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By Charity Maclay Did Punxsutawney Phil convince you to put off spring training this year? Stop hibernating and start moving. It is a great time to prepare for the first irresistible day to get outdoors and enjoy the sunshine. So brush off those hiking shoes, restring the tennis racket, tune up the bike, and polish up the golf clubs.
Trail Walking/Hiking: An Oregon Trail pioneer recorded in her diary that she wore out ten pairs of new shoes before reaching her final destination. That same thrill of adventure remains today, even with the benefit of having more sophisticated hiking boots and trail shoes available to us. The results of a study in the November 14, 2005 "Archives of Internal Medicine" reveal that walking 30 minutes a day can add years to your life. Trail walking allows an escape from the daily grind, is a perfect activity for all fitness levels, is free and accessible anywhere in the Country. Start by checking out this great resource at the National Park Service website. Here you can find detailed trail maps, information about terrain, wildlife notes, and more. Walking has been proven to burn body fat, reduce stress, increase metabolism, control appetite, and increase energy. Be sure to always wear proper shoes and clothing, pack enough food and water, always carry a trail map, follow all postings, and above all enjoy the fresh air! Tennis: The Royal Tennis Court at the Hampton Court Palace in England was built by Henry VIII in 1530 and is the oldest tennis court still in use. Tennis is no longer merely a sport of kings. Public tennis courts, available on a first-come first-served basis, are located in many parks and recreation areas all across the country. Lessons are helpful to master the basics or to help you achieve your goal of playing competitively. Rackets can be purchased at garage sales, sporting goods stores for as low as $15, or can be rented at your local military base. Practice makes perfect, so get out there and swing like a king or queen. Bicycling:
About 3.2 million Americans bicycle to work at least once a week, according to the League of American Bicyclists. Lance Armstrong has almost single-handedly made cycling one of the most popular and exciting sports in the 21st Century. The draw of bike riding is as casual or demanding as you choose. It can be a solo event, or can be shared with the whole Family and friends. Either way it is a great calorie burner. If you need equipment, check with local cycling shops for rental prices or with your local military base. Don't forget that helmets are mandatory safety gear. Plenty of water and sunscreen get your pedalling off to a great start! Golf: Did you know that Tiger Woods learned to play on a Navy Golf Course in California? Golf, typically considered an expensive sport, is actually more affordable than you might think. There are military-sponsored courses all over the world where rental equipment is usually available. The price of a round of golf for military personnel might be had at a bargain price. Be sure to ask about twilight specials and other discounts. Golf is a leisurely sport with hidden health benefits. Walk instead of ride, carry your own clubs, and enjoy the camaraderie to get off to a good start. Not only is a round of golf great exercise, it also is a spirit lifter for all ages. Don't hesitate to explore the golf option. You may just get hooked for life on this heart healthy sport. Spring into action and start getting in shape!
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| Sponsored by the Army National Guard, and the Office of the Chief, Army Reserve. Copyright 2009 |
