Swindon one of the WORST locations for fitness fanatics

A study completed by life insurance experts at Forbes Advisors has named Swindon as one of the worst places in England and Wales for fitness fanatics.

The study analysed variables which constitute towards an ideal exercising environment to create a comprehensive index which showcases the worst locations in England and Wales for fitness fanatics.

The analysed variables include: fitness facilities per 100,000 of the local population, air quality, amount of green space, average climate, and length of available cycling routes.

Swindon was named the 36th worst place for fitness fanatics, with an index score of 45.92 out of 100.

Swindon scored 10.89 per 100,000 of the local populations in terms of fitness facilities, a 13.77 air quality index, a greenspace percentage of 15.60%, a climate average of 0.47 and 24.96km of cycling routes.

Kevin Pratt, from Forbes Advisor, commented on the research: "Exercise, for many of us, is its own reward. It helps us feel better, and it gives us the energy and sense of well-being we need to set about our daily lives with a positive attitude. 

"If you live in an area that has the spaces and facilities to enable you to get plenty of exercise, that's something to celebrate.

"But even if you aren't, you can hopefully find a safe and enjoyable walking, running or cycling route nearby that will help you stay fit and on top of your game."

The study crowned Chatham as the worst location in England and Wales for exercise lovers with a score of 14.42. 

Chatham, Doncaster and Scunthorpe were named the three worst places in England and Wales for fitness fanatics

The reason for the low score for the Kent town was the lack of green space (5.17% surface area being green space) and fitness facilities (3.72 facilities per 100,000 of the population).

The second worst location was Doncaster, with a score of 21.44.

Located in Yorkshire, Doncaster performed particularly poorly for cycling, with only 3.48km of dedicated routes available for cyclists to use within the town. 

Scunthorpe was named the third worst place, with an index score of 23.06.

With only 4.76 fitness facilities per 100,000 of the local population and a greenspace percentage of 8.72% and without that many cycling routes available, the town does have things to work on to become more fitness friendly.