10 U.s. Cities Make Strides As 'best Walking Cities'

Walking is becoming one of urban Americans' favorite ways to exercise. A study conducted by the American Podiatric Medical Association shows that now more than ever, people living in cities are stepping up their walking regimens.

That's good news, considering that, on average, every minute of walking can extend your life by about two minutes.

For the study, conducted as part of its "Best Walking City Competition," the APMA surveyed 200 of the largest U.S. cities based on three walking-conducive categories: healthy lifestyles; modes of transportation; and residents' involvement in fitness and sport activities.

"The Best Walking City Competition encourages Americans living in cities to get out and walk in an effort to keep their feet and bodies fit," said Dr. Lloyd Smith, the APMA's president.

Here are the APMA's Best Walking Cities for 2005.

1. Arlington, Va.: In this city on the cusp of the nation's capital, 23 percent of workers use public transportation to get around. Thirty-five percent of Arlingtonians walk for exercise.

2. San Francisco: Getting to work by foot is not uncommon for this city by the bay: 9 percent of its residents walk and 2 percent bike to work. Furthermore, 32 percent of San Francisco's residents walk for exercise and 35 percent buy some type of athletic shoes.

3. Seattle: It's not too far-fetched to expect a healthy lifestyle from residents living in Seattle. A whopping 35 percent walk for exercise and 36 percent buy some type of athletic sho

s.

4. Portland, Ore.: Residents of this Northwestern city spend a good deal of time walking their dogs. Close to 22 percent are dog owners.

5. Boston: For many Bostonians, walking to work or using public transportation is a way of life, with 45 percent of the population doing one or the other.

6. Washington: Getting around the nation's capital by subway or bus is preferred by 35 percent of the district's residents. And when they are not working, 11 percent are playing sports or walking for fitness.

7. New York: Getting around the Big Apple is easy for New Yorkers, with 51 percent of residents using public transportation and 12 percent walking to work.

8. Eugene, Ore.: Walking is a way of life for 32 percent of Eugene residents, whether it's walking the dog or pushing a stroller. Twenty-two percent are dog owners and 8 percent own baby strollers.

9. Jersey City, N.J.: Public transportation or walking is how 47 percent of the people who work in this town get around. And when they are not working, 12 percent of the residents play sports or exercise once a week.

10. Denver: This versatile city lends itself to those in search of an active lifestyle. Eleven percent of residents walk for fitness and 12 percent play sports or exercise once a week.



By: Richard Lewis