PORTVILLE, N.Y. — The Pfeiffer Nature Center in Portville will host its second annual New Year’s Day Hike for Your Health on Sunday.
The program will begin at 10 a.m. and is expected to last one hour.
Everyone knows the physical benefits of hiking, such as building cardio-respiratory strength, toning muscles, promoting weight loss and decreasing high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, cholesterol and triglycerides. However, the mental benefits are less not as well-known. Outdoor exercise makes for better sleep, brighter moods, an increased attention span and more creativity.
According to the center, hiking is a physically and mentally beneficial activity that is very easy to start, as very little is needed in the way of equipment. Participants in the New Year’s hike need only a pair of comfortable hiking shoes, and the center will provide the beautiful setting and companionship.
The hike will be moderately strenuous — which, in terms of exercise, means hikers will be able to talk but not sing during the activity. The trek is not an interpretive hike, so stops will not be made along the trails. Any sharing of information will occur as casual, friendly banter amongst the participants. The hike will take place at the Lillibridge Preserve at 1974 Lillibridge Road in Portville.
The hike is free to the public. It will take place rain or shine, but it may be canceled in the event of extreme weather conditions. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Pre-registration is not required.
For more information, contact the Pfeiffer Nature Center administration office by calling 716-933-0187 or visiting the website www.pfeiffernaturecenter.org.
