tax return. The Active Times says that one of the leading excuses people have for not working out is because it is too expensive. This excuse can easily be put to rest by saying, “well, you can run in the park for free.” This is true, but many people need the encouragement and surroundings of a fitness facility or classes to be motivated to exercise. The government needs to step in and make it affordable and accessible for everyone to have access to fitness facilities where they feel comfortable. By giving Canadians support when taking initiative towards their health, it may encourage more residents to do so.

            It is clear that Canadians need to be more active. Leading healthier and more active lives can assist in an overall increase in quality of life as well as prevent many diseases associated with low activity rates and obesity. If diseases and other health issues decline in number of occurrences, health care in Canada could save considerable amounts of money. By offering eligibility of athletic or fitness expenses to claim on tax returns, the government could save billions. In addition to the positive effects on health care spending, this would benefit Canadians on a more personal level. If more residents are inclined and encouraged to incorporate exercise into their weekly routine, their lives will be enriched with mental and physical health benefits. Everyone benefits from a healthy Canada.