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New Report Reveals 12 of the Best and Worst Cities in the U.S. for an Active Lifestyle

For many of us, myself included, sticking to a consistent exercise regime is top of the list for New Year’s resolutions. But it’s not always easy to focus on fitness if the place you live isn’t supportive of a healthy way of life.

A recent study highlighted some of the best cities in America for leading an active lifestyle. They have walkable streets, bike-friendly paths, public athletic fields, and easy access to hiking trails and swimming spots. Of course, not every city is hitting those goals. We’re also highlighting the cities that don’t do us any favors when trying to stay fit.

If you’re looking for the best towns for fitness and the places to avoid, here are the best and worst cities for an active lifestyle.

Best: Honolulu, Hawaii

Aerial view of Waikiki Beach in Honolulu, Hawaii
Photo credit: Fotoaray // Shutterstock.com

You don’t come to Honolulu just to lounge under the sun—this island paradise practically begs you to get moving. This island paradise is built for outdoor fun, with endless ways to keep your body moving and your spirits high. Breathe easy, too, because the air here is some of the freshest in the country.

Sports lovers will feel right at home here, with plenty of tennis courts, skate parks, baseball diamonds, and volleyball courts. And golf lovers won’t find a more stunning backdrop for your next unforgettable round.

Best: New York City, New York

The Statue of Liberty over the Scene of New york cityscape river side which location is lower manhattan,Architecture and building with tourist concept
Photo credit: TZIDO SUN // Shutterstock.com

You may be surprised to see the concrete jungle itself on this list, but being active in NYC is easier than you think. Most people walk everywhere—commuting, dining out, or exploring the city. The High Line is perfect for a scenic stroll with a friend. And it doesn’t stop there; New Yorkers search online for fitness classes and gear more than anyone else. You’ll hear locals rave about SoulCycle, Y7 yoga, and ConBody.

As the second top city for an active lifestyle, NYC has it all. Dance schools, swimming lessons, bike rentals, and sports fields are everywhere. 

Best: Chicago, Illinois 

Chicago, USA - September 6, 2017: Famous Cloud Gate also known as the Bean is one of the park's major attractions at night
Photo credit: ferita Rahayuningsih // Shutterstock.com

Who gets the most out of a city built for an active lifestyle? The kids, of course! Chicago has more playgrounds than most, making it a top family spot. But adults are in for a treat, too.

Even though the windy city has incredible food and live music, it also has plenty of activities and sports clubs to check out. With Lake Michigan right there, you can swim or stroll the beach. If you’re feeling more competitive, join the Run Club at Edge Athlete Lounge to train for a marathon! 

Best: San Francisco, California

Classic panoramic view of San Francisco skyline with famous Oakland Bay Bridge illuminated in beautiful golden evening light at sunset in summer, San Francisco Bay Area, California, USA
Editorial credit: canadastock / Shutterstock.com

You’d be surprised at how fitness-focused San Francisco is. People here walk everywhere—often up steep hills—and love biking, hiking, and enjoying the city’s beautiful outdoor spots.

There’s no shortage of activities, from cycling across the Golden Gate Bridge and rock climbing at Mission Cliffs to hiking the Lands End Trail or surfing at Ocean Beach. You can also try a yoga class in Golden Gate Park. Just a heads-up: gym memberships can be pricey in the Bay Area!

Best: San Diego, California

Downtown San Diego, California USA.
Editorial credit: Dancestrokes / Shutterstock.com

If you’re into fitness, San Diego delivers both outdoor charm and indoor amenities. You can work up a sweat while enjoying amazing beaches, cycling, rock climbing, and the perfect climate for hiking year-round.

Gyms here make it easy to try new workouts, with free trials and intro classes. Ocean Pacific Gym & Wellness, for example, combines fitness with beach vibes, offering an outdoor workout area steps from the ocean. And if running’s your thing, the annual Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon is a must—complete with races and a post-run concert!

Best: Las Vegas, Nevada

LAS VEGAS, USA - JANUARY 4, 2020: New Year celebration fireworks on Las Vegas strip on January 4, 2020 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Las Vegas is home to the largest hotels and casinos in the world.
Photo credit: Lucky-photographer // Shutterstock.com

Vegas is known for its nightlife, but who says you can’t stay fit, too?  The city ranks high for fitness, with great options for staying in shape, from budget-friendly gyms to plenty of sporting goods stores. You can try a pilates class, yoga, or even martial arts. Plus, Vegas pools are perfect for swimming or unwinding after a workout.

