As more Americans lace up their sneakers and head outside, the 2025 American Fitness Index paints a picture of progress — and warning. Published by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and the Elevance Health Foundation, this year’s ranking of the 100 largest U.S. cities reveals strong gains in physical activity across the country, with 94 cities reporting improvements in aerobic fitness and more residents hitting strength-training targets.
But behind the good news, experts are raising red flags about rising food insecurity and worsening air quality, driven largely by wildfire smoke and post-pandemic shifts in federal aid.
Top 5 Fittest Cities in the U.S. — 2025
Arlington, Virginia
Holding the crown once again, Arlington tops the list for its blend of personal health metrics and community environment. High activity levels, widespread access to parks, and low smoking rates keep it in gold-medal form.Washington, D.C.
The nation’s capital ranks #1 in trail mileage, with a sprawling network of walking and biking paths. Green spaces and infrastructure for active commuting give D.C. a fitness-first advantage.Seattle, Washington
Despite weather variability, Seattle residents stay moving. The city boasts top-three rankings in both personal and community health, with high strength and aerobic activity rates.San Francisco, California
Low chronic disease rates and high levels of active transportation (walking, cycling) keep San Francisco near the top. Healthy eating habits also help its residents thrive.Denver, Colorado
Surrounded by natural beauty, Denver continues to benefit from its active culture and ample park space, ranking consistently high in aerobic engagement.
Fitness Is Rising — But So Are Threats
Aerobic activity increased nearly 9% nationwide.
Smoking rates dropped by 2.6% across 73 cities.
Per capita park spending rose in 64 cities, signaling long-term investment in wellness infrastructure.
However, 99 of 100 cities reported a rise in food insecurity, a concerning trend linked to the rollback of pandemic-era support programs. Add in wildfire-related air pollution affecting large swaths of the Midwest and Northeast, and the progress feels increasingly fragile.
“Healthy living starts where we live, learn, work and play,” says Dr. Stella Volpe, Chair of the Fitness Index Advisory Board. “Every city has the potential to become a healthier, more active community — but it takes commitment, data-driven action, and continued momentum.”
New Data, New Priorities
The 2025 Index introduced trail mileage, splashpads, and expanded tracking of dual-use courts (like tennis and pickleball) — reflecting evolving recreational habits.
D.C. led in total trail mileage.
Boston topped the chart in splashpads.
Richmond, VA led in multi-use courts.
Cities like Sacramento made the biggest leap — jumping 23 spots thanks to renewed investments in parks and access. Meanwhile, San Diego rejoined the top 10 with improved strength metrics and expanded shared-use facilities.
photo Maciej Cieslak from Pixabay
