COLUMBIA, S.C. — South Carolina health officials say the state's smoke-free parks are a great place to celebrate Family Health and Fitness Day on Saturday, and data shows that these places could help people meet their health goals.
On Thursday, the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) said that people who use parks and open spaces are three times more likely to achieve recommended physical activity goals.
The agency said adults should get at least 150 minutes of physical activity each week, but this can be broken up and doesn't have to happen all at once. Children from six to 17 should get an hour of activity every day. Children from three to five years should remain active throughout the day.
DHEC said the benefits aren't limited to physical health.
"Studies show that spending time in parks improves mental health and cognitive function for all ages," the agency said.
Lori Phillips, DHEC's division director of nutrition, physical activity and obesity prevention, said many people spend a lot of time in front of a screen and less time outdoors. She said spending time outdoors can help decrease stress, lower blood pressure and decrease the risk of obesity, cancer, diabetes and heart disease.
Authorities added that the parks being smoke-free and vape-free also help prevent some of the issues associated with them - for smokers and those who inhale secondhand smoke - including cancer and heart attacks.
“Healthy recreational environments should promote physical activity, encourage personal development, and minimize exposure to tobacco use,” said Hellen Dekle, DHEC's secondhand smoke and vaping aerosol protection manager.
DHEC said South Carolina is home to 15 municipalities with designated smoke-free parks. To learn about smoke-free settings in the state, visit the DHEC website. Information about the state's trails can be found at SCTrails.net.
