Excercise and Enjoy Your Town's Facilities

An excellent opportunity awaits those who want to exercise only in their own community - the park district. Check into your community and see if there are facilities that you can use. Residents usually pay a reduced rate. But if you happen to live near another town, with exercise equipment that you prefer or a location that is more convenient, than you can still take advantage of the opportunity at a non-resident rate.

The first step is to check in the yellow pages or on line for your town's site. There will be a link to the park district.

If you are fortunate your town will have a fully equipped recreational center.

Boulder, Colorado has exceptional facilities. Once a resident has a membership card they can choose to go to different locations with in Boulder. There are pools with water slides, tennis courts, weight lifting machines and much more.

In Downers Grove, Illinois residents have two High School pools to choose from. The recreational center has indoor track and exercise equipment and other amenities. They offer mini golf in the summer. The neighboring town of Lombard has a Frisbee Golf course. While Lisle, offers a full water park to enjoy. It is worth it to look at all the communities near you.

Most communities have outdoor parks with the possibility of basketball, playgrounds, tennis or walking. Some offer childcare others do not. But, for a family, the park districts are usually low cost. Many activities can be done together, increasing family bonding.

Free for the enjoying, the parks can be a wonderful respite in good weather. One of my favorite things is hiking through the woods. So I enjoy exploring the county or state parks and wildlife preserves. I get my exercise but I often find that there is much more to enjoy.

Tucked in the woods you will discover mini museums or zoos. I am always delighted to see what is hidden of the road. Even the little sign posts that tell about a natural site or offer details on the woodland flora, fauna and wild life can add to the fun.

Once you have located the park district's informational sites or brochures look for classes. There may be free classes or hikes held out in the woods. These are usually lead by someone trained in wildlife preservation. You can learn to spot edible plants. See eagles flying and nesting or discover the types of bird life in your area.

Indoor recreational centers have classes as well. Yoga, swimming, water aerobics and other regular activities may be exactly what you need to keep or establish your routine.

Seniors usually enjoy discounts and additional social events. There may even be a dedicated senior center where friends meet for food and talk.

The parks are our greatest assets and a wonderful bargain. Enjoy them fully and please support them as you are able.