Do you have trouble exercising? If you’re relocating soon, consider moving to a fitter part of the country to help motivate you to be more active. According to a study by the Center for Disease control, Colorado is America’s fittest state. When you consider the number of fitness centers and city parks in Denver plus parks in the Rocky Mountains, it seems obvious why. Denver residents are much too busy enjoying biking trails and mountains to sit on the couch, eating potato chips. Surrounding yourself with a fit community is a great way to get in shape.
Parks and Recreation Centers
The beautiful outdoors calls to Denver residents, keeping them off their couches. Denver has more than 850 miles of paved, off-road biking and jogging trails through scenic areas. Many city streets are also jogger and biker friendly.
There are several parks and playgrounds located throughout the city. “Seventy-eight percent of Denver residents live within 10 minutes of a park,” said a 2013 ParkScore study. And Denver intends to add more parks to the city.
Travel a little way outside the city to spend time in the Rocky Mountains. The Rocky Mountain National Park contains more than 300 miles of hiking trails. See wildflowers and wildlife, all while being active!
Walkable City
Denver is a walkable city, meaning that you can probably walk to just about anything you need. Many attractions, restaurants and shopping centers are located within walking distance of Denver apartments. The 16th Street Mall in Denver is more than a mile long and contains more than 350 stores and restaurants. The Belmar Outdoor Shopping district is also a great place for shoppers to get some exercise in with their shopping. Combining exercise with recreation is an amazing way to keep active.
Winter Recreation
With outdoor recreation like walkable shopping centers and scenic parks, you may be wondering what Denver residents do in winter. Many take up additional indoor activities such as indoor climbing, running at an indoor track, yoga or Pilates. There are also winter sports available such as skiing, snow-boarding and ice skating. If a new activity doesn’t spark your interest, consider cold-weather walking or running.
High Altitude
Denver’s high altitude can also make you fitter. Being at a high altitude can make your body work harder to get oxygen to your muscles. This leads to better athletic performance. Studies have also shown that high altitudes may also increase the hormone Leptin, which reduces appetite. Some scientists have also theorized that muscle metabolism is increased at higher altitudes. These studies are not conclusive yet, but the possible benefits may be worth trying out.
If you’re stuck in a routine without exercise, moving somewhere with a more active culture can help you get motivated. Once you have an exercise routine, it’ll be easier to stick to it. Whether you love to walk while shopping or spend time jogging on a scenic trail, you can find a way to be active in Denver.
