Every year, March 30 is designated as “Take a Walk in the Park Day,” Teresa Henson, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Extension specialist – nutrition outreach coordinator, said.
“Spring weather offers a great opportunity to enjoy beautiful outdoor scenery at community parks,” according to a news release. “Despite the new coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, people can still enjoy exercise in the fresh air while practicing social distancing and avoiding congregating in groups.”
Henson said individuals can continue to exercise outdoors while taking precautions to stay safe and avoid infection. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the key to slowing the spread of COVID-19 is to limit contact as much as possible. It is easier to keep and maintain space between others in outdoor settings such as parks.
“Taking a walk in the park can be a calming way to relieve stress people may be feeling,” she said. “In addition to being therapeutic, walking in the park is a great way to promote physical activity.”
Henson said the 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of exercise per week. Arkansans can kick-off their physical activity for the week with a walk in the park.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
“Walking is a healthy practice because it keeps our bodies moving and active,” she said. “Incorporating walking as a part of a daily exercise routine can reduce osteoporosis, obesity, heart disease and depression. In addition to the physical health benefits, walking can benefit our outlook and mindset. After a busy workday, walking helps us de-stress and think more clearly.”
To observe Take a Walk in the Park Day, Arkansans should make sure to fit walks into their busy schedules. Lunch breaks, afternoon breaks and after-work hours are good times for a walk.
Individuals can recruit a friend or family member to accompany them on their walks, Henson said. During the current COVID-19 outbreak, she reminds people to practice social distancing and stay at least six feet away from the person they are walking with.
“Walking is a good way to enjoy the outdoors, maintain health and spend time with loved ones,” she said. “So put on your walking shoes, leave your phone behind and enjoy time spent at your local park with no distractions.”
The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff offers all its Extension and Research programs and services without discrimination.