Hit the Trail

Physical activity is one of the best ways to improve your health, longevity and quality of life; and walking, an activity in which relatively large numbers of persons can engage, is a wonderful way to get more physical activity. Infrastructure that supports walking includes but is not limited to sidewalks, footpaths, and walking and hiking trails, and has been associated with increased physical activity in adults and children. Interventions aimed at supporting the built environment include marked trails, improved street lighting, safe street crossings, use of traffic calming approaches, and enhanced street landscaping. Although there are many options for modifying the environment to allow for increased physical activity, community trails have a unique advantage in that they can accommodate different types of physical activity by people of all ages.

Modifying the environments where people live and work is effective in helping people incorporate healthier behaviors into their daily lives. There is a wealth of informational material available for communities that want to improve their health and well-being. Here are some suggestions:

• Strides to a Healthy Community — HealthySD tool kit provides information and tools for creating healthier communities, including policy and environmental changes to promote healthy lifestyles. Includes science-based guidelines, examples of strategies and activities, survey forms, a sample workplan and budget, and other resources.

• Community Walking Tool Kit — HealthySD tool kit offers step-by-step guidance to form a walking club, keep members motivated, and garner local support for increasing community walkability. Highlights organizations and resources to support communities in their walking program efforts.

• The Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance Program (RTCA) — offers assistance to help communities build trails, save unspoiled landscapes and parks, and protect local rivers.
  • Information about assistance available, how to apply, and descriptions of current projects
  • Information about projects in South Dakota and the region (features Centerville, SD)