One puzzling finding from the 1995 Physical Activity Monitor is that while Canadians have increased their physical activity levels to 37% from 21% since 1981, they have become fatter.

According to the Monitor, conducted by the Canadian Fitness and Lifestyle Research Institute, 26% of Canadian adults over 18 are at increased risk of developing health problems because of excess weight. The proportion of overweight Canadians increases with age and is highest among Canadians aged 45 to 64, 37% of whom are now considered overweight.

Comparisons with the 1985 and 1991 General Social Survey show a substantial increase over the past decade in the overall percentage of Canadians between 20 and 64 who are overweight. While the increase occurred among both men and women, it has been greatest among men. Not only are there more overweight men than women (31% versus 21%), but the percentage of men who have a healthy weight is also decreasing at a faster rate than it is among women.

The proportion of men with a healthy weight has decreased steadily, from 52% in 1985 to 38% in 1995. At the same time, the proportion of men who are overweight has increased by almost 10 percentage points. In comparison, the proportion of overweight women has risen by about 7 percentage points. On the bright side, the number of underweight women has dropped to 13% from 20% during the same period.

What can be done to reverse the trend toward obesity? The Institute's survey shows that the most active Canadians are the least likely to be overweight, and that those who are sedentary or active at only a low level are the most likely to be so. About half of active Canadians are at the recommended weight, compared with just 38% of sedentary Canadians.

Participating frequently in physical activity also helps to maintain a healthy weight. People who are active at least every other day, regardless of intensity or duration of activity, are less likely to be overweight and more likely to have a healthy weight than those who are less frequently active.

These findings are encouraging for both individuals who are currently active and those who are less frequently active but are contemplating increasing their participation. Just getting out and doing something at least every other day increases your chances of being at the recommended weight for your height. In adopting regular activity,

expect and aim for long-term improvements in your body composition rather than a "quick fix" — a habit of physical activity will pay lifelong dividends;

remember that activity sometimes improves body composition without showing any effect on body weight, because it increases muscle mass, which weighs more than fat mass;

shift emphasis from your weight to other goals, such as enjoyable physical activity and a positive body image. More important than focusing your energies on weight is to feel well and live in a body healthy enough to enjoy life's pursuits.