What is Seattle Parks And Recreation's Healthy Parks, Healthy You
Initiative?
The Healthy Parks Healthy You Initiative (HPHY) is designed to promote physical activity and wellness programs
that serve our diverse community. Parks and Recreation partners
with Public Health-Seattle & King County to plan and implement different
components of the initiative. Community health statistics demonstrate
the need for intentional action when it comes to enhancing the health
of our citizens.
One specific indicator of health - obesity rates – is on the rise
in King County. Fifty-four percent of King County adults were deemed
overweight in 2004, up from 37% in 1987. Obesity can lead to significant
health problems including diabetes, increased risk for certain types
of cancer, and heart disease. Did you know that just 30 minutes of moderate
exercise most days of the week, combined with a healthier diet, can
be enough to make a difference?
Seattle Parks offers citizens endless opportunities to achieve those
30 minutes of moderate exercise at our trails, playgrounds, gyms, pools,
fitness classes, athletic fields, beaches, and more. We’ve decided
to take advantage of this natural fit and encourage people to use our
public system of parks, pools, community centers and golf courses to
have fun AND get fit.
The components of the HPHY Initiative are consistent with National Recreation
and Parks Association’s “Step in to Action: Guidelines to
Community Health and Livability” program, which outlines specific
action steps parks and recreation and public health agencies can take
to improve the health and livability of our communities.
Parks established The Healthy Parks Healthy You Committee in 2008 with the goal of bringing the HPHY Initiative to life. The Committee
is responsible for developing, implementing and evaluating specific
“Action Items” that support healthy programs and lifestyles.
HPHY members serve as ambassadors for the health initiative to the public
and to Parks employees.
See some hardy souls take on the HP3 Challenge in West Seattle!
Thank You To Our Sponsors!
Healthy ParksHealthy
You Initiative Building Your Healthy Tomorrow TODAY!
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