Honestly, walking the Strip is a fun way to explore while getting a bit of exercise. For a change of scenery, check out the hikes and trails outside Vegas that offer a whole new experience.

Worst: North Las Vegas, Nevada

An aerial view of North Las Vegas.
Photo credit: Wirestock Creators // Shutterstock.com

While it’s close to Las Vegas, it’s not as focused on fitness. North Las Vegas has fewer gyms and tennis courts, making it harder to stay active compared to its neighbor. The suburban layout here isn’t ideal for walking, so you’ll likely need a car for most errands. 

Don’t forget about the heat! North Las Vegas’s desert climate can make outdoor activities a real drag, especially during the scorching summer months when temperatures exceed 100°F. So, if you’re looking for a place to easily stay active, you might want to reconsider North Las Vegas.

Worst: Winston-Salem, North Carolina

Winston-Salem North Carolina NC Skyline Aerial.
Photo credit: Kevin Ruck // Shutterstock.com

Winston-Salem doesn’t exactly make it easy to stay active. It’s low on fitness facilities like gyms and yoga studios, so it’s harder to find places to work out. No surprise that it’s one of the best places to retire—relaxation often takes precedence over gym sessions. 

Walking isn’t an option beyond a few spots in downtown and nearby areas. But if you’re up for a drive, a 30-minute trip takes you to wine country or Pilot Mountain, where you can enjoy some serious hiking.

Worst: Gilbert, Arizona

July 28, 2022, Gilbert, Arizona, USA. Gilbert water tower. Suburb of Phoenix Arizona.
Photo credit: Manuela Durson // Shutterstock.com

Gilbert may have the most public golf courses, but when it comes to sports facilities, the numbers are low. It ranks near the bottom for basketball hoops, tennis courts, and playgrounds per capita.

The good news is Gilbert is perfect for enjoying the great outdoors, especially with nearly 300 sunny days each year. The Riparian Preserve, a 110-acre wetland and wildlife sanctuary, is a local favorite for daytime walks. Warning, though—air quality can be an issue, especially in the warmer months due to dust and emissions.

Worst: Irving, Texas

Irving, TX / USA - October 10 2020: The apartments, hotels and shopping surround the business district of Las Colinas in Irving Texas
Photo credit: Tallmaple // Shutterstock.com

Hot summers in Irving can make outdoor activities a challenge, and the city isn’t exactly bursting with fitness options. It has some of the lowest numbers of basketball hoops and tennis courts per capita, so options feel limited.

If you’re determined to stay active, Irving’s parks and trails are worth exploring. The Campion Trail offers scenic paths perfect for walking, running, or cycling. For something different, try kayaking or paddleboarding at Lake Carolyn or the Mandalay Canal.

Worst: Corpus Christi, Texas

Corpus Christi, TX, USA - 8-2-24, aerial landscape view of area around Texas State Aquarium located next to Harbor Bridge and skyline of Corpus Christi Downtown in background
Photo credit: Mario Hagen // Shutterstock.com

Windsurfing, sailing, and kiteboarding are some of the outdoor fun offered by the Sparkling City by the Sea. But when it comes to fitness centers or public golf courses, there isn’t much to offer in Corpus Christi. With the fifth fewest golf courses per capita, staying active beyond water sports can take a little creativity.

The outlook isn’t all that bright either. Local health officials report a 40% obesity rate in Nueces County, and projections suggest 75% of Texans may be overweight by 2040. Unhealthy food plays a role, but the lack of physical activity doesn’t help.

Worst: Aurora, Colorado

Colorado Living. Aurora, Colorado - Denver Metro Area Residential Panorama with the view of a Pikes Peak mountain in the distance
Photo credit: Faina Gurevich // Shutterstock.com

You’d think a city surrounded by the stunning Rocky Mountains would be a fitness paradise, right? Well, Aurora may not have the best stats for fitness centers or sports facilities, making it difficult to find convenient options for regular exercise or recreational sports. It’s ranked as one of the worst cities for an active lifestyle, but there’s still hope if you love the outdoors.

You can go hiking, biking, or on camping adventures. Winters here are no joke, though—icy roads, heavy snow, and freezing temps. Plus, air quality issues from nearby industrial areas can sometimes damper outdoor plans.

Source: WalletHub

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