By Lizzy Parker, HSC communications intern
Lizzy Parker is a junior at Colorado College and a Certified Personal Trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine. As an intern at HSC, she enjoys sharing her enthusiasm for and knowledge about physical activity—and, that it can be fun!
Knowing the importance of physical activity sometimes isn’t enough to get us moving. Sometimes we need to feel as if we have a responsibility to stay active. Community engagement is a great way to get in some physical activity with the family while also being a good role model to your kids.
Here are a few of my favorite ways to get active in the community:
- Adopt-a-beach: research local opportunities to volunteer maintaining your local beaches. If you are in the Great Lakes area, you can find more information here.
- Adopt-a-park: like the beach, neighborhood parks need community volunteers to keep them in good condition. A quick search should help you find opportunities in your area. Chicago folk: get involved here.
- Trail maintenance: trails across the U.S. from national parks to forest preserves are often kept up by volunteers. Depending on the site, you could get a serious workout. Find trails in your area that could use some help.
- Community gardening: if you don’t have a yard—or do but don’t have enough sun—a community garden is a wonderful way to put your green thumb to use. Plus, growing fruits and veggies with your kids might make them more open to trying new foods. Check out the community garden database to find local plots.
Bonus: By now, I am sure you are familiar with Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move! Campaign. But, you might not know that the campaign has partnered with museums and gardens across the country to provide free fitness-oriented activities for kids and parents. Check to see what’s happening in your area!
Have a fun and active weekend!
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