Did Your City Make the List? Best/Worst Cities for Active Lifestyles

I have to admit. I read the best and worst lists, but rarely agree with them, and until now, I have never written about them. But, they do make me think about the pros and cons of each cities’ circumstances, and ultimately whether I agree with the report or not.

2018’s Best and Worst Cities for an Active Lifestyle was published today by Wallethub. Such a report is certainly timely – with all the weight and fitness New Years’ resolutions people make (sadly, only to be forgotten a few weeks later).

To determine where Americans have the best chance of balancing a healthy diet with ample physical activity, WalletHub compared the 100 biggest U.S. cities across 34 key metrics. The data set ranges from average monthly fitness-club fee to bike score to share of physically inactive adults.

Here’s a quick synopsis:

You can see more information on the actual report. What is your reaction to this report?

With the exception of Boise, Idaho, I have visited and even run marathons in almost all of the top ten best active lifestyle cities listed above. I have to say, in each of these cities, I found the running invigorating and the scenery spectacular.

I think that I am most surprised to see Jersey City on the worst list – I have participated in great races in Jersey City, as well as beautiful solo runs.

Perhaps the important point is not which cities made the best and worst list (though it is certainly fun to read the report) but trying this year to keep our self-improvement resolutions alive for the entire year and encouraging and inspiring others to remain focused on health and wellness. Are you with me?

A little encouragement goes a long way!