Want to find out which city is best for running? Here’s the world top 10 cities

Running and outdoor exercise have become extremely popular over the last few years, with global Google searches for ‘running’ increasing 22 per cent year-on-year.

With more people taking to the streets for their daily exercise, French performance footwear brand HOKA has published research into the external factors that may be impacting the runners’ physical health.

The brand reviewed seven key factors that can impact outdoor running and exercise such as air pollution, traffic CO2 emission data, the number of green spaces, walkability, average temperature, humidity levels and water quality, in order to find the top cities in the world to enjoy an active life.

Overall, Europe is the best continent for runners, according to the research, with eight of the top 10 cities situated on the continent, while Australia holds two places.

From air quality to road conditions, here are the world’s top 10 best cities to get fit and active running outdoors.

10. Copenhagen, Denmark - Just making it into the top ten is Copenhagen. Copenhagen is the city with the lowest amount of traffic CO2 emissions in the index - only 1,610 gr per return trip - and with the best Air IQ score of 0/100. Its low average temperature of 10C and its 79 per cent humidity level makes it a very good option for runners as long as they are prepared for cold and wet weather. 

9. Barcelona, Spain - This well-known Spanish city sits in the ninth position. Although green space is limited, this city is perfect for an urban run due to its 100/100 score for walkability and its low traffic CO2 emission (3,304 gr per return trip).

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