For Immediate Release

Wednesday, April 26, 2017

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Andover Health Division Encourages Outdoor Exercise

ANDOVER — As the warm spring weather begins to arrive, the Andover Health Division actively encourages residents to consider exercising outside. Andover has many ideal outdoor venues for walking, running or biking outside in the fresh air.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that people get at least 150 minutes of light exercise or 75 minutes of high intensity exercise per week. Regular exercise can reduce the risk of diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and some types of cancer.

“Getting outside and enjoying the many beautiful sceneries that Andover has to offer can make physical activity much more enjoyable. Exercise is something that everyone needs to budget time for in the schedules, and Andover is a perfect place for outdoor activities,” Director of Public Health Thomas Carbone said. “Outdoor exercise also gives residents the opportunity to meet their neighbors and develop a stronger sense of community, as well as improving mental health and attitude.”

Among Andover’s outdoor activity venues are the Ward Reservation and the reservations owned by the Andover Village Improvement Society (A.V.I.S.). Visit the A.V.I.S. website for a complete list of reservations and an Andover Trail Guide.

Residents can also use Andover’s geographic information system or any of the popular mobile workout apps to map or measure their walking, running or biking routes.

When exercising outdoors, the Andover Health Division reminds residents to make sure they drink plenty of water, wear insect repellent and sunscreen, and check for ticks afterward. Stop your workout if you feel dizzy, lightheaded or have sharp muscle pain. If any of these problems persist reduce the intensity of your workout and contact your physician.

Additionally, runners and joggers are reminded to run against traffic when running in the road and to wear reflective clothing to increase visibility. Pedestrians should stay on sidewalks whenever they are available and should remain alert when running near cars. Bicyclists should always wear a helmet — especially parents who should model the behavior for their children — and ride on the right hand side of the road, obeying all traffic laws.

For more information about outdoor exercise ideas, contact the Andover Health Division at 978-623-8640.

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