Living in Huntsville means navigating a city with a booming economy and a vibrant, growing population. However, like many cities in Alabama, Huntsville faces significant health disparities. Chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease are major concerns, and health gaps across racial groups are some of the widest in the nation. This makes prioritizing health, access to care, and self-advocacy more important than ever.
Our NOWINCLUDED community members, Maci and Kiera, 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 chronic conditions and improving mental well-being.
- Phase 3 Fitness:
Phase 3 offers a quality, elegant fitness environment in two convenient locations. With upscale amenities like childcare, a pool, and group classes, Phaze 3 not only makes fitness accessible but also desirable.
- Website: https://phaze3fitness.com/huntsville-jones-valley/
- Where: Two locations: 1319 Four Mile Post Rd, Huntsville, AL 35802 (Jones Valley) and 145 Plaza Blvd, Madison, AL 35758.
Price range: $-$$- Memberships start at around $24.99 per month, with an annual contract.
Price range: $-$$
- Maci’s recommendations:
- Their upscale amenities, including the pool and group classes, are great for a well-rounded fitness routine.
Maci’s recommendations:Eat Well, Live Better
Healthy eating is a cornerstone for preventing and managing chronic heart conditions.
- The Veggie:
This Black-owned restaurant was founded by Chef Adyre Mason to bring a vegan touch to childhood favorites. The food is delicious and offers a healthy alternative to traditional comfort food. As shares, “The food is delicious, and I love trying different dishes and combinations every time I go”!
- Website: https://www.eattheveggie.com/
- Where: 2010 Vernon Ave SW, Huntsville, AL 35805
- Price range: $$-$$$
- Most main dishes are around $15.
- Kiera’s recommendations:
- Classic Chee Burger
- Chikn Basket
- Chop N’ Fresh:
This local restaurant was founded with healthy food options in mind, providing access to locally sourced, healthy, quick-service food in the heart of Mid City Huntsville. Maci loves that “they offer quick yet delicious salad options with hot and cold topics to sate your appetite.”
- Website: https://www.chopnfresh.com/
- Where: 931 Bob Wallace Ave SW, Huntsville, AL 35801 (MidCity) and 6125 University Dr NW, Huntsville, AL 35806.
- Price range: $$-$$$
- Salads and bowls typically range from $15-$20.
- Maci’s recommendations:
- Sweet Bowl Alabama, which features local ingredients
- Mexican Elote Bowl
- Vujee Vegan:
Founder Nikia M. Lightfoot saw a need for more vegan and plant-based options, leading her to create this restaurant that offers an alternative to animal products without losing out on delicious flavor. Maci says, “I love that this restaurant is located in an area that is within walking distance of my alma mater, Alabama A&M University. It’s so encouraging to see a restaurant coming to the area and meeting the needs for healthy quick service options”.
- Website: https://www.vujeeveganllc.com/
- Where: 4701 Meridian St N, Huntsville, AL 35811
- Price range: $$-$$$
- Combos typically range from $15 to $20.
- Recommendations:
- V-Mac Burger Combo
- Fried Chick’n Sandwich Combo
Ready to explore these Huntsville gems and take control of your health? Connect with Maci and Kiera and more local health guides in the NOWINCLUDED app!
