Did you use the dark winter months as your excuse for not going outside to get some exercise? Well, with the time change coming up, in which we “spring forward,” there is now more time in the evening to go outside and get moving! Pasco County’s latest campaign through the health department is called “Move More,” which encourages Pasco County residents to get out and enjoy the 50-plus parks spread throughout the county. By visiting at least five parks by April 30th, you will be eligible for a prize! You don’t have to do anything strenuous; simply walking your dog, pushing a stroller, or walking a nature trail with your family counts as “moving more” and, of course, many park activities are free. Not sure which parks are in your area? Here is a list of parks with their address and the activities they offer: http://pasco.floridahealth.gov/programs-and-services/wellness-programs/healthiest-weight/_documents/pasco-county-parks-list.pdf. Once you determine which parks you want to enjoy, please register on EventBrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/move-more-at-pasco-parks-tickets-41117331044. There is no cost to sign up.
Physical activity has been linked to a number of improved health outcomes. Just by walking for half an hour a day for five days a week, you can decrease your chances of heart disease, obesity, osteoporosis, Type 2 diabetes, and breast and colon cancers, while improving your blood pressure, mental state, and more (Swartzendruber, 2013). If exercise is new to you, it is always recommended to check with your doctor to make sure you can participate in a new exercise routine, and make sure you have the right footwear to prevent any potential injuries.
The health department’s website, http://pasco.floridahealth.gov/programs-and-services/wellness-programs/healthiest-weight/move-more-content-page.html, has more details. Here, you will also talk about your experience in a survey and say where you would like your prize to be mailed to. Enjoy exploring the many parks the county has to offer, make new friends, and improve your health!
References:
Swartzendruber, K. (2013). Benefits of Walking for Physical Exercise. Retrieved from http://msue.anr.msu.edu/news/benefits_of_walking_for_physical_exercise
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