Physical Activity/Fitness

Outcome: Adequate opportunities for exercise and widespread participation

Example Strategies:

• Encourage local clubs, such as running, biking, paddling or walking that engage people in exercise
• Support construction of sidewalks and pedestrian or bike-friendly communities so that movement is an easy part of everyday living
• Support for adequate facilities for individual, school and league activities
• Development of trails for running, biking, or water activities
• Investments build on the region’s natural attractions to both draw tourists and engage residents to physical activity

Indicators:

• Community is known as one of Virginia’s “most bikeable” communities
• Increase in utilization rates of trails, river access or public facilities utilization rate show increase
• School data on physical fitness or obesity show improvement
• Increased participation in community-organized sporting events
• Increased participation in sporting groups, clubs, or sport leagues

Examples of Current and Past Investments:

• Alleghany Highlands YMCA (pool, walking track, exercise and weight room)
• Alleghany County — Jackson River Scenic Trail (soon-to-be-fourteen-mile biking, walking, and horseback riding trail)
• City of Covington – Jackson River Sports Complex
• Clifton Forge Little League – Linden Park, Matthews Park, and Col. Dotson Sports Complex
• Town of Clifton Forge – Linden Park Improvements and Smith Creek Corridor Trail
• Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce & Tourism – Lake Moomaw Fishing Tournaments and Blueways Initiative