Living in the City of Atlanta means navigating its vibrant culture alongside significant health disparities. Life expectancy can vary by as much as 25 years between neighborhoods, and Black residents in Georgia face higher rates of chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease. This makes prioritizing health and self-advocacy more important than ever.
Our NOWINCLUDED community members, Kiera, Yemaya, and Raquel have scouted out some of the best local spots to help you stay active and eat well, directly supporting your health journey.
Move Your Body
Physical activity is crucial for managing conditions like heart disease and diabetes.
- E.F.F.E.C.T. Fitness:
For high-energy, community-based workouts, E.F.F.E.C.T. Fitness is the place to be. As Kiera shares, “It’s known for its supportive community, motivating trainers, and high-energy atmosphere.” They also engage in community initiatives, such as their annual Metropolitan 5K and programs aimed at promoting youth health and wellness.
- Website: https://www.effect.fitness/
- Where: 1995 Metropolitan Parkway SW, Atlanta, GA 30315
Price range: $$-$$$- Bootcamp day passes start at $25, and unlimited monthly bootcamp is $125
Price range: $$-$$$
- Kiera’s recommendations:
- Bootcamp class for a high-intensity workout
- Spin class
Kiera’s recommendations:- The Studio Pilates:
This studio offers a welcoming space for everyone, focusing on mindful movement that nourishes both the body and mind. The Studio Pilates is a place where you can get an intense workout that also improves your mental well-being, making it a “happy place” for many.
- Website: https://thestudiopilates.com/
- Where: 763 Trabert Ave NW Unit D, Atlanta, GA
- Price range: $$-$$$
- Single classes start at $35
- Yemaya’s recommendations:
- Take advantage of specials like the “$99 New Client 2 Week UNLIMITED” to try different classes.
Eat Well, Live Better
Healthy eating is a cornerstone for preventing and managing chronic heart conditions.
- Gocha’s Breakfast Bar:
Get ready for a taste sensation! This upscale breakfast and brunch spot is known for its modern, friendly atmosphere and a unique menu featuring Southern-style pescatarian and vegan-friendly dishes. Kiera recommends it because “it has a delicious, creative menu and is a place where people can gather, eat, and socialize with good music and a family-oriented culture that contributes to a positive experience.”
- Website: https://gochasbreakfastbar.com/
- Where: Multiple locations in Atlanta, including 3695 Cascade Rd and 925 Peachtree St NE.
- Price range: $$-$$$
- Kiera’s recommendations:
- The Trio (half portion of their popular shrimp & grits, chicken & waffles, and “Krunchtastic” french toast)
- LaRayia’s Bodega:
More than just a café, this community hub offers delicious, plant-based food and smoothies. The mission is to make healthy eating accessible to all. The focus on local, organic, and healthy ingredients, combined with its welcoming atmosphere, makes it a must-visit spot that truly aligns with a healthy lifestyle. Raquel says, “I love that this place is about so much more than just food. It’s a community hub that makes healthy food an option for everyone.”
- Website: https://order.toasttab.com/online/larayiasbodega
- Where: 675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA
- Price range: $$
- Raquel’s recommendations:
- Nipsey Hussle smoothie with blue algae
- Poetic Peach smoothie
- Local Green Atlanta:
A mission-driven food truck and restaurant, Local Green Atlanta aims to redefine healthy, affordable food. Located on Atlanta’s Westside, it provides a menu focused on nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables, offering many vegetarian and pescatarian choices. You feel good knowing you’re supporting a business that is actively helping its community.
- Website: https://localgreenatlanta.com/
- Where: 19 Joseph E Lowery Blvd NW, Atlanta, GA 30314
- Price range: $$
- Yemaya’s recommendations:
- Basquiat Vegan Pizza
- Jackfruit Burger
Wellness
Prioritizing your mental and physical recovery is just as important as your workout.
- Do Not Disturb:
This restorative wellness and recovery studio makes elevated recovery accessible to the public. Developed by professional athletes, it offers a suite of wellness offerings, including saunas and cold plunges. It’s the ideal place to reset and recharge, making self-care feel like a luxury. Raquel shares, “This is the perfect spot to get a holistic view of your health and prioritize your recovery, which is just as important as the workout itself.”
- Website: https://www.donotdisturbatl.com/
- Where: 675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA
- Price range: $$-$$$
- Raquel’s recommendations:
- The 50-minute private sauna with cold plunge
Community Building
Connecting with your community can improve your overall health and well-being.
- The Village Market ATL:
The Village Market is dedicated to fostering economic growth for Black-owned businesses. Through pop-up markets, events, and a retail space, they connect Black entrepreneurs with a network of consumers and resources, living out their motto “Support is a Verb.” Visiting is an inspiring and powerful way to shop.
- Website: https://thevillagemarket.com/
- Where: 675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Suite 225, Atlanta, GA
- Price range: Varies depending on the vendor.
- Yemaya’s recommendations:
- This is a great place to shop for locally-made health and wellness products.
Ready to explore these Atlanta gems and take control of your health? Connect with Kiera, Yemaya, and Raquel and more local health guides in the NOWINCLUDED app!
