The Parks PlayBook: Come on, get healthy!

This June celebrates the 20th anniversary of National Men’s Health Month. On Tuesday, June 10, the Des Plaines Park District and the City of Des Plaines Health and Human Services Division will host their first annual Men’s Health and Fitness Day, at Prairie Lakes Community Center. The day is designed to bring an awareness to health issues facing men and boys so that they can be proactive and take control of their own well-being. As men age, they face many unique health challenges. One of the keys to an active life is a better understanding and recognition of the symptoms and risk factors for diseases.

Men’s Health and Fitness Day focuses on the steps and lifestyle choices men can take to improve and maintain good health, and lower their risks for serious illness. Featured at Health Day are: Dick Pond Athletics, a running specialty retailer; the Des Plaines Public Library, with information and resources on healthy choices; Presence Health’s Keys to Recovery, Sleep Disorder Clinic, and Rehabilitation Services; Park Ridge Psychological Services; and Juice Plus. Also on hand will be nurses for free blood pressure screening, and personal trainers from the Des Plaines Park District.

Talking with a personal trainer is often the best first step to making a healthy lifestyle change. Our trainers can help design a customized fitness program to meet both your needs and your schedule. While you are at Prairie Lakes, don’t forget to take a tour of the Fitness Center, gym, cycling room, racquetball courts, indoor walking track, and the showers, sauna, and whirlpool in the locker rooms. Our full service facility has all the amenities necessary to help you get fit, relieve stress, stay active, and have fun.

Men notice when their car doesn’t perform properly, but they don’t always listen when their body tells them it’s time to see a doctor. Tuesday is the day to rev up your engine and drive over to Prairie Lakes for a pain-free way to take the first steps towards a healthier life!

Men’s Health Day, Tuesday, June 10, 3:00-7:00pm, Prairie Lakes Community Center, 515 E, Thacker St. The event is free. All are welcome. Just drop in!

Find information about the Fitness Center at Prairie Lakes, personal training, and the dozens of fitness classes offered by the Des Plaines Park District in the summer Spectrum online at www.DPParks.org.

See you around the parks!