NRPA celebrates Family Health & Fitness Day, Saturday, June 11
Celebrated the second Saturday in June each year, Family Health & Fitness Day is an opportunity for everyone to get out and discover all the health benefits provided by their local park and recreation department. Organized by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), Family Health & Fitness Day promotes the importance of local parks and recreation in keeping communities healthy.
Park and recreation departments nationwide offer year-round opportunities for families and individuals to stay active and healthy. In fact, living close to parks and other recreation facilities is consistently related to higher physical activity levels for both adults and youth.
As little as 20 minutes a day spent outdoors helps reduce stress. According to a poll conducted by the National Recreation and Park Association, 58 percent of U.S. adults spend more than 30 minutes a day outside.
Agencies everywhere are encouraged to participate by inviting families to get active at their local park or recreation center, or by safely hosting an event, such as a health fair or family fun run, on Saturday, June 11. Members of the healthcare community also are encouraged to participate, even as sponsors of local events. Community members can find information about Family Health & Fitness Day through their local park and recreation agency, or by visiting nrpa.org/familyfitness.
“Research studies have confirmed what we have already known. Community parks and recreation, green spaces and time outdoors are critical for creating healthy, active and sustainable communities,” said Kristine Stratton, NRPA president and CEO. “Parks and recreation play a critical role in supporting our mental and physical well-being, and Family Health & Fitness Day is a great opportunity to celebrate this.”
To learn more about Family Health & Fitness Day, visit nrpa.org/familyfitness.
Follow the conversation on NRPA’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram using #NRPAFamilyFitDay.
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About the National Recreation and Park Association
The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) is the leading not-for-profit organization dedicated to building strong, vibrant and resilient communities through the power of parks and recreation. With more than 60,000 members, NRPA advances this mission by investing in and championing the work of park and recreation professionals and advocates — the catalysts for positive change in service of equity, climate-readiness, and overall health and well-being. For more information, visit nrpa.org. For digital access to NRPA’s flagship publication, Parks & Recreation, visit parksandrecreation.org.