The YWCA believes the health and wellness of all individuals contributes to a vibrant and healthy community. Many factors can influence overall health?from genetics to social, mental and physical environments to the economic context of our lives and our own coping skills.

Physical inactivity is an enormous health issue in Canada, especially for women and children. Women are less likely than men to be physically active and 60% of our youth do not meet minimum fitness standards. While Canadians are often touted as one of the healthiest people in the world, obesity and sedentary lifestyles are on the rise. Research shows that the number of deaths associated with obesity has nearly doubled in the past 15 years and 43% of Canadians are considered inactive.

Poverty is one of the leading barriers to achieving health and wellness, affecting women’s ability not only to access an affordable fitness facility, but also to buy nutritious food for her family. A recent study by the Canadian Medical Association revealed that low-income single mothers often compromise their own nutrition to feed their children. Quality and affordable childcare is a cornerstone for helping to reduce the poverty cycle through early childhood development and lifelong learning.

The YWCA believes in a holistic approach to health and wellness—encouraging empowerment to make positive lifestyle choices to rise above crisis and barriers. We also offer quality and affordable childcare and day camps to promote an early, healthy start in life.

View the Fitness on 5th Website