Did you know that one in four adults sit for more than eight hours a day? While a little rest is fine, living a completely sedentary life is dangerous for your health. Even something as simple as 15 minutes of stretching or a daily walk around the block can help you live better for years to come.
At K21, we understand the value of physical activity, especially here in Kosciusko County.
Here are four reasons to move every day:
- Sharper memory & better mood
Physical activity sends a signal for your brain to release endorphins. These chemicals are responsible for feelings of happiness and well-being. The endorphins released not only help you feel better, but they help you think better too. Enhanced concentration and mental sharpness are just two of the many cognitive benefits of exercise.
- Weight loss & maintenance
Research has shown that inactivity is one of the main risk factors for weight gain and obesity. But, by increasing your activity, you can also increase your metabolism. While metabolisms slow over time, staying active can help you maintain a healthy rate and weight as you age.
- Better sleep
The best way to get a good night’s sleep is to stay active during the day. Physical activity in the morning and afternoon can reset your sleep cycle, allowing it to prompt sleepiness when you are ready to go to bed later in the evening.
- Healthy muscles & bones
As we age, our bones become weaker and more fragile. As little as 30 minutes of physical activity each day can help strengthen your bones and prevent conditions such as osteoporosis. Activities such as walking, jogging, and climbing are great places to start.
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How to Get Moving
It is vital to stay active, and in Kosciusko County we have plenty of opportunities to get moving. You could take a hike, ride a bike, or jump in the lake. Try out everything from trails to beaches!
Walking & Biking the Trails
Nothing encourages physical activity like a beautiful trail. Whether you’re walking, running, or biking, Kosciusko County’s nearly 200 miles of bikeways, greenways, and mountain bike trails are a great way to get moving.
The two-mile Heritage Trail runs from the south side of Winona Lake to Warsaw and beyond, and it’s part of the larger Lake City Greenway. From the beach through a wooded tract with a clear brook, the trail takes you by sculptures from the Heritage Trail Art Project.
After exploring the Heritage Trail, try completing the Lake City Greenway. Chinworth Bridge Trail and Beyer Farm Trail encompass almost five miles of asphalt and boardwalk trails showcasing wetlands, historic bridges, and iron bridges. Don’t miss the newly completed Conklin Bay Trail in Syracuse, which extended the already existing 11 miles of trails in the area.
The Winona Lake Trails comprise a mountain bike course offering a variety of levels with uphill climbs, fast descents, and flat sections. It has a reputation as one of the best in the region.
Swimming & Splashing
Kosciusko County beaches are a great way to get active while spending time with your family outside, in the sun, and on the sand. Kosciusko County has 6 public beaches to choose from in different communities in our county.
Center Lake Beach and Pike Lake Beach in Warsaw have playground areas and a pier, as well as parks fitted with grills and tables for picnics, with Center also having an interactive fountain.
The Winona Lake Beach is another great place for swimming and splashing; it’s a part of Winona’s Limitless Park, where the rule is “fun for everyone.” In addition to the beach, there is a playground, splash pad, courts, and pavilions for picnics–perfect for a family outing. Don’t forget the other beaches in our county, such as in Milford, Syracuse, and North Webster.
With all that Kosciusko County has to offer, staying active is easy!
