What’s Your Health Worth?
What if I told you that New Brunswick’s biggest health concerns—like overcrowded hospitals and increasingly limited access to healthcare—don’t have a solution that lies in throwing more money at the system? I 100% agree this is a serious issue in our province, but here’s the truth: funneling funds into more hospital beds, more doctors, and more nurses doesn’t fix the root cause. It’s a temporary band-aid that will eventually need replacing again in 5 to 10 years.
The problem runs deeper. The alarming numbers you’ll see here are just the beginning. As the next generation becomes even more sedentary, their metabolic health will decline at an even faster rate. Add to that the profound mental health effects of growing up in a social media-driven world, and don’t even get me started on the posture problems—chronic neck and spine pain are almost guaranteed as screen time increases.
But what if I told you there’s an answer? What if I told you that there’s a form of preventative care you can take right now and share with your family? One that’s more effective than any pill or vaccine. One that can help prevent and even reverse many of the chronic health issues we’re facing today.
The answer? Exercise.
New Brunswick’s Silent Epidemic:
Obesity
41% of New Brunswick adults are classified as obese, one of the highest rates in Canada (source).
Obesity increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and even certain cancers. Regular exercise helps manage weight, reduce body fat, and address underlying issues like insulin resistance.
Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
Nearly 30% of New Brunswickers report having high blood pressure (source).
This condition is a leading cause of heart attacks and strokes. Aerobic activities like running, swimming, and cycling are proven to improve heart health and circulation, lowering blood pressure naturally.
Pre-Diabetes and Diabetes
33% of New Brunswickers live with diabetes or prediabetes, with 13% already diagnosed (source).
Exercise is a cornerstone for preventing and managing type 2 diabetes, as it regulates blood sugar levels and improves insulin sensitivity.
Depression
17.3% of New Brunswickers report experiencing depression (source).
Regular physical activity boosts mood-regulating chemicals like serotonin and endorphins, making it a first-line treatment for mild to moderate depression.
Anxiety
While provincial-specific anxiety data is limited, national trends suggest nearly 30% of Canadians experience clinical anxiety. Exercise helps by calming the nervous system, reducing stress hormones, and improving mental resilience.
The Overwhelming Burden of Chronic Illness on Hospitals
For generally healthy individuals, an unexpected trip to the emergency room—whether it’s for slicing a finger while chopping a cucumber or slipping on an icy step—can feel frustrating when faced with an 8 to 12-hour wait to see a doctor. But here’s the reality: it’s not the emergencies causing the overcrowding.
According to the data:
74.2% of hospital visits are due to chronic illnesses, not accidents or minor injuries.
Among chronic disease causes, 40% are cancers, 36.1% are cardiovascular diseases, and 14.3% are other chronic illnesses like diabetes and respiratory diseases.
These preventable conditions are overwhelming our healthcare system. Chronic diseases, many of which are linked to physical inactivity and poor lifestyle choices, are filling hospital beds and creating these long wait times. Regular exercise, combined with a healthy lifestyle, can significantly reduce your risk of these conditions, easing the burden on our hospitals and keeping you healthier in the long run.
Why Exercise can be the best prescription for New Brunswickers
The stats are clear: New Brunswick is facing a serious health crisis. But there’s good news, exercise can directly combat these issues. Here’s why it works so well:
It’s Multi-Functional: Exercise tackles physical, metabolic, and mental health simultaneously.
It’s Accessible: No prescription needed—exercise can be customized for any fitness level.
It’s Preventative: Unlike medications that treat symptoms, exercise helps prevent many conditions from developing in the first place.
And here’s the kicker, even with the current rate of inflation, exercise is still the best investment you can make. For example, take our base membership at $134.99/month. If you spent 1 hour each day for a month—even during our open gym hours, exercising on your own—it would cost you:
$4.50 per day.
The Return on Investment (ROI) of Exercise
For just $4.50 a day, here’s what you’re getting in return:
Improved physical fitness and weight management.
Reduced risk of chronic illnesses like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease.
Boosted mental health and decreased symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Increased energy levels, better sleep quality, and enhanced overall quality of life.
Long-term savings on medical bills, medications, and time lost to illness.
Need help maximizing your workouts? Explore Personal Training Options for one-on-one guidance tailored to your goals.
Now, Compare That to…
A Starbucks Latte ($5 or more per day):
ROI: A temporary caffeine boost that lasts a few hours, followed by a crash. May contribute to increased sugar intake if sweetened.
A Fast Food Combo ($15+ per day):
ROI: Short-term satisfaction, but often leads to weight gain, sluggish energy, and increased risk of heart disease and diabetes over time.
Alcoholic Drinks ($7-$15 per drink):
ROI: A fleeting sense of relaxation or social enjoyment, but long-term impacts can include disrupted sleep, weight gain, and increased risk of liver damage or addiction.
What You Can Do for Free to Improve Your Health
We get it, not everyone feels ready to invest in a gym membership or personal training. But the truth is, there are plenty of ways to improve your health that won’t cost a dime. If you can’t justify spending $4.50 a day, here are some free activities you can start today to take control of your health:
Spend More Time Outside:
Getting outside is one of the simplest ways to boost your physical and mental well-being. Spend time in the sun, even if it’s over casted, to soak up vitamin D, which plays a vital role in your mood and immune function. Go for a walk, hike, or just sit and breathe fresh air, it all counts.Move More Than You Sit:
If you spend long hours sitting, aim to get up and move for a few minutes every hour. Even light movement, like walking around the house, stretching, or doing household chores, keeps your body active and helps prevent the health risks associated with a sedentary lifestyle.Stand More Than You Sit:
If you’re stuck at a desk all day, try standing while you work. Standing desks, or even makeshift ones using a countertop, encourage better posture and help you burn more calories compared to sitting.Get Creative with Movement:
You don’t need fancy equipment to exercise. Bodyweight exercises like push-ups, squats, and planks can be done anywhere. Play with your kids, dance around the living room, or take your dog for an extra-long walk. The goal is to make movement a natural part of your daily routine.Prioritize Active Hobbies:
Gardening, cleaning, or even going out to explore a local park are excellent ways to stay active without spending money. The key is to choose activities that get you moving while bringing you joy.
If you’re not ready to step into the gym, the most important thing is to commit to moving your body in ways that feel accessible and achievable. Remember, the more you move, the better your physical and mental health will be.
Your Health is the Best Investment You Can Make
Every day, you make decisions about where to invest your time and money. If you’re buying a coffee from Tim Hortons or Starbucks every day, or grabbing takeout meals, you’re choosing to invest in those habits. Exercise is an investment in yourself—your health, your future, and your quality of life. If you don’t know where to start or need additional support, we’ve got you covered.