From 'Naptown' To Fit, Indy Gets Credit For Healthy Effort

INDIANAPOLIS -- Indianapolis has been on some unflattering lists with regard to fitness, but the tide appears to be turning.

The city is now getting some good press for its efforts to create healthy activities all over the city, 6News fitness contributor Erin Light reported.

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Erin's Fitness Tips: Good Morning Indiana Blog

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American Fitness magazine contributing editor Deborah Howe said the city's healthy attractions, such as Traders Point Creamery, the Cultural Trail and local spas, are changing the perception of Indianapolis.

"I love the way it's growing so much, and with such a healthy aspect, it's so exciting," Howe said.

The magazine will feature Indianapolis to promote fitness activities and places to eat for people who travel to Indianapolis or live in the area.

"I want to encourage people to explore your own area," Howe said. There is so much where we live that we don't even see because we are always reaching out."

As an Indianapolis native, Howe said she was thrilled to see all of the activities downtown and said things have changed since she lived in central Indiana.

"I guess I have earned a new respect for the people of Indianapolis. I know that you've made some unflattering lists as far as fitness," Howe said. "Going downtown and seeing active, healthy people -- it's just totally changed my vision. When I grew up here … it was called Naptown, and now I figure the only reason you would call it Naptown is if you were just so exhausted from doing everything this city had to offer."

Howe's article will be published in the May 2009 edition of American Fitness.