This blog post is part of an ongoing series to inform park and recreation professionals about the strategies in the National Physical Activity Plan’s Community Recreation, Fitness and Parks (CRFP) physical activity sector.
One strategy of the National Physical Activity Plan’s Community Recreation, Fitness and Parks (CRFP) is that “Communities should develop new, and enhance existing, community recreation, fitness, and park programs that provide and promote healthy physical activity opportunities for diverse users across the lifespan.” ParkRx is an innovative approach to how we think about health and well-being by encouraging people to reconnect with nature.
Research consistently shows that spending time outdoors can significantly enhance a population’s health. The benefits of spending time outdoors and engaged in nature span from mental health and social connectedness, to increased engagement in healthy behaviors, including physical activity.
- Mental Health: Exposure to nature – like trees and natural foliage, or in green spaces like parks or trail systems – has been shown to reduce feelings of anxiety and stress while improving mood and overall emotional well-being and has also been linked to cognitive recovery and attention restoration. Simply, you will feel better and be prepared to take on the tasks of your daily life.
- Social Connectedness: Parks and shared outdoor spaces provide the opportunity for community interaction, fostering a sense of belonging and support.
- Physical Activity: Engaging in outdoor activities promotes physical activity, which is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle and reducing the risk for many adverse health outcomes (e.g., chronic diseases, depression and anxiety, poor sleep, etc.).
The benefits of physical activity, itself, are profound, spanning from physical health – like improved musculoskeletal and cardiorespiratory fitness; to mental health – like improved mood and positive state affect; and social health – like increased interpersonal connections and a sense of belonging. The current Physical Activity Guidelines recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week – from activities like brisk walking, riding a bike or even rock climbing – to maximize the effect of these health benefits. However, many Americans struggle to meet these recommendations. This is where ParkRx comes in!
What is ParkRx?
ParkRx (i.e., Park Prescription) programs are designed to bridge the gap between healthcare, parks and recreation, and the community to promote engagement in outdoor activity. Here's how it works:
- Prescription for Nature: Healthcare providers prescribe their patients time to spend in local parks and public outdoor spaces, much like they would prescribe medication. This includes specific activities (e.g., going for a brisk walk in a local park), frequencies (e.g., at least three times a week), and durations tailored to individual needs (e.g., for about 45 minutes each time).
- Support from Park Professionals: After receiving a ParkRx, individuals can connect with park staff who offer guidance on how to engage with their natural surroundings effectively (e.g., park maps and locations of playgrounds, trail systems, etc.). Park and recreation professionals are vital to the success of ParkRx programs, helping to create welcoming environments for outdoor activities, offering programs to encourage park visits, and collaborating with healthcare providers to ensure patients receive the support they need to complete their ParkRx.
- Community Collaboration: ParkRx initiatives often involve partnerships between healthcare providers, park professionals, and community organizations to promote health through nature. This is known as a multilevel approach, addressing health promotion at individual, organizational, and community levels simultaneously. Multilevel approaches are particularly effective because they create supportive environments and systems that reinforce healthy behaviors across various aspects of people's lives, increasing the likelihood of sustained positive change.
Why ParkRx Works
Utilizing nature as a pathway to health makes physical activity more enjoyable and accessible. Instead of viewing exercise as a chore, individuals can embrace activities like walking, biking, or even simply relaxing in a park.
A Healthier Future
As we face rising rates of chronic diseases linked to physically inactive lifestyles, initiatives like ParkRx are crucial. By promoting the healing and health promoting power of nature, we can foster healthier communities and encourage everyone to take a step outside for their well-being. Someone’s next step toward better health might just be a walk in the park. Encourage others to embrace the opportunity to fill their ParkRx today!
Deborah A Cohen, Steven F. Loy, Esmeralda Castro, Aaron Hipp, Tim Hughes and Andrew Kaczynski are the National Physical Activity Plan’s Community Sector Committee members who contributed to this blog post. Thanks to special contributor Zachary S. Farley, MPH, Doctoral Candidate at University of Oregon.
The National Physical Activity Plan (NPAP) is a set of policies, programs, and initiatives to help support physical activity among individuals in the United States. This posting is the second in an ongoing blog series to inform park and recreation professionals about the strategies in the Community Recreation, Fitness and Parks (CRFP) physical activity sector.