The streets and sidewalks are swept clean, the trees have replenished their canopies, and lush grassy carpets grace our parks once again — it’s almost as though nature is beckoning us to come out and play. Summer is back! And with it returns numerous opportunities to Get Up, Get Out and Get SummerActive.
Engaging in regular physical activity is important. Summer brings warmer temperatures and inviting green spaces to help put that extra spring in your step towards getting your daily doses of active living. Whether your goal is to achieve and maintain a healthy weight; to continue to build strength, flexibility and endurance; or simply to enjoy a distraction from daily stresses, choosing activities you enjoy is the key to success. No need to purchase expensive exercise equipment or gym memberships — there are plenty of free or low-cost options to choose from to enjoy being active.
Your community is your playground!
Here are a few free ideas for getting active this summer:
- Take a walk and check out a trail in your neighborhood. Take the time to unwind, connect with nature and get to know your community. All you need is a good pair of shoes and a sense of adventure. Phone 522-9200 ext. 257 to get a copy of Northern Ontario Trails: Yours to Explore.
- Get back to play and borrow an Active Fun Kit from your local public library. These kits contain fun play equipment such as jump ropes, balls and parachutes. It’s a great way to get kids active at family gatherings, at birthday parties or just for fun, and it’s free.
- Remember hopscotch? Four-corners? Now you can paint your own by borrowing playground stencils from the Sudbury & District Health Unit, at no cost. All you need is paint, a flat area to apply them, and you’ve created endless hours of outdoor fun.
- Enjoy learning historical facts? Take one of five historical walking tours within the City of Greater Sudbury while adding up your daily steps. Visit rainbowroutes.com for route locations and maps.
- Gardening and yardwork are great ways to be active outdoors. Not only will you be reaping the benefits of physical activity, but growing your own food and enjoying the fruits of your labour can be very rewarding activity.
- Flip through the City of Greater Sudbury Leisure Guide for more great events and activities to take part in this summer.
Tell us about your active adventures! Every community group, school and workplace is invited to hold an event that encourages people to get active. Submit your active events to [email protected]. Weekly winners will be chosen for a chance to win a grand prize. Remember to practice sun safety while you Get Up, Get Out and Get SummerActive!
For more tips and tools on getting active, visit www.sdhu.com or phone 522-9200 ext. 257.
Désirée Chartrand is a public health nurse on the Nutrition and Physical Activity Action Team at the Sudbury & District Health Unit. This is the first in a series of five columns.
