Chicago, IL

Chicago, aptly named the Windy City as it sits on the shores Lake Michigan, is home to some of the most fitness- and health-focused individuals in the country. Chicago sets the standard for health and well-being, placing itself year after year on the list of healthiest cities in the United States.

It goes farther than just exercising and eating right. There is a huge focus on mental health and physical well-being. Paid time off and sick days are a huge priority with employers in Chicago. Cities are assessed on nine specific policies, from clean air and food safety at restaurants, to the accessibility of healthy food options. In 2017, Chicago received an overall gold standard. It was just one of five cities nationally to receive that ranking, and the only Midwest city to do so.

Chicago has been voted the best American city for biking in 2016. Whether you want to work out alone or with a group, you have options. Explore parks, walk along the lake, or try out a new health spot. Check out a few great meet-ups here: https://www.meetup.com/cities/us/il/chicago/health-wellness/

And if running is your thing, take the time to prep and qualify for the annual Chicago half marathon and 5K: https://www.chicagohalfmarathon.com/

Chicago is constantly working to improve their standards, from raising the legal age for individuals to purchase tobacco products, to providing healthy options in vending machines. There are also effective bariatric surgery options, like the LAP-BAND® System, an effective weight loss procedure available for individuals who are struggling to lose weight. Surgeons in the area have the same focus on total wellness that the city of Chicago embraces. The LAP-BAND System is a non-anatomy gastric banding procedure that is performed laparoscopically, which allows patients to recover quickly and take advantage of all the fit-focused events Chicago has to offer. Below is a list of bariatric surgeons that offer the LAP-BAND, an effective, safer, and customizable weight loss surgery option.