Discover America’s Fittest Cities: Did Your Town Make The List?

Discover America’s Fittest Cities: Did Your Town Make The List?

Achieving fitness goals is more than just willpower; it’s about where you live! Communities with parks, bike trails, and green spaces make a big difference. Some cities excel in these areas, and the annual American Fitness Index reveals which ones lead the pack.

Released by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and the Elevance Health Foundation, this index ranks the 100 largest U.S. cities on 33 health indicators. These include how often people walk or bike to work, public park spending, food security, smoking rates, and mental health.

Meet the Top Three: Arlington, D.C., and Seattle

This year, Arlington, Virginia, Washington, D.C., and Seattle are the fittest cities in the U.S. Shantanu Agrawal, Chief Health Officer at Elevance Health, highlights the influence of a supportive environment. “A community’s surroundings and social support systems are crucial for overall health,” Agrawal says.

A World Health Organization study found that many adults aren’t getting enough exercise, increasing their risk of serious health problems. The ACSM recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity weekly, but only 51% of adults meet this goal. The aim is for 80% to reach it.

Arlington’s Winning Streak

Arlington, Virginia, takes the top spot for the seventh consecutive year. The city boasts extensive parks, bike paths, and trails, with 88% of residents reporting recent exercise. Arlington also excels in sleep quality and has the nation’s lowest smoking rate.

Washington D.C. and Seattle Shine

Washington D.C. comes in second, with residents excelling in fruit and vegetable consumption and active commuting. Seattle ranks third, thanks to high public spending on parks and a culture of physical activity.

Mental Health Matters

The index also emphasizes mental health as a key component of overall wellness. Nearly 45% of people nationwide reported poor mental health in the past month. Access to mental health services is crucial, and ACSM President Stella Volpe underscores the need for comprehensive care. “Physical health, mental health, and diet are interconnected,” Agrawal says. “True fitness requires a focus on all aspects of health.”

Room for Improvement

Oklahoma City ranks at the bottom, with Port St. Lucie, Florida; Memphis; Wichita; and North Las Vegas also in the lowest ranks. These results highlight the disparities in health amenities and the need for more community investments.

The American Fitness Index shows the importance of supportive environments in achieving health goals. So, how does your city measure up? Time to check the rankings and get moving!