Kim Griffin
Contributor
Getting active is an essential part of staying healthy, but if the thought of “exercise” makes you cringe, then think of it in a different way. When you are physically active, you are simply moving your body, and the best part is that you get to choose how you want to MOVE your body! If you are tired of the “same ole same ole” activities, then check out the suggestions below. These tips will help you get active and stay healthy in the new year.
1. Go for a hike. Hiking not only helps you stay active, but it can also improve your mood! Check out floridahikes.com/Florida-Trail-Suwannee for more information on the Florida trails in Suwannee County.
2. Play frisbee at the park. This is a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors and get your heart pumping!
3. Play disc golf (also called frisbee golf). If you like playing frisbee, then kick it up a notch and try disc golf. Simply put, disc golf is a game in which players try to throw a frisbee disc into a standing basket. This activity is perfect for people of all ages and fitness levels. No skills are required to play.
4. Try pickleball. Pickleball is a fun indoor/outdoor paddle sport that combines aspects of tennis, badminton and ping-pong using a paddle and plastic ball with holes.
5. Go for a bike ride. Cycling is not just good for your legs and your lungs; it also improves your strength and flexibility while helping with coordination and balance.
6. Check out online physical activity videos. There are many to choose from, so pick the ones that match your interests. You can find videos on everything from yoga and aerobics, to stretching and muscle strengthening. Even better, you can do this in the comfort of your own home. No gym required.
7. Play catch. This is a great way to get active. It requires a little eye/hand coordination and just enough movement to keep you engaged.
8. Sign-up and participate in a 5K walk/run. This is a terrific way to get moving in the company of others.
9. Get an accountability partner. This person can provide support and help you stay committed to your physical activity goals.
10. Participate in the Walk Off the Holidays event sponsored by the Florida Department of Health-Suwannee County and UF/IFAS Extension-Suwannee County. This annual event encourages residents to walk off those holiday pounds by getting active and staying active all year! The event will be held at the First Federal Sportsplex on Tuesday, Jan. 17 and Tuesday, Jan. 24, from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. The walking event on Tuesday, Jan. 24 will feature a scavenger hunt with prizes.
UF/IFAS Extension is an Equal Opportunity Institute.