15 Fittest Cities in the United States

I’m a huge advocate of exercising – especially running – while vacationing or traveling in general. And traveling to health-conscious, activity-friendly cities makes exercising that much easier. But a healthy or fit city is more than just having great weather, plenty of hiking trails, bike lanes and outdoor space to exercise. It’s about the wholistic mindset of health, providing the necessary means and support to help a community and individuals become and remain fit and healthy.

Recently, the American College of Sports Medicine released their American Fitness Index, which ranks cities based on their community fitness level, which is also tied to fitness on an individual level. Cities that ranked at the top of the index have more strengths and resources that support healthy living and fewer hurdles to get there. The opposite is true for cities ranking at the bottom of the index.

For the fourth consecutive year, Arlington, VA was named America’s fittest city, with nearly 86% of adults reported exercising in the past month, followed by Minneapolis, Seattle, Denver and Madison, WI. Arlington and Minneapolis also ranked in the top 5 for both Personal Health and Community/Environment scores.

Bottom line, if you are looking for a vacation spot, a weekend destination or even a new place to call home – especially one that is aligned with your fitness goals or overall healthy lifestyle – consider any one of the top 15 Fittest Cities listed below.

ACSM American Fitness Index Top 15 Fittest Cities