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Be an 'Outsider' This Summer

Fight the Indoor Epidemic With Park and Recreation Month's Fun and Games

Whether you consider yourself outdoorsy or not, the summer shine makes the whole family excited to stretch their legs and get some fresh air—especially kids. But when summer temperatures get in the way of fun, sometimes it’s easier to turn on the TV and stay inside. As Americans, we spend an average of 95% of our lives indoors. Our health could be affected. This summer, #BeAnOutsider as you get your Game On and play it cool.

In this tech-driven world, it’s no surprise that Americans see more screen than green, explains Chandler Parks & Recreation Manager Joe Petrella.

“We are in the midst of an indoor epidemic due to Arizona summers and our digital and sedentary lifestyles. Recreation is all about the power of play and adventure, and Park and Recreation Month provides us with the perfect opportunity to be part of the solution,” says Joe. “Studies have confirmed that parks and recreation, community green space, and time outdoors is critical for creating healthy, active and sustainable communities. Some have even suggested that people feel reduced stress, improved mood, and increased energy the more time they spend outside.”

So this July—and all summer long—Chandler Parks & Rec is leading initiatives and providing opportunities for the community to achieve healthier lifestyles through a variety of programs, special events and services. Whether it’s summer camp, an adult sports league, learning to swim, exploring nature, or meeting friends in the park, parks and play go hand-and-hand in helping you live well.

Visit ChandlerAZ.gov/breaktime to build your summer, with an eye towards keeping the fun high and indoor opportunities to a minimum.

  • On average we spend 95% of our lives indoors
  • By the time you’re 35 years old, you’ve spent the equivalent of about 33 years indoors
  • We spend almost 4x more time watching TV than going outdoors

Top Activities Keeping Us Indoors

  • 4.75% Relaxing & Leisure
  • 4.58% Eating & Drinking
  • 2.88% Grooming