Staggering Decline in Walking by Americans Raises Concerns for Health
As the saying goes, "put one foot in front of the other" – but it seems as though Americans are finding it harder and harder to follow this basic advice.
According to a shocking new report by StreetLight Data, there has been a staggering 36% decline in the number of walking trips taken by Americans in the past three years.
This decline is not just a matter of convenience or personal preference. Walking has long been known to have numerous health benefits, both physically and mentally.
But why the sudden decline?
The report shows that in every metro and state analyzed, there has been a drop of at least 20% in annual average daily walking trips. Even more concerning, this trend shows no sign of slowing down, with a 6% decline between 2021 and 2022 alone.
Using anonymized data from mobile devices and vehicle tracking systems, StreetLight observed that the average walking trip in the U.S. must now be more than 820 feet to be counted. In comparison, New York City ranks at the top of the list with 390 walking trips per 1,000 people in 2022. A not-so-surprising statistic for those familiar with the city's bustling streets and fast-paced lifestyle.
Meanwhile, cities like Portland, Boise, and Ogden fall to the bottom of the list with only 220 walking trips per 1,000 people.
However, it's not all bad news as some cities, including Los Angeles and San Diego, have seen a 19% and 14% increase in walking trips respectively. But overall, the numbers do not lie – walking has become a rare activity in many parts of the country.
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The report points to factors such as remote work and limited access to restaurants and shops as possible reasons for this decline. But regardless of the cause, it's clear that walking has taken a backseat to other forms of transportation, with driving only 4% lower than pre-pandemic levels.
Nothing maybe more mentally or physically helpful during big holiday dinners with relatives and friends – than a long walk.