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Rocktoberfest Half Marathon and 5K Coming To Naples Next Month

Runner doing a half marathon

The Rocktoberfest Naples Half Marathon & 5k, coming to the picturesque North Collier Regional Park on October 7, 2023. This thrilling race promises to be a highlight on the running calendar, set against the stunning backdrop of Naples, Florida.

The Rocktoberfest Naples Half Marathon & 5k offers a unique blend of challenging races and fantastic post-race festivities, making it a must-attend event for runners of all levels. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just looking for a fun fitness challenge, this event has something for everyone.

Runners will embark on a journey through the scenic beauty of Naples, Florida, with well-marked courses that showcase the natural splendor of the region. Runners will experience the thrill of conquering a challenging half marathon or enjoy a brisk 5k race. Racers will receive and event shirt and after the race, a medal.

The excitement doesn't end at the finish line. After the race, explore all that Naples has to offer. Take a refreshing dip in the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, savor the mouthwatering seafood at local restaurants, or discover unique shopping destinations in the area. Naples has something for everyone to enjoy!

Event Details:
Date: October 7, 2023
Location: North Collier Regional Park, Naples, Florida
Registration: Visit  https://www.rocktoberfesthalf.com/ to register and learn more about the event.

Naples Is The Fittest City In Florida

It's certainly one of the most beautiful cities. However Naples is the fittest city in Florida as well. Nationwide, it ranks 46 out of 572 in this report. The findings are from a study by the online fitness resource Total Shape. The data used to compile the list was taken from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention statistics from 2019 and 2020. In addition, the study focuses on hundreds of cities around the country that are part of metropolitan areas. Things considered were health status, exercising habits and obesity rates among residents aged 18 and over and more.

Southwest Florida cities take up half of the top ten fittest cities in Florida list. Congrats Naples Fittest City in Florida and number 46 in the U.S.

Fittest city in Florida

Naples is not the only city in Southwest Florida to score high on the list. Keep scrolling down to see more.

The fittest place of all metropolitan areas in the country is Newton, Massachusetts. The city measured near-perfect scores in all three categories. As for the worst place in the United States for fitness, it is Reading, Pennsylvania. Almost half the population is obese. In addition, the researchers found two in five residents don't exercise or make any physical effort in their leisure time.

Avon park is the least fit place in the Sunshine State. 43.6% of people living there are obese. In addition, 26.1% rate their own health as "poor" or "fair" and only 36.3% say they are active physically. Avon Park actually ranks #556 out of 572 places in the nation  when it comes to fitness. Naples is the fittest city in Florida and here is how the rest of the top ten list stacks up. You will see that Southwest Florida is looking pretty good. Congrats. Keep moving Southwest Florida.

#1 Naples

According to the study, 89.4% of the adult population describe their state of health as either "excellent", "very good", or "good".

#2 Marco Island

Marco Island is the second fittest place in metropolitan Florida and number 61 in America. 88.7% of those living here would rate their health positively. 79.7% dedicate at least some of their leisure time to exercising, while obesity affects 24% of the population.

#3 The Villages

With 30.2% obese and 82.2% physically active, The Villages residents are the third fittest people in Florida and #68 in America. 89.5% describe their health status as "good", "very good" or "excellent".

#4 Destin

In the Florida Panhandle, Destin is known worldwide for it's beaches with sand that appears to be made of sugar. It is also a pretty fit place to live according to these numbers.

#5 North Port

Nestled between Port Charlotte and Sarasota, Old Florida is still alive and well here. So are the residents as this Southwest Florida city rounds out the top five list. But let's keep going...

#6 Cape Coral

Hey there Cape Coral residents. You are looking pretty fit and scoring high in the wellness category. Keep up the good work.

#7 Punta Gorda

In Charlotte County, this charming town on the Peace River ranks high. Residents here are living their best, fit life.

#8 Ormond Beach

Ormond Beach sometimes gets overlooked. It is a coastal community in Volusia County sharing territory with Daytona Beach. Daytona did not make the top ten.

#9 St Petersburg

St Pete is booming. The city is walkable with a nice waterfront and newly rebuilt pier. Residents here are quite active and according to this list, their fitness level proves it.

#10 Sarasota

Rounding out the top ten is a beautiful city in the northernmost fringe of Southwest Florida, closer to the Tampa Bay area. It's known for its great culture, beautiful beaches, and now, it's top fitness ranking.

Chris has been on ESPN Soutwest Florida in one way or another dating back to 2010. As a Southwest Florida native, Chris understands what's important to the locals. He is a huge football fan; both professional and college. Although he has a special place for the Miami Dolphins and the entire SEC. He is also very into golf, both playing it locally and covering it on a global scale. Sports are supposed to be fun, and Chris likes to reflect that in the way he covers it. Chris writes about sports news and opinions.