Jan 20, 2026 - News
Colorado among the most active states in the U.S.
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The claim that many Coloradans enjoy an active, outdoorsy lifestyle isn't just a stereotype — it's backed by data.
The big picture: The state with the lowest obesity rate in the U.S. also leads the nation for physical activity and exercise beyond work, per a new report.
- The findings are highlighted in the United Health Foundation's "America's Health Rankings" and based on 2024 U.S. Department of Health and Human Services data.
State of play: Even moderate exercise can have tremendous benefits for your physical and mental well-being, research has found.
- However, about one in five Americans report no physical activity or exercise outside of their job requirements, the report shows.
Zoom in: That share is much lower in Washington, D.C. (13.9%), Colorado (15.6%) and Vermont (16%).
- Meanwhile, Mississippi (30.6%), West Virginia (28.7%) and Arkansas (28.5%) have the highest (no data was available for Tennessee).