The Active Commute Challenge (ACC) officially launched today with a group ride showcasing Thunder Bay’s multi-use trail system, including a stop at the Bike Shack, operated by Lakehead University Student Union (LUSU).
The event was co-hosted by LUSU and Lakehead’s Office of Sustainability, bringing together community leaders, partners, sponsors, and workplace champions to promote sustainable commuting. Included were remarks from partners, an overview of the challenge, and opportunities for networking, with participants connecting with event hosts to learn how to get involved.
“We are excited to continue growing this campaign and encourage more people in our community to choose sustainable transportation options,” says Leena Pehkonen, ACC Coordinator for TBDHU.
“This year marks the 5th year of the Active Commute Challenge. In 2025, 51 workplaces participated and collectively logged over 30,000 km of active commuting during June—proof that these shifts can have a meaningful impact. Thunder Bay’s extensive network of multi-use trails and active transportation routes makes it easier to choose a more intentional way of moving through the city. Opting for a trail instead of a main road can turn an everyday commute into a calmer, more scenic experience—one that encourages you to slow down, connect with your surroundings, and build movement naturally into your day.”
The ACC runs from June 1 to June 30, with workplaces across the city and District of Thunder Bay competing to log active and sustainable commutes. Over the past five years, the initiative has continued to grow, with participants reporting benefits including improved physical and mental health, reduced sedentary behaviour, enhanced work-life balance, and increased environmental awareness.
“The Active Commute Challenge is a great way for our residents to experience first-hand the benefits of active transportation,” notes Dr. Janet DeMille, Medical Officer of Health and CEO of TBDHU. “Active commuting not only helps individuals to achieve the recommended 150 minutes of physical activity per week, reducing the risk of chronic disease, but it also has positive effect on mental health, reducing stress and improving overall well-being.”
Pehkonen adds, “Modern life has quietly designed movement out of our daily routines. With increased convenience and screen-based work, Canadian adults now spend close to 10 hours a day sedentary, often without realizing it. The Active Commute Challenge encourages people to bring movement back into their day in practical ways—turning everyday travel into an opportunity to be active.”
Residents are encouraged to incorporate more movement into their daily travel by choosing walking, cycling, rolling, or transit instead of driving alone, where possible. Even small changes -such as replacing part of a trip with active travel - can help reduce sedentary time and contribute to healthier, more connected communities.
Register or learn more at TBayOnTheMove.ca and take part in the Active Commute Challenge this June.