Occupational Challenges for Physical Fitness in Canadian Federal Correctional Services: “If You Are Not in Good Shape,People Can Die”

Abstract

Effective service delivery by correctional officers (COs) requires timely responses to critical incidents, making physical fitness essential. Research across public safety sectors links regular exercise to improved mental well-being, job satisfaction, and self-esteem. However, little qualitative research has examined how fitness shapes COs’ experiences, addresses the occupational barriers tied to exercising, and assesses its impact on officer mental and social well-being. This study analyzes 126 interviews with federal COs employed by Correctional Service Canada (CSC) to address this gap. The study explores the evolution of fitness experiences over the course of officers’ careers, the degree to which fitness supports well-being and performance, and the structural challenges to fitness practices in correctional environments. The article concludes with recommendations to strengthen CO fitness opportunities and outlines policy changes CSC could implement to support officer wellness and retention.

Keywords

prisons correctional officers physical fitness correctional services Canada

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