Why find outdoor active recreation?
It’s green – you cut out the lame gyms and material heavy exercise equipment in exchange for time in the great outdoors.
Nature naturally and effectively cuts calories (think hills and sand). Even planting a tree cuts calories. You also learn to appreciate nature and if you take your friends, kids, and family along – bonus because they learn to love nature too!
It’s healthy – um, why not get active? You know it’s good for you. According to American Sports Data, Inc (ASD), currently “63% of Americans are overweight with a Body Mass Index (BMI) in excess of 25.0; 31% are obese with a BMI in excess of 30.0; childhood obesity has more than tripled in the past two decades.“ And according to the U.S. Surgeon General, obesity is responsible for 300,000 deaths every year. People aren’t active enough and it’s creating a very unhealthy planet of people.
Research notes that green exercise actually cuts down on stress.
Where to locate healthy active outdoor activities for kids and adults:
- You can join The I Will Campaign for healthier children, healthier communities and healthier businesses – you pledge to make sure at least two kiddos get outside and active this year
- Getting Youth Active Toolkit for the Trade – a toolkit meant to help the outdoor community grow participation in active outdoor recreation and improve the health of young people in America.
- Locate literally hundreds of outdoor activities for all ages at the Get Americans Healthy Database – note, this database recently changed names to be more kid-centered, but don’t let that stop you, the activities and organizations listed here are all ages.
- Head over to Recreation.gov to find recreation sites in your area that are perfect for outdoor activity.
- Adventure Cycling Association – biking outside for health.
- Women in the Outdoors – get active outside with cool ideas just for the gals.
- Appalachian Mountain Club – tips for getting active through camping, hiking, backpacking, paddling, and more.
[image via The I Will Campaign]