Where you live plays an important role in getting—and staying—in shape. In the right city, being fit isn’t a chore; when its core to the community around you, it simply becomes a way of life. Whether you’re planning to join a gym or exercise outside, these are the best cities to get fit in 2018.
1. Salt Lake City, UT
Salt Lake City is perfect for sports and outdoor enthusiasts. Utah’s capital has the most sports teams and leagues as well as the most sporting goods stores per household. Locals love to hike, bike, and snowboard in the nearby Wasatch Mountains, which are teeming with valley trails and ski resorts. With activities ranging from bobsledding in Olympic Park to year-round river rafting and amenities like convenient bike lanes in the city center, there’s something for everyone in Salt Lake City.
2. West Palm Beach, FL
Photo: Palm Beach Post
With a temperate climate and year-round sunshine, West Palm Beach residents have plenty of opportunities to enjoy a variety of outdoor recreation. This spot in the Sunshine State and its immediate surrounding area has dedicated 15 percent of its land to green space, beaches, and landmarks. With miles of trails in Okeeheelee Park, more than 160 golf courses, and neighborhoods like nearby Wellington, known for its horseback riding and polo fields, West Palm Beach has plenty of outdoor activities.
3. Orange County, CA
Photo: CBS Los Angeles
Orange County boasts the ultimate SoCal lifestyle. They have 42 miles of beaches for sun-soaked days as well as sprawling wilderness and nature parks. A full 14 percent of public land consists of green space and landmarks. From surfing in Laguna Beach and kayaking in Newport Harbor to and hiking in Peters Canyon Regional Park and Crystal Cove State Park, it’s no wonder that 85 percent of residents say they’ve exercised in the last month.
4. Seattle, WA
Photo: Seattle Met
This urban city surrounded by natural beauty inspires residents to get outside on their daily commute. There’s no shortage of ways to get out and explore this nature-filled mecca. Seattle boasts spectacular hiking trails abound in the wilderness areas of Discovery Park, Mount Si, and Mount Rainier. They also have numerous water trails for kayakers along the coastline. Cyclists and runners love the 27-mile Burke-Gilman Trail that traverses the city and health food gurus have access to a 7-acre community food gardens n the Beacon Hill neighborhood.
5. Fort Lauderdale, FL
Photo: MyFortLauderdaleBeach
It’s easy to find space to enjoy the outdoors in Fort Lauderdale. 37 percent of public land in Fort Lauderdale is dedicated to green space that everyone can enjoy. Greater Fort Lauderdale is the gateway to the Everglades, where Florida’s wilderness is easily accessible. Kayakers enjoy the serenity of the coastal waters, golfers enjoy more than 40 courses throughout the city, and cyclists zip along scenic routes. Take a stroll on Hollywood Boardwalk or Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard and enjoy all that Fort Lauderdale has to offer.
