Every year, new data remind us that where we live shapes how we live and how much we move. Physical activity is not limited to gym memberships or fitness trends. It is about access, environment, safety, culture, and community support. According to a study by Reverse Health, the gap between the most active and least active states is wider than many people realize.
The Top 10 Most Active States
Many states are showing what is physically possible when communities have access to safe spaces, outdoor culture, and health‑supportive environments. In 2024, Colorado was named the most physically active state, with 84.37% of adults reporting regular physical activity.
Right behind Colorado are more states known for mountains, trails, and strong outdoor lifestyles:
- Colorado – 84.37%
- Vermont – 84.04%
- Utah – 83.24%
- Washington – 82.61%
- Minnesota – 82.52%
- Alaska – 81.85%
- New Hampshire – 81.44%
- Massachusetts – 81.18%
- Oregon – 81.00%
- Montana – 80.90%
Many have seen steady increases in physical activity since 2019, ultimately showing that recovery and renewed interest in physical movement are possible. The interaction among geography, culture, infrastructure, demography, and public policy that together supports physical activity, healthy food access, and lower cardiometabolic risk helps create a thriving space for physical activity.
The Bottom 10 Least Active States
On the other end of the spectrum, states in the South continue to face barriers that make physical activity harder. This ranges from fewer walkable neighborhoods to limited access to parks and recreation.
The least active state in 2024 is Mississippi, where only 69.36% of adults report regular physical activity. That is a full 15-percentage-point gap from Colorado, and it is not accidental.
Here are the bottom 10:
- Mississippi – 69.36%
- West Virginia – 71.32%
- Arkansas – 71.47%
- Kentucky – 72.03%
- Alabama – 72.35%
- Oklahoma – 72.35%
- Louisiana – 72.39%
- Delaware – 74.81%
- Texas – 74.87%
- Florida – 75.04%
Data on Mississippi’s lack of physical activity indicate that it is related to limited time, social support, fear of injury, affordability, and the availability of facilities. To explore ways to overcome barriers to physical activity, click here.
Even though these states rank lowest, many have made meaningful progress since 2019, especially Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Louisiana, which have all seen notable increases in activity levels.
What This Tells Us
The gap between the most active and least active states is not just about personal choice. It reflects:
- Access to safe outdoor spaces
- Walkability and transportation
- Community investment in parks and recreation
- Cultural norms around movement
- Economic barriers
- Climate and geography
It is important to note that these barriers are layered with historical inequities, fewer health-supportive resources, and higher rates of chronic disease. To learn more about overcoming barriers to physical activity, click here.
Barriers to Healthy Eating and Physical Activity in the Mississippi Delta – PMC
Overcoming Barriers to Physical Activity | CDC
Steps for Getting Started With Physical Activity | Healthy Weight and Growth | CDC
Why Colorado Has Low Obesity Rates and What It Means for Your Health