Sports, Fitness
and Parks Tips
Walking is the number one participation
sport worldwide. It's easy to do and requires no special skills,
equipment or clothing. All you need is a good pair of walking shoes.
Except for some physically challenged individuals, everyone can enjoy
the many benefits of a regular walking program, including enhanced
stamina, reduced tension, improved muscle tone, weight control and
lowered blood pressure. Try it. You might like it.
Use common sense when dressing for outdoor activities in cold weather,
even here in the South. When the weather is really cold, cover your head
and all extremities — mittens, hat, insulated jacket, thermal underwear
and an extra pair of socks are recommended. Layering your clothes allows
you to remove excess clothing if you get too warm.
Include a basic First Aid Kit in your car, boat, bike bag and fishing
gear. Besides adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment
and gauze pads, be sure to carry aspirin, small scissors, tweezers,
cloth for a sling, plastic sandwich baggies and an elastic bandage. If
you have room, take along some of those great instant ice packs, too.
When you're paddling the
marshes, fishing on the shore, strolling the beaches or wandering the
woods with your dog in tow, be vigilant for biting parasites found in
these parts, including mosquitoes, ticks and fleas. All are carriers of
irritation and disease. Use appropriate repellents for both you and your
pet, and inspect yourself and your pet carefully when you return from your
outing.
Although they may make you look terrific, spray-on, brush-on and wipe-on
tanning products don't protect you from the sun's burning rays — you
have to use sunscreen as well.
Be
a good spectator. Have respect for participants, fans, coaches and those
whose job it is to referee or judge activities you enjoy watching. Don't
spoil an event for yourself or others by being obnoxious, violent,
overly boisterous, rude or destructive.
