HE Parks Holds Free Community Walking Program
The Hoffman Estates Park District (HE Parks) invites the community to a free walking event, called Hoffman Walks. The next event is Sat. Sept. 16 from 9-10:30 a.m. at Cannon Crossings Park (1675 Nicholson). The theme of this walk is "team pride". Participants are encouraged to wear their favorite team's logo-wear.
On one Saturday each month, HE Parks hosts a 1.5-hour walk at a park or facility open to all ages and abilities. Participants can walk as long as they'd like.
"Walking is a great way to improve health, well-being and peace of mind," said Mike Kies, director of recreation and facilities for HE Parks.
The benefits of walking are numerous, including boosting energy, reducing the effects of sitting, improving strength and heart function. In September 2015, the Surgeon General issued a Call To Action to increase walking among Americans of all ages. It stated that one out of every two adults in America living with a chronic disease such as heart disease, cancer or diabetes, and recommended that increasing activity level through walking can significantly reduce risk of chronic disease.
"We felt that walking is an easy, entry-level type of activity," said Colleen Palmer, superintendent of recreation for HE Parks. "Our hope is that once an individual makes walking a habit, that this will lead them to more kinds of activity."
Registration is not required, but the park district would like all to RSVP online at heparks.org or by email smanisco@heparks.org.
This event series is for you if you want to spend more time with family, make new friends, improve your health, explore nature or whatever your reason. Pick up a Hoffman Walks Passport at an event. Participants can have it their passports initialed by HE Parks Staff at each event to earn a prize after the fifth event. Upcoming dates include:
Oct. 14 - Hoffman Walks Kicks off Pumpkin Fest at Vogelei Park (650 W. Higgins Rd.) Free Pumpkin Fest family event follows the walk.
Nov 4 - Veterans Hero Walk at South Ridge Park (1450 Freeman Rd). Walk to honor heroes.
Dec 2 - Winter Wonderland at Prairie Stone Sports & Wellness Center (5050 Sedge Blvd). Will be held on the adjacent nature trail (or inside on the track, if weather is inclement.)
Future events will be posted in the park district's program guide. For more information, visit heparks.org.