Walking has long been recognized by health professionals as a gentle, low-impact exercise that can help anyone of any age transition to a higher level of fitness and health. Staff at Broward County parks have long promoted walking, and encourage residents to visit a regional or neighborhood park to get started.
“Walking is something almost everyone can do, and our parks are perfect for it,” says Parks and Recreation Director Dan West. “Parks provide places to walk that are both safe and convenient, not to mention beautiful.”
Topeekeegee Yugnee (T.Y.) Park in Hollywood has approximately 2,500 registered walkers who regularly walk the two-mile asphalt path around the park. “Our walkers and joggers come whenever the park is open,” said Margie Grimes, park manager at T.Y. “They can register at the park office, free of charge, and log their miles each time they come. We maintain their daily miles and keep a running total.” Staff also awards Walking Club T-Shirts (donated by Friends of T.Y.) to those who reach milestones for miles walked, from 100 to 5,000 miles.
Grimes estimates that 75 to 100 registered walkers go to the park each day for their exercise, in addition to many other walkers and runners who are in the park daily but have never registered.
One 72-year-old avid walker, said, “T.Y. is fabulous. I love the lake and all the trees and walkways. The park is beautiful and clean, a haven for peace and serenity. I am so pleased with the walking program and received my 1,000 mile T-shirt. I have lost 15 pounds and look and feel fabulous.”
Residents who want to start walking at a measured, shorter distance can try the Rev. Samuel Delevoe Memorial Park in Fort Lauderdale where the walking trail is just one-half mile. “We have about 150 dedicated, faithful walkers,” said Diane Whatley, park manager.
Hollywood North Beach Park features both a two- and five-mile loop. “Our walkers can choose the two-mile loop along Surf Road or the five-mile walk on the Hollywood Broadwalk along the ocean. It’s great,” said Laurel Person, park manager, who also awards T-shirts for miles walked, beginning at 100 miles.
Whether it’s walking or jogging, Broward County Parks offer numerous activities, from organized sports teams, such as softball and flag football; to tennis, hiking, skateboarding and a pickup game of volleyball. “We encourage all residents to come out and get fresh air and exercise,” said Bob Newland, Park Manager at T.Y. “And it’s all so easy and simple.”
For more information on all of Broward County Parks and specific park hours, visit Broward County Parks and Recreation at broward.org/parks.
