Fun, fitness easy to find around here

Staying active with regular exercise is one of the most important things we can do for ourselves and our children.

Over the past year or so obesity has become a major issue in our society. Statistics show Americans have become overweight, and more importantly ? or should I say, more disturbingly ? our children have put on a few extra pounds.

Now this isn?t going to be a column about obesity, it?s about not using our county?s resources in order to stay in shape.

The problem of obesity has increased with the rise of technology, the availability packaged foods and the ease of catching a meal at a fast food restaurant. There?s nothing wrong with eating a hamburger now and then, but for some of us tend to take advantage of these restaurants more than we should.

But maybe the problem isn?t eating fast food, instead the problem is our lack of exercise. Now, we don?t have to have a scheduled three-hour workout everyday to keep the weight off and live healthier. But what we can do is to use some of McMinnville?s man-made structures and some of Warren County?s natural wonders to help keep the fat off. In the end, it only takes a little walking or bike riding.

There are so many things we can get out and do with our children and get them away from the computer or playstations. First, with have a fine facility at the Civic Center. There are tennis courts, ball fields, a playground and a very nice walking trail. Lots of people use these facilities on a regular bases, but a few more of us could use a couple of laps around the block.

If walking in a circle isn?t your thing, then get the kids and head to Rock Island or Fall Creek Falls for a little hike. Take a picnic lunch and get out and enjoy a day with the family, and get them some much needed exercise in the process. There are miles and miles of trails, and it?s a great way to get your family back in touch with nature.

Yes, I know it?s hard to find a few extra hours in the day. We are always on the go and today?s lifestyle is fast-paced. We work all day then have to run here and there, and by the time we get home we just want to rest and relax.

But if you start by making it a weekend tradition, then soon you?ll be at the Civic Center or down at Riverfront Park walking on the Greenway trail every night. A little walking every night will help you sleep better and wake up feeling refreshed.

It won?t take too long before you start feeling and seeing the rewards of your effort.

It?s a hard thing to start, but once you get going your body is going to thank you, and it will become a natural daily routine.

We all need a little encouragement now and then, just a little jump start to get us motivated. And if our kids don?t see us put forth an effort to take care of our bodies and get a little exercise, then our children might just follow our lead.

Keep them active when they?re young and it will be beneficial for them as adults. Just a walk around the block with your family every night will not only help keep you in shape, but it also gives you some time to spend with your kids.