As 2024 draws to a close, the World Population Review’s worldwide health and fitness trends offer intriguing new information on nations’ fitness ratings.
A nation’s citizens can maintain their fitness and live longer, healthier lives if it has supporting public policies, easily available healthcare, and infrastructure that promotes mobility.
Based on a combination of physical activity, healthcare quality, lifestyle choices, and public health policy, these 10 nations have the best overall fitness scores.
1. Singapore – 95.3
With an impressive fitness score of 95.3, Singapore is at the top of the list. Singapore is renowned for having an effective healthcare system that prioritizes community-based health programs and preventive care. Regular exercise is also encouraged, with an emphasis on urban planning and public areas that are conducive to fitness. With initiatives like “Healthier SG” and “National Steps Challenge,” the government encourages an active lifestyle, and many Singaporeans engage in organized fitness activities.
2. Japan – 95.1
Japan, with a score of 95.1, comes in second. The Japanese place a high value on balance, eating a diet high in vegetables and seafood and low in processed foods. Furthermore, walking and bicycling are essential parts of Japanese everyday life, which helps explain their high levels of fitness. Another important factor contributing to Japan’s long life expectancy and low obesity rates is public health education and early preventive care.
3. South Korea – 94.3
Community events and health initiatives have a significant impact on South Korea’s fitness culture. With a 94.3 fitness score, South Korea encourages active living through everything from city parks with workout equipment to gyms and fitness facilities. Fermented foods and vegetables are the mainstay of the traditional Korean diet, which promotes a healthy weight and offers vital minerals.
4. Taiwan – 94.2
Taiwan maintains excellent levels of fitness with a score of 94.2 thanks to its emphasis on public exercise centers and preventive healthcare. Taiwan also has the advantages of an effective healthcare system that prioritizes accessibility and motivates people to lead healthy lives. People of all ages are encouraged to exercise by the abundance of public parks and fitness activities.
5. Israel – 94.2
With a populace active in sports, hiking, and outdoor pursuits, Israel matches with Taiwan’s score of 94.2. Lean proteins, veggies, and olive oil are all abundant in the Israeli diet, which is a component of the Mediterranean lifestyle and promotes cardiovascular health. Israel’s public health programs promote exercise, which keeps people’s general levels of fitness stable.
6. Norway – 93.6
Norway receives a score of 93.6, which reflects a culture that, in spite of harsh weather, cherishes being outside all year round. Regular activities for Norwegians include cycling, hiking, and skiing. Norway’s emphasis on work-life balance makes time for exercise, while the country’s healthcare regulations prioritize mental health and preventive treatment, both of which raise fitness levels.
7. Iceland – 93.5
Iceland has a 93.5 fitness score and a culture that values outdoor recreation and team sports. The Icelandic diet, which is high in fish and low in processed foods, promotes general heath, and Icelanders enjoy the benefits of clean air and water. Important aspects of fitness, such as stress management and mental health, are also highly valued in Iceland.
8. Sweden – 93.4
Large green areas and public fitness centers are advantages for Sweden, which scored 93.4. The Nordic diet, which is high in whole grains, root vegetables, and fish, is frequently followed by the Swedish way of life, which encourages balanced nutrition. High levels of fitness across all age groups are further supported by Sweden’s emphasis on work-life balance and easily available healthcare.
9. Switzerland – 93.1
Switzerland cherishes both mental and physical health, as evidenced by its 93.1 score. The Swiss are renowned for their passion for mountaineering, trekking, and skiing. Switzerland’s low-stress environment, which is bolstered by clean cities, safe neighborhoods, and access to nature, is influenced by its excellent healthcare system, emphasis on nutrition, and other factors.
10. Netherlands – 92.8
The Netherlands, with a score of 92.8, completes the list. In the Netherlands, cycling plays a significant role in daily life and contributes to high levels of physical exercise. Public health regulations encourage wellness through facilities like bike lanes and accessible gyms, and the Dutch diet is well-balanced. From family vacations to business commutes, the Dutch place a high value on physical fitness.
