People living in unsafe neighborhoods are 150% more likely to be overweight.

People, regardless of income level, are more likely to exercise when it’s comfortable and convenient. If you live in an unsafe neighborhood, exercise is neither. In an unsafe neighborhood you are much less likely to go outside and get some exercise. It makes a lot more sense to stay safe indoors.

Even if you did go outside, a poor neighborhood is much less likely to have public facilities like parks and recreation centers. And even if you did have these facilities, would you use them if you didn’t feel safe?

Why not join a health club? Because it’s too expensive. You probably live in a dangerous neighborhood to begin with because money is tight. That doesn’t leave much money for gym fees.

Why not buy a treadmill? Because it’s too expensive and space in your apartment is tight, so there’s not enough room.

The bottom line is, a fear of crime makes people less likely to leave their homes and if you don’t leave your home you aren’t going to get the exercise you need.