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Lower activity among immigrants
Immigrants are less likely to meet physical activity guidelines than Canadian-born individuals.
Program 1 · Public health
Fitness activities and health promotion
Structured weekly running and walking groups, including 5K, 10K and 15K formats, beginner walking groups and specialty clinics. Designed to address specific, well-documented health risks of physical inactivity, not general well-being.
Medical necessity
A preventive response to a documented health risk
In Canada, approximately 77.8% of adults are physically inactive. Physical inactivity is a leading contributor to:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Obesity
- Type 2 diabetes
These conditions are widely recognized as preventable through regular, structured physical activity.
Who is most at risk
The need is greater in immigrant and racialized communities
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East & Southeast Asian communities
Physical activity levels are lower in these communities, particularly among newer immigrants.
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Health declines after arrival
Health outcomes tend to decline over time after arrival in Canada, partly due to reduced activity and lifestyle changes.
Compounding barriers
These risks are compounded by:
- Social isolation
- Cultural and language barriers
- Limited access to structured and affordable fitness programs
Our programs therefore work as preventive and early-intervention health initiatives, providing consistent weekly physical activity (2–3 hours per session) to improve cardiovascular fitness, mobility and overall health.
Program structure
Every session follows a consistent format
01
Warm-up & mobility
Guided routines that prepare the body for activity.
02
Group walking / running
Paced by ability level: beginner walks, 5K, 10K and 15K.
03
Strength & conditioning
Exercises with an injury-prevention focus.
04
Cool-down & recovery
Stretching and recovery guidance.
Professional structure
Who leads the sessions
Experienced volunteer run leaders
Weekly programs are led by experienced volunteer run leaders, including people who regularly take part in organized races such as the Toronto Waterfront Marathon.
Certified guest coaches
Certified coaches from Running Coaches of Canada lead our specialty clinics, focusing on:
- Injury prevention
- Pacing strategies
- Safe training techniques
Specialty clinics
Hands-on clinics for 15–20 participants
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Instruction
Theory paired with practical drills.
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Technique correction
Coaches observe and correct running form.
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Q&A and personal guidance
Time for individual questions and advice.
Intake process
A simple registration keeps everyone safe
Participants complete a basic intake and registration:
- Fitness level (beginner / intermediate)
- Optional health considerations
- Emergency contact
This lets facilitators:
- Group participants appropriately
- Adjust intensity safely
- Provide modifications where needed
Public benefit
Open, free and inclusive
Open to everyone 16+
Programs are open to all individuals aged 16 and over, regardless of skill level.
Priority access
- Vietnamese and Southeast Asian newcomers
- Visible minorities
- People seeking community integration
No barriers
- Free of charge
- Held in public parks and trails
- Inclusive and non-competitive
Why Vietnamese and Southeast Asian communities
Our focus reflects:
- Established settlement patterns in urban Canada
- Documented lower physical activity participation rates among these groups
- The importance of culturally familiar, peer-led environments
Beyond physical health, the program addresses social determinants of health: social isolation, lack of community connection, and limited access to informal support networks.
Come run (or walk) with us this Sunday
Every Sunday at 9 AM · Firkin on the Bay, Toronto · Free for everyone 16+