Are Hanoian people living healthier lives?

Welcome back to Words on the Street, where we explore the trends shaping everyday life in Vietnam. Today, we're taking a closer look at health and wellness. Vietnam is undergoing a subtle transformation. From bustling parks filled with people exercising at dawn to families opting for healthier meals, signs of a more balanced lifestyle are everywhere. But how deep are these changes? Are they enough to shape a lasting culture of wellness, or are they just the first steps on a long journey?

Vietnam has one of the lowest obesity rates in the world, with only about 2% of adults classified as obese, according to the WHO. While urbanization and dietary changes are slowly increasing the number of overweight people, Vietnam still fares much better than many developed countries, where obesity rates can exceed 30%. This resilience may be rooted in an active culture passed down through generations.

In the parks and on the streets across urban areas, mostly Hanoi, the energy is palpable: elderly people walking briskly, middle-aged women grooving to self-organized aerobic routines, and young people starting their mornings with jogs or calisthenics. Parks are particularly busy in the early hours of the morning, with diverse groups of seniors practicing Tai Chi, groups of friends cycling, and even impromptu yoga sessions led by enthusiasts. This morning bustle reflects a unique urban rhythm, where staying active is not just a habit, but a shared cultural practice in Hanoi.

Football remains a national passion, of course, but new sports such as golf and pickleball are finding a home in Hanoi's dynamic communities. These newer sports highlight an important shift: the growing willingness of Vietnamese people, especially those in the middle and upper classes, to invest in their physical health. Golf, for example, once seen as an exclusive sport for the elite, has become increasingly accessible. Pickleball, while still a niche sport, is gaining traction among younger professionals looking for new ways to stay fit and socialize.

Nowadays, physical exercise is no longer just a hobby but a necessity for personal growth. As disposable incomes rise, more people are willing to spend on gym memberships, professional training, or equipment for their favorite sports. The emergence of boutique gyms offering yoga, pilates, and boxing classes reflects a growing demand for tailored, high-quality experiences. Many people view investing in their health as a long-term commitment to improving their overall standard of living as well as their physical well-being.

Even workplaces and schools often organize mini Olympics games and sports days to raise awareness and encourage people to stay healthy. These initiatives do more than promote fitness; they strengthen community bonds, foster team spirit, and remind people that wellness is as much a shared journey as it is an individual one.

Exercise and nutrition go hand in hand. Vietnamese cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its balance of flavors and ingredients. Many traditional dishes already emphasize fresh vegetables, herbs, and lean proteins, often accompanied by fruit for dessert. However, the reliance on additives and heavy spices has been a cause for concern.

In recent years, a quiet food revolution has reshaped eating habits. Thanks to the Internet and improved logistics, information about healthy eating and access to clean, organic food has become easier than ever. Many families prioritize sourcing safe ingredients, and the rise of homegrown produce is making a comeback. What's more, many supermarkets and e-commerce platforms now cater to health-conscious consumers and offer easy access to high-quality food.

As a result, families are increasingly blending indulgent traditions with healthier alternatives, proving that it's possible to enjoy vibrant flavors while staying on top of nutrition.

Economic growth and lifestyle upgrades

As Vietnam's economy prospers, so does the standard of living of its citizens. A popular phrase in the past was "ăn no mặc ấm" (eat enough, wear warm clothes), reflecting a focus on survival. Today, this has evolved into "ăn sung mặc sướng" (eating luxuriously and dressing well), signaling a shift toward comfort and pleasure.

This shift is evident in how people spend their time and resources. Their ability to think beyond their immediate needs is enabled by economic security, which opens doors for them to prioritize their mental, physical, and overall health. It's a natural progression in societies where economic growth fuels the pursuit of a better quality of life.

While challenges remain, there are promising signs of progress. Air pollution continues to pose significant health risks, especially in Vietnam's urban centers. According to UNICEF, pollution causes more than 70,000 deaths annually and contributes to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. However, efforts are underway to raise awareness and mitigate these effects, with initiatives promoting green spaces and urban health programs gaining traction.

Work and study demands also often leave little time or energy for self-care. “It’s almost impossible to relax or exercise when you’re swamped with deadlines,” shared one online participant, echoing the struggles of many professionals. Yet, despite these hurdles, many organizations are stepping up. A growing number of companies and startups are implementing wellness initiatives, such as in-office yoga sessions, subsidized gym memberships, and team-building sports activities.

Notably, some large corporations are going further by investing in fitness equipment and creating dedicated indoor exercise spaces for their employees. These facilities make it easier for workers to incorporate fitness into their daily routines, regardless of busy schedules. They also symbolize a commitment to employee well-being, reflecting a growing recognition that a healthy workforce is essential for long-term success. Such initiatives are crucial in creating a balance between the demands of modern life and the need for a healthier, more active lifestyle

These challenges illustrate that while Vietnam is moving toward a healthier future, the road is not without hurdles. Despite these obstacles, Vietnam is steadily moving in the right direction. The growing focus on physical activity, healthier diets, and improved lifestyles signals a shift in priorities, driven by both cultural heritage and modern awareness. Challenges such as pollution and work stress remain, but they're not insurmountable.

The question is: How can we individually and collectively create the time and space to live well? Finding balance, combining the old with the new, and moving forward with the goal of a healthier, happier Vietnam might hold the key.