Recently, Gallup published its list of the fittest cities in America. Boulder, Colo., tops the list as the fittest in the United States and cities in West Virginia, Kentucky and Ohio tie as the least fit cities. Gallup based its findings on obesity rates. While I’m not sure that measuring obesity is the only way to determine a city’s wellness (for example, Boulder may have thin inhabitants, but that does not mean they exercise), the findings do highlight the importance of wellness programs in the U.S. Last year, the American obesity rate jumped to 27.1 percent—the highest Gallup has recorded since 2008.
Despite a spike in the obesity rate, the U.S. seems to have increased its push for fitness. The fashion industry (famed for supporting unhealthy body standards for women and men) is showing interest in health and exercise with brands like Urban Outfitters adding fitness attire to their lines. Plus, local and national governments and corporations are starting wellness programs to keep citizens and employees healthy. Here’s how to get your piece of workout wealth and add some fashion to your fitness programs.
For the Fittest Cities and Companies
Cities like Boulder, Colo., Naples, Fla., and San Diego are already committed to being healthy, so give them something to add to their collection of fitness products. Bike accessories like a trail odometer and men’s and women’s apparel work well for people biking to work or riding on trails for exercise.
For the Least Fit Cities and Companies
These cities and companies are just getting started with wellness promotions or what they have done has not worked. Energize their health programs by offering brochures on men’s and women’s health and basic workout gear like wicking pullovers.
For Anyone Who Exercises
From 100-time marathon runners to new gym members, every exerciser needs two things: a water bottle and sneakers. Since everyone has different needs in a sneaker (high arches, IT band tears and other leg and foot issues come to mind), suggest some fun laces. Add in a wellness monitor to allow users to track their health at the gym, in the office or at home.
