You have been working hard on your fitness level, great job!  Now that summer is finally in full swing, we thought you should take a break and go on a picnic.  Of course (being us), we still want to keep your plan healthy… shall we call it a Fitnic?  Anyway, we broke things down to help make your picnic the best possible.

Destination

Some popular spots in Western Mass are:  1-Quabbin Reservoir; 2-Stanley Park, Westfield; 3-Mt Tom, Holyoke/Easthampton; 4-Barton’s Cove, Gill; 5-Peaked Mountain, Monson

Dog Friendly: 1-Fountain Park, 883 Tinkham Rd, Wilbraham; 2-Northampton Dog Park

(Be very careful with your dog when it is hot, especially if your pet is not acclimated)

Not too far away in Connecticut:  1-Elizabeth Park, Hartford; 2-Bigelow Hollow State Park, Union; 3- Shenipsit State Forest, Stafford/Somers/Ellington

Activities

 Walking Paths        Bike Trails        Hiking Trails        Swimming

 Kite Flying        Kayaking/Canoeing        Frisbee         Squirt-gun Tag

 

Food & Beverage

Try some of these web recipes for a simple yet fresh picnic…

Fresh Fruit Drink: https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1012543-watermelon-or-cantaloupe-agua-fresca

Easy Slaw: https://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/browse-all-recipes/cabbage-apple-slaw

Fruit & Yogurt Parfait: http://allrecipes.com/recipe/55813/summer-berry-parfait-with-yogurt-and-granola/

Chicken Pita: http://www.yummly.co/#recipe/Cucumber-Chicken-Pita-Sandwiches-1530767

Veggie Spring Roll: http://www.yummly.co/#recipe/Fresh-Vegetable-Spring-Rolls-1405858

 

Considerations

Scope out a shady spot, it might get too hot or too sunny (won’t believe we said that next winter!).

Stay hydrated and have extra water in a cooler.

Bring sunscreen with high enough SPF and remember to re-apply.

Bring Natural bug repellant and a first aid kit just in case.

Have appropriate protective gear and safety equipment for your activities.

Avoid sugary foods as they can attract unwanted pests.

Important: Bring home your trash and recyclables if there are no receptacles!

Join the CFIT Green Team 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This article is intended to provide general knowledge of health and fitness principles and should not be taken as medical advice or used to diagnose health problems or for treatment purposes. It is not a substitute for medical care provided by a licensed and qualified health professional. Always consult your doctor or licensed healthcare provider for personalized advice on diet and exercise.