Benefits of Exercising in the Sunshine
Awareness

Benefits of Exercising in the Sunshine

By December 28, 2020February 3rd, 2021No Comments

Take a minute to think about the last time you spent outdoors, encircled by bustling people and hugged by the sun. Do you recall how you felt? Good, better, energized, social, happier?

Physical activity has been linked to well-being and sunshine has been linked to happiness1. Brain scans show serotonin levels are highest in spring and summer and when engaging in physical activity2. You live in Florida where exercise opportunities are nearly limitless. Here is a list of local walking trails and events to attend:

Lake Hollingsworth: Nearly three miles, one hour and a beautiful view

Lake Parker trails: Wildlife, paved trails, popular place to find hidden “Lakeland rocks.”

Peterson Park: Park at the back; walk the wooden bridge and paved around to make a 30 minute loop.

Lake Mirror: 30 minutes, another popular place to find hidden “Lakeland rocks.”

Circle B Bar Reserve: Distance varies (up to 3.5 miles and 6 miles is possible), loops, wildlife

First Friday in Lakeland: The first Friday of the month walk around Downtown Lakeland 6pm-9pm.

Farmers Curb Market Lakeland: Walk around Downtown Lakeland every Saturday in June and July 8am-1pm. Get moving and grab some fruit and veggies!

Gandy Pool: $4, for lap swim go early (5:30am and open swim begins at 12pm through the week) 10am-5pm on Saturday and 11am-5pm on Sunday

Simpson Pool: $4 open until August 12.

Lakeland Senior Recreation Club: Ages 55+, Thursdays, Magnolia Building, ballroom and line dancing, 10am-12pm, $1

Mall Walkers program, Eagle Ridge 8am, call Lake Wales Medical Center, 863-676-1433 for program details.

Colt Creek State Park: walking, biking, scenic/wildlife

Mulberry Phosphate Museum: dig for sharks teeth, arrowheads. Tuesday-Saturday 9am-5pm

Geocaching: Numerous spots in Polk County

Sanlan Golf Course: Specials through the summer, scenic/wildlife

Check your insurance or employer discounts! Many insurance providers and employers offer free or discounted gym memberships.

Take advantage of the many opportunities for physical activity this summer! Let the sun and nature embrace you.

References:

1 Khazaee-pool, M., Sadeghi, R., Majlessi, F., & Rahimi Foroushani, A. (2015). Effects of physical exercise programme on happiness among older people. Journal of Psychiatric & Mental Health Nursing, 22(1), 47-57. doi:10.1111/jpm.12168

2 Sunshine equals happiness. (2008). Therapy Today, 19(8), 9.

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