health, fitness, and emotional well-being are central concerns for people who live in rio de janeiro - from medical centers to mental welfare clinics, and health food shops to street gyms, there is evidence everywhere of a widespread and concerted engagement with personal and communal health.

health remains a major preoccupation, and the national and state governments have invested impressive amounts in improving the quality and efficiency of health care - they have also proactively implemented a diverse and creative variety of schemes to increase awareness and motivation with regards to health and fitness.

last year the national government released a clear set of dietary guidelines, prescribing home-cooked food and the avoidance of highly processed produce - the state government has mounted advertising campaigns, as well as free outdoor gyms and wide-scale fitness activities across the city.