Hoosier Cities Weigh Down ‘Fit City’ List
American Fitness Index Ranking 100 Most Fit Cities
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowTwo Indiana cities made the ACSM American Fitness Index Ranking of the 100 most fit cities in America. The list, compiled in Indianapolis by the American College of Sports Medicine and the Anthem Foundation, uses 33 indicators to rank the cities.
Scores were devised by gauging health behaviors such as the percentage of the population who exercised in the last 30 days, percentage who smoke, and how many eat fruits and vegetables each day, among others. The behaviors are combined with health outcomes such as, percentage with asthma, obesity, and those who reported poor mental health. Other factors used to compile the rankings are: acres of parkland, percentage using public transit, percentage of population living within a 10 minute walk, number of recreational facilities, and policies and funding.
Fort Wayne ranks 84th on the list, with Indianapolis following at number 99.
Indianapolis finished with a personal health rank of 95, and a community health rank of 90. Ft. Wayne’s personal health rank was 81 and they were number 85 in community health rank. Indianapolis was prominently featured in the report for its Cultural Trail, which the report indicates is responsible for creating 11,372 jobs. Indy was also lauded for the over 200 miles of bike lanes planned over the next 12 years, and for being ranked in the top ten best complete streets policy awarded by the National Complete Streets Coalition.
“As we create places and experiences that inspire, Indy Parks wants to be seen as a leader in health and wellness efforts. Every day, our team offers a variety of fitness options for residents young and old to get and stay healthy. From biking, walking, and running on our 135 miles of trails to taking a water aerobics class to simply discovering ways to exercise in one or all of our 211 parks, Indy Parks is doing its part to help children and their families live healthier lives.” said Linda Broadfoot, director, Indy Parks and Recreation
Arlington, VA edged out Minneapolis, MN for the title of most "Fit City". A list of cities, and an interactive map, can be found here . For the full rankings, click here.