Notes from Town Square: Exercising through play

What better ways to get your exercise than to get out there and play, walk, run, or enjoy a game of basketball, racquetball, football, baseball or soccer?

There are so many opportunities to do these and much more right out your back door.

With an estimated 35 percent of Americans being considered overweight and one in 20 being considered extremely obese, exercise is more important than ever. Why not have fun while getting your exercise?

Green River offers over 12 miles of walking and biking trails and pathways, multiple playgrounds, a skate park, a progressive bike park, splash pad, tennis, volleyball and basketball courts.

There are 20 playgrounds, with ratings for recommended ages ranging from 0-12 years of age.

You could take a leisurely stroll on the .5 mile Barbara Carroll path around the Recreation Center, stop along the way and try out the outdoor exercise equipment. Or, if you prefer a quieter stroll through nature, hit the greenbelt which meanders along the beautiful Green River.

You’ll not only get your exercise in but as a bonus you have a very good chance of seeing some of nature’s wildlife, birds, squirrels, rabbits and more.

Should you opt to create your own fun, there is ample open park space in many of the more than 20 parks in Green River.

If you prefer indoor activities check out the 54,000-foot recreation center, complete with a swimming pool, cardio hall, weight room, racquet and basketball courts as well as the newly designated pickleball court.

What’s Pickleball?

It’s one of the fastest growing sports, bringing a combination of tennis, badminton and ping pong into one game. Individuals use a paddle and whiffle ball on a short court and it looks like a lot of fun.

So let’s get off the couch, step out of the office or simply take a break and enjoy what our city has to offer while improving our health.

 

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