Get Out & Enjoy the Outdoors! free outdoor amenities

By Todd Brown

Want to go do something fun, be active, and it won't cost you anything?

Yes, FREE! The City of Fredericksburg's Parks, Recreation and Events has the outdoor parks, open space, recreational facilities and amenities to provide you with multiple opportunities to be active at your own pace. Spring is right around the corner, so it is time to get outdoors and take advantage of the many city amenities that you can use for free to promote good health and wellness in your life. Whether you are an avid athlete, weekend warrior or someone looking for that fun activity, there are so many places just outside your doors.

Of course the outdoor activities come loaded with benefits to your mental and physical well-being. Let's start with the fact that cities, town and counties with greater recreation opportunities also have higher rates of physical activity, lower health care expenditures and lower obesity rates. Plus, there is an increase in the much needed Vitamin D production from at the same time. Individuals who work out with others have more accountability to stay with an exercise program, and feel supported in reaching their goals. For example, our trails have markers that can help you reach your distance goals We also have brand new fitness equipment along the Heritage Trail, designed to expand your routine workout. Even the dogs can get their exercise in at the Cossey Dog Park, while you relax watching your best four-legged friend having fun. Let's admit it, being outdoors is enjoyable, interesting, fun, engaging, creative, challenging, and FREE! a ball, fly a kite, or try a new sport like Pickleball, it is all here exposure to sunlight. Vitamin D has been linked to boosting your immune system, bone production, and improving your mood.

Try these exercises out: squat jumps, v-ups, sit-ups, bear crawl, glute bridge, step-up (if walking the trail folks could use one of the benches), tricep-dips (again, use the benches). If you wanted to add variety you could include: forward lunge, walking lunges and reverse lunge. If not ready for that, enjoy a nice stroll on the trails.

This tables shows where each activity can be found and enjoyed at a park or trail.

What are you waiting for? It's time to get out and enjoy the great outdoors!

Parks, trails and open spaces are also places for wonderful social interaction. Plan to meet a family member or friend to catch up and get a workout in

These are only a few of the many benefits the great outdoors gives all of us. The City of Fredericksburg has so many choices that cater to it citizens' diverse interests and needs. Whether you are looking to shoot hoops, jump on the river in your canoe, kayak or tube, throw or kick

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