People have different views as to whether it is more achievable to lead a healthy lifestyle in the countryside or if cities offer a health-friendly environment for individuals. In my opinion, although there are some clear benefits to residing in urban areas, rural places are easier to have a healthy lifestyle.
On the one hand, health and fitness facilities are more accessible in urban settings. This is because major hospitals, private clinics, and well-equipped sanatoriums are usually constructed in cities due to a higher concentration of population. (why?) Unlike rural residents, who have to travel a long distance to receive medical services, urban populations enjoy instant treatment from closely located medical institutions. For example, people in Tashkent, the capital city of Uzbekistan, have modern hospitals and other clinics within walking distance, which creates convenience for patients and the disabled. In addition, sports centers and gyms are also available in cities in higher numbers compared to rural areas. This enables people living in cities to take up sports and stay active, further improving their health. Therefore, urban centers provide their residents with opportunities to be healthy and lead an active way of life.
On the other hand, the countryside is also appealing to health-conscious individuals to settle in. The main attraction of villages is that the air in these locations is far cleaner than in megapolises and cities. In contrast to earlier decades, modern urban places, like Beijing and Tashkent, are polluted so much so that it is advised to wear masks to avoid respiratory illnesses, ranging from bronchitis to lung cancer. Most rural areas, however, have managed to preserve their clean air, an attribute that draws millions of individuals to the outskirts of towns and cities in my home country of Uzbekistan, for example. Furthermore, village life requires a more active lifestyle, as individuals often walk long distances to run various errands, including shopping and using public services, and are involved in agriculture. Completing these tasks alone can considerably enhance the health of rural populations.
As for my stance, rural places are generally more conducive to healthy living compared to urban areas. In addition to fresh air and plenty of physical activities, life in a village is less stressful thanks to a slow pace of life. Far from urban noise and endless competitions, individuals in these places are calmer and seemingly happier, possibly because of being close to nature.
In conclusion, although city life has medical and sports facilities for a healthy lifestyle, I maintain that it is much more suitable to reside in villages for well-being. This is because the atmosphere there is clean, there are many activities to do, and life is less stressful in these places.