The Thunder Bay District Health Unit has launched its 2026 Active Commute Challenge, calling on residents across the city and district to walk, bike, or use sustainable travel for their daily commutes throughout June.
A group ride on June 1 marked the start of the month-long event, rolling along Thunder Bay’s multi-use trails and making a stop at the Bike Shack, a student-led cycling hub run by the Lakehead University Student Union. The challenge is now in its fifth year.
Workplaces across the region compete to log the most active commutes. Last year, 51 local workplaces took part, together covering more than 30,000 kilometres under their own power during the month. Organizers see that number as proof that small daily changes add up.
Health unit staff point to a worrying trend: Canadian adults now spend close to 10 hours a day sitting, often without noticing it. Building a walk or bike ride into the morning commute helps people reach the recommended 150 minutes of weekly physical activity. That lowers the risk of chronic illness and can ease stress while lifting overall well-being.
Thunder Bay now has about 56 kilometres of multi-use trails, plus more than 42 kilometres of bike lanes and shared lanes. The city’s growing network makes it easier for residents to leave the car at home, whether they are heading to work, school, or errands.
The Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre has been a steady participant, joining the challenge for at least five years in a row. Its continued involvement highlights how local institutions are weaving active transportation into a broader push for workplace wellness.
The Active Commute Challenge runs until June 30. Residents and workplaces can find registration details and tracking tools on the health unit’s website.
