GO ANOKA COUNTY is an online resource filled with information that identifies opportunities to engage in physical activity. Much of the outdoors activities encourage us to enjoy and appreciate our environment and natural resources as we build and improve our health and stamina. See what it’s all about in 41 seconds with the GoAnokaCounty video (YouTube; AnokaCountyMN; 0:41).

GET READY: Starting a fitness program may be one of the best things you can do for your health. Physical activity can reduce your risk of chronic disease, improve your balance and coordination, help you lose weight — even improve your sleep habits and self-esteem.

GET SET: Starting an exercise program is challenging at first, but if you stay with it, you will find it enjoyable and one that your body looks forward to doing:

• Start slowly – build up gradually working your way up the fitness ladder.
• Break things up – you don’t have to do all your exercise at once.
• Be creative – bike one day, swim another, hike the next (just don’t stop).
• Listen to your body – if you feel pain, dizziness or nausea, take a break.
• Be flexible – not feeling good then take a day or two off.

GET GOING: map out your fitness plan with the Go Anoka County Map application to find where to can get your exercise (Anoka County YouTube videos): walking, running, swimming (Bunker Beach), biking, hiking, AquaZumba, snowshoeing, golf, skating, cross-country skiing, tennis, geocaching, summer camps, horseback riding, horseshoes, birdwatching, playgrounds, canoeing, archery, standup paddleboarding, volleyball, softball, soccer, just to name a few.

DOWNLOAD the Healthy Family Guide for information that will help get you going.