rec and tourism discussion 2 Essay

In recent years there has been a rapid increase in obesity rates amongst Canadians. Obesity is a growing epidemic in that statistics show that one in four Canadians are obese and this rate is on the rise. Due to technological advancements and modern conveniences, Canadians are receiving less and less physical activity in their daily lives. An article written by Parks Canada defines the current disconnect of Canadians with nature that adversely affect their personal, community, family, and societal aspects of their lives as nature- deficit disorder. This phenomenon is not only impacting the obesity rates in Canada but as well as diabetes rates, vitamin D deficiencies, and an overall shorter life expectancy than in the past.

Statistics show that Canadians spend more time indoors than ever before. It is estimated that we spend roughly 90% of our days indoors, predominantly restrained to sitting in front of a screen. The amount of time that individuals spend on the computer or the Internet has doubled that of the average time in the 1990’s. Even when it comes to transportation, youth and adults alike commute to work by either public transportation or drive as opposed to walking or riding a bike. It is estimated that only 28% of students either walk or ride a bike to school compared to 58% of these students’ parents. The shift to a sedentary lifestyle has also impacted our means of recreation. For example, youth summer camps are now offering more and more indoor activities such as computer sciences and arts.

The role of nature and recreation can have profound influences on obesity but as well as the many detrimental affects of nature deficit Canadians. Firstly, parks and other recreational areas are nature’s gym. By participating in outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, swimming, playing sports, or just going for a walk can greatly reduce the risk of becoming obese or to lose weight. Being out in nature and engaging in physical activity has also been known to lower

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