An hour a day outdoors in PA

Remember that New Year’s resolution to exercise more? As the weather warms, why not get moving outside?

Not only can you enjoy watching nature in bloom, but you’ll boost your mental health, improve your sleep and enhance your immune system.

Walk this way

Walking is great exercise for folks of all ages. It’s a low-impact cardio workout that can help you lose weight, control your blood pressure, increase core strength and reduce the risk of a heart attack and developing diabetes, just to name a few benefits. And you don’t have to be a speed walker or runner. Take a relaxing stroll for the same positive effects as running or a rigorous walk.

Pennsylvania boasts a wealth of trails, parks and recreation areas to explore on your walks. One hidden gem in north-central PA is Sinnemahoning State Park in Austin. Enjoy an abundance of wildlife, two scenic hiking trails and a wheelchair-accessible viewing platform at the northern trailhead.

Spin your wheels

Two wheels is a twofer! Along with being low-impact exercise, bicycling is easy to incorporate into your daily life. Hop on your bike to run errands or visit a friend. Cycling builds lower body muscles, increases flexibility and improves balance. It can even help with conditions like arthritis by getting joints moving without adding stress. That, in turn, increases blood supply and joint fluid, lubricating your joints and decreasing arthritis pain.

Ride along a Rails to Trails path for a scenic adventure. Did you know Pennsylvania has more rail-trails than any other state? The 18-mile Lebanon Valley Rail-Trail, one of the top trails in PA, allows you to tour state game lands, forests, fields and farms. Just remember to wear a helmet, whether you’re cruising a bike path, trail or the open road.

For a different experience, search for electric railbikes in your area. The bikes fit onto railroad tracks and are powered by easy pedaling. Enjoy the scenery while you take a relaxing trip through the countryside.

Paddle a path to health

Take wellness to the water with a canoe, kayak, paddleboard or rowboat. Rowing or paddling strengthens your arms, shoulders, core and back. The water offers resistance, making it a perfect exercise for toning muscles.

Even better, you don’t have to sink a lot of money into buying a boat. Many state parks rent watercraft for a reasonable fee. It’s a good way to try out a new exercise and enjoy some beautiful waterways, like Raystown Lake in Huntingdon County — the largest lake entirely in PA. A calm, flatwater lake, it’s perfect for beginners and pros alike. Wherever you choose to paddle, be sure to wear a personal flotation device, check weather conditions and go with a buddy if you can.