10 healthy spring activities

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  • Boise’s beautiful foothills rise up against the Treasure Valley, providing majestic scenery, and an open invitation to get out and enjoy some fresh air. When’s the last time you headed out for a hike? There are trails for all ages and abilities, so don’t hesitate to gather your family and friends for some exercise. You can check trail conditions by clicking on this link.
  • From Olympian Kristin Armstrong to the casual weekend cyclist, Treasure Valley folks take their bikes seriously. Whether you want to get out and ride through our local foothills or take on a road course, there are numerous opportunities. So dust off that two-wheeled wonder in your garage, check the pressure in the tires and grease the chain. And please, don’t forget your helmet.
  • Are you suffering from March Madness? If you’re bracket’s been busted—thanks Gonzaga—then get off the couch and head to the park for a pickup game. Whether you want to show off your finger roll skills, practice a little cherry picking, or just kill a little time with a friendly game of HORSE, grab a basketball and get out there.
  • After winning the Arnold Palmer Invitational and resuming his reign as the top-ranked golfer in the world, even Tiger Woods is proud to say “I am Tiger Woods” again. If you’ve got a few hours and are looking for a way to stay active and enjoy the beautiful weather, give golf a try. It’s a great way to stretch those legs and work on your hand-eye coordination while soaking up a little vitamin D. 
  • Remember those carefree spring days out on the lawn, flinging that brightly colored disc in the breeze? Can’t you just smell the freshly cut grass while you think about it? You don’t have to be a kid, or a dog, to enjoy a game of Frisbee. Of course you might want to bring along your kids, and/or your dog, when you play. 
  • Speaking of carefree childhood memories, the hula hoop is one of the most enduring, yet best kept, home exercise secrets. Whittle your waist and work on your balance as you twirl the day away. Extra points if you go out and do it on your front lawn.
  • Unfortunately, there are no Oceanside beaches in Idaho, but you can pretend. Set up a net in your backyard or use one at a local park. Practice your serve, set and dig. Volleyball is a great full-body workout, and it can be fun for all ages.
  • Out in Ann Morrison Park, near the softball fields, you’ll find bocce courts. This game has been around for centuries. Hippocrates played, and so did Galileo. We often associate it with older European men, spending their afternoons in the park. But anyone can play bocce ball. Get out there and give this leisurely spring activity a try.
  • Here’s a springtime activity that will get your heart pumping and allow you to soak up some sunshine. With several tennis clubs throughout the Treasure Valley, and public courts located in numerous parks and schools, there are plenty of opportunities to get out and play. Whether you want to perfect your backhand or have a knack for fierce competition, tennis can be a great way to burn those springtime calories.
  • This springtime activity has dual benefits. Not only will you burn some calories with all the digging, carrying supplies, and hauling dirt, you’ll also be ensuring that you’ve got a supply of healthy foods in your future. With snow on the mountains, it’s still a little early to put plants in the ground, but you can do the prep work now and be ready when the snow melts.
Hula hoop
Photo: MorgueFile

Hula hoop

Speaking of carefree childhood memories, the hula hoop is one of the most enduring, yet best kept, home exercise secrets. Whittle your waist and work on your balance as you twirl the day away. Extra points if you go out and do it on your front lawn.

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, Boise Healthy Living Examiner

A former athlete and fitness instructor, Donna Bush is a married mother of two who is passionate about helping families learn how to get fit and stay healthy for each other. Your family deserves it!