Staying physically active can help protect your health and lower your risk for certain diseases.
It’s recommended that adults spend 2.5 hours each week doing moderately intense activity (like fast walking) or 1 hour and 15 minutes of intense activity (like jogging or running).
[1] This Memorial Day, take advantage of the extra time to be active with your friends and family.
1. Take a hike
The perfect way to get some quality time with loved ones is out on a trail somewhere. Whether it’s at your local park down the road or at a national park, take a hike this Memorial Day. Leave your phones on silent and enjoy your time outdoors together!
2. Play a game of basketball
Who’s up for a friendly basketball game? Grab your ball, gather some friends, and hit the court! Remember to stay hydrated under that Georgia sun. Not feeling basketball? Try flag football or cornhole.
3. Have a scavenger hunt
Split the family into teams and see who can find a list of items the quickest. Get creative with the list and even more creative with the prize (the losing team has to make dinner??). This friendly competition can be done inside or throughout the neighborhood.
Possible inside list items:
- Three pennies
- A cat toy
- A spice jar
- A calculator
- A cotton ball
Possible outside list items:
- Three different colored leaves
- A pinecone
- A yellow flower
- Four acorns
- A pebble
4. Go swimming
Cool off from the heat by taking a dip in the water. Check out a local pool, go to the beach, or splash in a river!
5. Take a bike ride
An easy bike ride is a great way to get moving while site seeing! Bike trails can wind through scenic parks or along waterways—and the views don’t disappoint. Be sure to be safe and wear a helmet.
6. Bowling
Grab your friends or family and hit the bowling alley. The weighted balls will give your arms a subtle work out while you show off your bowling skills.
7. Enjoy our state parks
Did you know that if you have a library card from a Georgia public library, you can check out a ParkPass and Historic Site Pass, just like you would check out a book? These passes will get you free admission and free parking at Georgia’s State Parks and State Historic Sites. [2] See which of the nearly 50 parks throughout Georgia are nearest to you!
Written by Taylor Newman, Ph.D. Candidate | Edited by Laurel Sanville, MS, RDN, LD
Original photo sources
[1]“How Much Physical Activity Do Adults Need?” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 04 June 2015. Web. 09 Oct. 2016.
[2]http://www.gastateparks.org/ThingsToKnow