Study: Alabama ranks No. 5 for being in the worst shape in America

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Alabamians are proud of their sports teams with chants of “We’re number one” ringing from the mountains to the Gulf.

However, a recent study by RunReviews.com shows the state is highly ranked in something that isn’t a source of pride – being out of shape. The report shows Alabama ranks No. 5 for being the most out of shape state in the nation.

America has long been among the fattest countries, and it got worse with nearly 50% of Americans putting on weight since the pandemic.

So, if your bathing suits feels a little tight this summer you are not alone. Thankfully, beach season serves as a motivating factor to get back in shape. But some states are closer to getting a six-pack of abs — and the health benefits that come with it — than others.

RunReviews.com released a study on the States in the Best and Worst Shape using the most recent data from the CDC on obesity, diabetes, heart disease, medical checkups, and number of gyms in all 50 states and D.C.

Here is how Alabama compares to the national average in each of the six categories.

• Number of gyms: 9.1 per 100,000 residents, (national average: 12.3)
• Exercised in Last Month: 71.2% (national: 76.9%)
• Obesity Rate: 39% (national: 32.1)
• Diabetes Rate: 14.8% (national: 10.8%)
• Heart Disease Rate: 5.3% (national: 4.3%)
• Annual Medical Checkup: 76.5% (national: 74.9%)

 The five places in the best shape are Washington, D.C.; Massachusetts; Colorado; Connecticut; and New Hampshire.

The five states in the worst shape are West Virginia, Arkansas, Mississippi, Kentucky, and Alabama.

Since 2008, Run Reviews has been providing treadmill reviews, industry news, expert/user opinions and workout suggestions for runners of all types and fitness levels.