A new report maps the geography of British fitness - and tells us that the northern cities are responsible for driving the UK leisure and fitness industries.

But, we know from government statistics that the north has the most serious obesity problems. (Boston in Lincolnshire has the highest obesity rate of any town in the country).

Analysts CDMS examined data on the leisure habits of 80,000 people across the UK's 13 cities. In order to cut out any bias towards the well to do, the study looked at activities available to every pocket, eg hiking, sailing, cycling, camping and keep fit. The results showed a clear north/south fitness divide, with Manchester ranking number one for leisure, health and fitness activity while London came bottom of the table.

Do you want to know how your area is ranked, in health and fitness terms? Then look at your Local Authority Health Profiles, which are designed to show the health of people in local authorities across England. They cover county councils, district councils, unitary councils and London boroughs. The first Profiles were released in 2006; the 2007 Health Profiles came out on 22nd June 2007.

These Health Profiles are used by local authorities and the Health Service to highlight the health issues for their local authority area and to compare them with other areas.

The profiles are designed to show where there are important problems with health or health inequalities. The profiles can be used with other local information, such as the Audit Commission's Area Profiles, to target action to improve the health of local people.

To find out about your area’s Profile, go to: http://www.communityhealthprofiles.info/