How Global Cities Are Encouraging Healthier Lifestyles

The fitness industry has transformed from being unorganised to becoming a well-structured system with qualified trainers, appropriate equipment, and set schedules. This has made it easier for people to include exercise in their daily routines, leading to a boom in the number of fitness centre memberships.

According to a report by CII-Deloitte India, the fitness industry in India was expected to be worth over USD 1.1 billion by 2017. The Indian government's ‘Make in India’ campaign has provided a further boost by recognising wellness as a key sector. This growth is seen not just in big cities but also in smaller towns and villages. Companies and offices have also contributed by setting up fitness centres for their employees. Hotels now offer gyms and spas to meet the needs of health-conscious guests, and modern housing societies often include gyms.

Globally, some communities have made lifestyle changes, like cities that only allow bikes on roads on certain days, to promote healthier living and reduce pollution. Let's explore a few of these healthy initiatives across the world:

1. Open Gyms in Noida, India

Despite enjoying some of the finest indoor gyms, the desire for an open-air fitness centre has its own irresistible allure. Exercising in a lush, green environment with fresh air is provides a truly holistic fitness experience. The Noida authority has built open gyms in at least 35 parks across the city for residents to use, free of charge.

These gyms feature fitness equipment such as air walkers, air swings, parallel bars, cross walkers, pull chairs, horse riders, sit-up stations, and rowing machines. The equipment provided is suitable for all age groups.

2. Car-Free Day in Jakarta, Indonesia

Car-Free Day is an initiative in many cities worldwide, including Jakarta, Indonesia. Held every Sunday, the event aims to promote sustainability, reduce traffic congestion, and create a healthier environment by temporarily banning motorised vehicles from certain streets. This event encourages people to walk, cycle, use public transportation, and participate in activities promoting a healthy lifestyle. Car-Free Day also raises awareness about the negative impacts of excessive car usage, such as air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and noise pollution. The event often includes recreational activities, sports, street performances, and community gatherings, creating a festive and inclusive atmosphere.

3. Mobile Gyms for Women in Mumbai, India

To promote physical fitness among women, MuBrihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) in Mumbai has introduced mobile gyms in Mumbai. Housed in a bus equipped with exercise equipment, these gyms will cater to the fitness needs of women, especially those in poorer neighbourhoods. The bus has a female driver, attendant, and trainer on board. The trainers educate women about physical fitness and guide them through simple exercises. Each mobile gym visits different neighbourhoods daily, making fitness accessible to women who find it challenging to prioritise their health due to their busy lifestyles.

4. Bicycle Infrastructure in Amsterdam, Netherlands

In 2022, Amsterdam unveiled a comprehensive plan to improve bicycle infrastructure and parking to accommodate the city's growing population. The plan includes building additional bike routes, expanding existing cycle tracks, constructing low-speed cycle lanes, and redesigning major intersections to provide more protected cycling space. These measures aim to reduce congestion during rush hour and promote safer, more efficient cycling throughout the city.

5. Water Walking in France

The seaside sport of longe-côte, or water walking, has gained popularity in over a hundred French resorts along the North Sea, the Channel, the Atlantic, and the Mediterranean. This sport involves walking in the sea with the water level between the hips and sternum. Practiced year-round, longe-côte provides extra cardio and muscle training. Invented by Thomas Wallyn in 2004 for his rowing club, the sport quickly spread, leading to the formation of clubs around the coast. It became an official sport with competitions organised by the Fédération Française de la Randonnée Pédestre.