Good for the body
From the Heart Healthy Trails — entry-level trails, predominantly on paved or flat surfaces with little elevation change — for beginners to more challenging 30-mile Twin Valley Trail hikes, there are opportunities for all fitness levels to meet their goals.
“The Winter Hiking Series is great for beginners wanting to get out over the winter months but not wanting to go out alone,” said Jordan Hart, MetroParks outdoor recreation coordinator. “Hiking with a group we can provide pointers on staying warm, regulating heat on the trail and provide hiking tips. We also will bring traction devices you can choice to wear based on the conditions of the trail and trekking poles for added balance and fitness.”
Fresh air and a much-needed dose of Vitamin D can do wonders to boost your energy level as well as burn some calories. If hiking isn’t your preference, the MetroParks Ice Rink’s 14 for Fitness Challenge or Birding Challenge are fun options.
“Being able to go out and complete these activities at your own convenience and pace can be less intimidating and stressful than a regimented routine or the pressure of group activities,” Hart said. “Plus, they don’t include the cost of going to a gym.”
The MetroParks also offer a variety of programs year-round to inspire new and experienced outdoor enthusiasts alike. Discover Paddlesports, Try Backpacking and Bike Touring programs can be the first step in igniting a lifelong passion. The Adventure Speaker Series and Dayton Backpacker Campfire Series provide opportunities to learn from local outdoor enthusiasts before embarking on their own adventure.
Good for the mind
“Being outdoors can help our mental health in several ways especially if one is in a natural environment with a sensory richness to it,” said Doug Horvath, MetroParks education coordinator and naturalist. “In these places, we use our eyes, nose, ears and even touch to bring us into the present moment. Being present or mindful is a way to give space to ourselves and helps us put worries aside.”
Time spent in nature can reduce depression, stress and anxiety.
“These benefits can improve your physical health, such as reduced blood pressure, better sleep and lower cortisol levels,” Hart said. “Exercising outdoors can improve focus and boost your mood, giving you more energy.”
The MetroParks offer four Mindfulness Walks, through the mobile app, at Eastwood, Huffman, Possum Creek and Sunrise MetroParks.
“Another program that helps us be mentally present is our Paint-a-Park series, which invites participants to try drawing what they see,” Horvath said. “Writing and drawing can help us focus beyond ourselves which helps put the world in perspective.”
METROPARKS WELLNESS PROGRAMS
Improving your physical health
- Heart Healthy Trails: Easy to moderate 1-2.5-mile trails marked at every quarter mile to help walkers track their pace.
- MetroParks Trails Challenge: A fun way to explore the region’s trails — hiking, walking, cycling, paddling, mountain biking and horseback riding — on your own time and at your own pace.
- Winter Hiking Series: Outdoor recreation team members guide these cold-weather hikes, giving participants the opportunity to learn more about the trails and ask about hiking tips.
- MetroParks Ice Rink 14 for Fitness Challenge: Fill up your free punch card with each visit to the rink by Feb. 28 for a chance to win prizes.
- Hike the Twin Valley Trail: Hike the nearly 30-mile Twin Valley Trail that connects Germantown to Twin Creek MetroPark.
Improving your mental health
- Mindfulness Walks: Self-guided Mindfulness Walks are an easy way to improve your mental health outdoors.
- Wellness Fridays Market Series: From yoga to book clubs, the Market hosts a variety of programs with a focus on wellness and self-care.
- Paint-A-Park: Providing an opportunity to express creativity in natural spaces, the program is held monthly in a variety of parks. Supplies are provided.
Get inspired
- Adventure Speaker Series
- Dayton Backpacker Campfire Series
- Discover a variety of programs from gardening to backpacking and paddlesports to fishing.
For more information about any of these programs, visit www.metroparks.org.
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