Health problems caused by sedentary lifestyles are now widely recognized as an epidemic, and threaten to bring us the first generation of Americans with shorter life expectancies than our parents. Life span aside, the medical costs of inactive lifestyles are staggering, and the environments we live in are a key factor in the amount of exercise we get. When walking and cycling are part of a daily routine, people are far more likely to stay active. As thousands of visitors to the Midtown Greenway demonstrate every day, well designed linear parks encourage biking and walking. Below are some facts and sources regarding the importance of regular activity to our health:

• The average person loses 13 lbs during their first year of commuting by bike. (Source)
• Just three hours of bicycling per week can cut your risk of heart disease and stroke in half. (Source)
• Research has shown that as neighborhoods feel more walkable, activity is built into day-to-day routines, and the health of residents improves. (Source)