KHI NEWS SERVICE
TOPEKA, Oct. 16
A conference focusing on ways communities can build healthier environments is scheduled for Oct. 18 and 19 in Lawrence.
The “Built Environment and Trails Summit,” sponsored by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, Kansas Recreation and Parks Association, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks and the Kansas Department of Transportation will promote changes to the “built environment”
the man-made features that surround places where people are active.
Summit discussions and hands-on training will include:
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How a healthy built environment becomes a reality
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How community collaboration and grassroots advocacy can effect change
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Successes of completed trails in Kansas
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Future trail planning and development needs
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Skill development for building trails
Conference participants will include community planners, engineers, city council members, local health department officials, members of biking and walking trail coalitions, park and recreation personnel, and community advocates.
Research shows physical activity improves quality of life and can prevent or ease the symptoms of many chronic diseases including hypertension, stroke, arthritis and diabetes. Walking has been shown to increase longevity, reduce stress, improve complexion, manage weight and reduce hypertension.
According to KDHE, only 49 percent of Kansans meet the physical activity recommendation of 30 minutes per day at least five days a week. Surveys in 2006 found 26 percent of Kansas adults were obese.
For more information on the summit, which will take place at the Holiday Inn Holidome in Lawrence, visit
http://www.kdheks.gov/bhp/healthy_ks_comm
.