Madrid to Host Annual Active Running Cities Meeting: A Step Toward Healthier Urban Living
On January 23, Madrid will become the epicenter of urban innovation as it hosts the annual meeting of active Running Cities at the Spanish Olympic Committee. This event, spearheaded by the Royal Spanish Athletics Federation (RFEA), aims to spotlight urban initiatives that promote physical activity and citizen well-being, solidifying Spain’s reputation as a leader in managing active cities [1].
Active Running Cities, a collaborative initiative between the RFEA and TECH friendly, was designed to foster a more active and healthy lifestyle. By encouraging walking and running in both urban and rural environments, the program transforms cities into vibrant, activity-driven spaces.“It’s about making cities and territories friendlier, turning them into hubs of energy and well-being,” says Marcos Moreno, manager of Active City and Sports at TECH friendly.The event will kick off with a keynote presentation by Raul Chapado, president of the RFEA and vice president of World Athletics, titled “Active Cities, Cities That Inspire.” chapado’s address will set the stage for Moreno’s presentation on the Active Running Cities initiative, which connects municipalities with a shared goal: enhancing residents’ quality of life through sports.
A highlight of the day will be the Active Running Cities 2024 recognitions, honoring cities that successfully passed last year’s evaluation process. This year’s honorees include Almería, Castelló, Mataró, and Santa Coloma de Gramenet. Additionally, two new municipalities—Viladecans and Cabildo de Tenerife—will join the initiative, further expanding its reach.
Following the recognitions, a roundtable discussion titled “Cities That Offer Well-Being” will take place. Featuring Runnea, the media partner of active Running Cities, and a panel of cities committed to active living, the discussion will explore strategies for fostering healthier urban environments.
The event will conclude with closing remarks from Alejandro Blanco,president of the Spanish Olympic Committee,followed by a networking cocktail for attendees.Active Running Cities is more than a local initiative; it’s a global movement with a local impact.By joining this network, cities not only improve their residents’ health but also contribute to broader goals of sustainable development and social cohesion.
For those attending, the Spanish Olympic Committee’s headquarters is conveniently located just a 15-minute walk from IFEMA, which will together host the latest edition of FITUR.
| Event Highlights | Details |
|——————————————|—————————————————————————–|
| Date | january 23, 2025 |
| Location | Spanish Olympic Committee, Madrid |
| Keynote Speaker | Raul Chapado, RFEA President |
| Recognized Cities | Almería, Castelló, Mataró, Santa Coloma de Gramenet |
| New Members | Viladecans, Cabildo de Tenerife |
| Roundtable Topic | “Cities That Offer Well-Being” |
| closing Remarks | Alejandro Blanco, Spanish Olympic Committee President |
| Registration link | Register Here |
Don’t miss this prospect to be part of a movement reshaping urban landscapes for a healthier future. Register now and join the conversation on creating active cities that inspire.
Madrid to Host Annual Active Running Cities Meeting: A Step Toward Healthier Urban Living
Table of Contents
On January 23, Madrid will become the epicenter of urban innovation as it hosts the annual meeting of Active Running Cities at the Spanish Olympic Committee. This event, spearheaded by the Royal Spanish Athletics Federation (RFEA), aims to spotlight urban initiatives that promote physical activity and citizen well-being, solidifying Spain’s reputation as a leader in managing active cities. We sat down with Dr. Elena Martínez, an urban planning expert and advocate for sustainable city development, to discuss the significance of this event and its global impact.
The Vision Behind Active Running Cities
Senior Editor: Dr.Martínez, can you tell us about the vision behind the Active Running Cities initiative and why it’s so important for urban development?
Dr. Martínez: Absolutely. The Active running Cities initiative is a collaborative effort between the RFEA and TECH friendly to transform urban spaces into hubs of energy and well-being. The goal is to encourage walking and running as part of daily life, which not only improves physical health but also fosters social cohesion and sustainable development. by making cities more pedestrian-friendly, we’re creating environments that inspire peopel to led healthier, more active lifestyles.
The Role of Madrid in Leading the Movement
Senior Editor: Madrid is hosting this year’s meeting. What makes it an ideal location for such an event?
Dr. Martínez: Madrid is a perfect example of a city that has embraced the principles of active cities. With its extensive network of parks, pedestrian zones, and running trails, Madrid has become a model for other cities aiming to promote physical activity. Hosting the event at the Spanish Olympic Committee headquarters, which is just a 15-minute walk from IFEMA, underscores the city’s commitment to accessibility and sustainability. It’s a symbolic location that highlights the connection between sports, urban planning, and community well-being.
Recognizing Cities That Inspire
Senior Editor: The event will recognize cities like Almería, Castelló, Mataró, and Santa Coloma de Gramenet. What criteria are used to evaluate these cities?
Dr.Martínez: The evaluation process is comprehensive and focuses on several key areas: infrastructure for walking and running, community engagement, accessibility, and the integration of physical activity into urban planning. Cities that excel in these areas are recognized for their efforts to create environments that support active lifestyles.This year’s honorees have demonstrated extraordinary commitment to these principles, and their success stories will serve as inspiration for other cities joining the network.
The Global Impact of Active Cities
Senior Editor: How does the Active Running Cities initiative contribute to broader global goals, such as sustainable development and social cohesion?
Dr. Martínez: The initiative aligns perfectly with the United Nations’ Sustainable development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to health, sustainable cities, and community well-being. By promoting physical activity, we’re not only improving individual health but also reducing carbon emissions and fostering stronger, more connected communities.It’s a holistic approach that addresses multiple challenges simultaneously, making it a powerful tool for global change.
looking Ahead: The Future of Active Cities
Senior editor: What’s next for the Active Running Cities initiative, and how can more cities get involved?
Dr. Martínez: The future is incredibly exciting. We’re seeing more cities express interest in joining the network, and the upcoming meeting in Madrid will provide a platform for sharing best practices and innovative ideas. For cities looking to get involved, the first step is to visit the Active Running Cities website and explore the resources available.Collaboration is key, and by working together, we can create a global movement that transforms urban landscapes for the better.
Don’t miss the chance to be part of this transformative movement. Register now for the Active Running Cities meeting and join the conversation on creating healthier, more vibrant urban spaces.
