Communities Built for Active Living Have Healthier Residents
An investment in the built environment in your community is an investment in your health. Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index reports communities that have walkability, bike-ability, transit infrastructure and park infrastructure (the markers of an active living community) can significantly lower obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and rates of depression than do residents of communities with comparatively little active living infrastructure. They also report better exercise habits and lower levels of smoking. Albert Lea, MN, and Marion, IA are among the cities highlighted for their successes.
