The Heart and Stroke Foundation says Canadians are so focused on the here and now that they are losing out on living a full and healthy life.

Its survey found that even though Canadians know how to protect their heart health, most can't or won't commit the time to do so.

Eight out of 10 Canadians know heart disease and stroke can be prevented, postponed or treated by making healthy lifestyle choices.

But they seem to focus instead on barriers rather than opportunities.

Almost half of the 2,000 Canadians surveyed cited long work days and lack of time as a reason for not getting active on a regular basis.

Between work, family and other obligations, 44 per cent said they have no time for regular physical activity.

"The challenge of finding time is a reality for most working Canadians, or those with competing obligations," said Dr. Beth Abramson, cardiologist and foundation spokeswoman.

"But tackling the time dilemma is absolutely critical. We must make the effort to find time now to do the things that will give us the greatest health benefits."