Volunteering and fitness each can have positive health benefits. Why not combine them as an enjoyable way to spend time and make a positive difference? Better yet, round up a few friends and family members and get in some socializing, too! Here are five fun ways you can get in shape—and give back, too.
Participate in a fun run or other charitable sports event
From 5K runs and walks that raise money for various causes to golf outings that give you a day on the links, charitable sports events give you a perfect way to enjoy one of your favorite activities and burn a few calories, too. Find out about events by getting on the email list of your local running club or checking your local newspaper or its website for upcoming activities. The AARP Walk Audit Tool Kit and its accompanying worksheets can help you and your neighbors evaluate the safety of the streets and sidewalks in your community — and then share with local leaders your findings about needed repairs and improvements.
Join a community garden
Community gardens are great assets to their areas, but they also need tending. You’ll have an opportunity to plant, nurture, and harvest fruits and vegetables—and you may even get to enjoy the fruits of your labor. No community garden near you? Think about starting one. This hand do-it-yourself guide can help.
Be a coach
Local youth sports leagues often need volunteers and coaches to do everything from teaching kids the game to running the concession stand. Check with your local recreation league, college or university, or nonprofit sports groups. Higher-level positions may require some previous experience as a coach, and you may need to pass a background check if you’re working with children.
Find the fitness fun
Community centers, summer camps, and even the local YMCA all have opportunities to get fit and also need volunteers. (For camps, sites like the American Camp Association or Summer Program Search to find the right opportunity.) Get involved and help organize fitness classes—or groups that attend them. A report from the University of Iowa found that people are more likely to stick to exercise routines when they do them in groups. And your exercise buddies may even help change your attitude about exercise to be more positive.
Add some animals
Volunteering at animal shelters and rescues may give you the opportunity to walk dogs and play with other pets, all of which get you moving. You can also volunteer to walk your neighbor’s dog while they’re at work or under the weather. If you live near a zoo, animal park, or wildlife rehabilitation center, you may find they need help that requires some physical labor—cleaning out pens, conducting walking tours, or other movement-based activities.
Looking for other opportunities to volunteer? Be sure to check out www.createthegood.org for ideas.