Sports, Fitness
and Parks Tips
Walking is the number one participation sport
worldwide. It's easy to do and requires no special skills, equipment or
clothing. All you need is a good pair of walking shoes. Except for some
physically challenged individuals, everyone can enjoy the many benefits of
a regular walking program, including enhanced stamina, reduced tension,
improved muscle tone, weight control and lowered blood pressure. Try it.
You'll like it.
Use common
sense when dressing for cold weather outdoor activities, even here in the
South. When the weather is really cold, cover your head and all
extremities -- mittens, hat, insulated jacket, thermal underwear and an
extra pair of socks are recommended. Layering your clothes allows you to
remove excess clothing if you get too warm.
Include a
basic First Aid Kit in your car, boat, bike bag and fishing gear. Besides
adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment and gauze pads,
be sure to carry small scissors, tweezers, cloth for a sling, plastic
sandwich baggies, an elastic bandage and pain reliever. If you have room,
take along some of those great instant ice packs, too.
When you're paddling the
marshes, fishing on the shore, strolling the beaches or wandering the
woods with your dog in tow, be vigilant for biting parasites found in
these parts, including mosquitoes, ticks and fleas. All are carriers of
irritation and disease. Use appropriate repellents for both you and your
pet, and inspect yourself and your pet carefully when you return from your
outing.
Although
they usually make you look terrific, spray-on, brush-on and wipe-on
tanning products don't protect you from the sun's burning rays -- you have
to use sunscreen as well.
Be a good
spectator. Have respect for participants, fans, coaches and those whose
job it is to referee or judge activities you enjoy watching. Don't spoil
an event for yourself or others by being obnoxious, violent, overly
boisterous, rude or destructive.
