Your Guide to a Safe and Healthy Summer

June 23, 2025 by Leave a comment

Are you prepared for summer? Well, it’s not all about packing the perfect beach bag. Elevated temperatures, long afternoons, and increased sun exposure present a handful of health hazards unique to the season. If not careful, a summer afternoon by the beach or poolside picnic can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, sunburn, or worse. For these reasons, you’ll want to take the necessary precautions when spending extended time outdoors. Don’t worry, though. By following a few tips and protocols, you can enjoy all the festivities summertime has to offer—minus the sunburn.

Drink Lots of Water: Dehydration is one of summer’s greatest dangers. Bring a reusable water bottle whenever you’re outside, and if physically active or exercising, supplement your water intake with electrolyte beverages, like sports drinks or coconut water. Aim for at least six cups of water daily.

Protect Your Skin: The sun may feel warm and inviting, but its rays can seriously damage your skin. We recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30 or higher—even on a cloudy or overcast afternoon—and reapply throughout the day, especially if swimming. Opt for a mineral-based sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide if you have sensitive skin or want to avoid certain chemical ingredients Tightly woven, dark-colored clothing can also help mitigate the harmful effects of sun exposure.

Eat Hydrating Foods: Foods with high water content can help supplement your water intake and prevent dehydration. Try snacking on fresh vegetables and fruit instead of salty chips and pretzels. Cucumbers, bell peppers, lettuce, zucchini, watermelon, pineapples, and strawberries are some of the most water-rich foods.

Limit Consumption of Alcoholic Beverages: Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it increases urine production and heightens the risk of dehydration. To stay hydrated, be aware of how much you’re drinking, and try to alternate consumption of alcoholic beverages with water or a non-alcoholic option.

Check for Rashes and Bites: Insects thrive during the summer months. When walking through woods, swamps, or tall grass, be mindful of ticks, mosquitoes, snakes, and poisonous plants. Use insect repellent and wear long pants and socks when possible. After being outdoors, remember to check yourself (and family members) for ticks.

Exercise During Cooler Hours: When planning outdoor activities or exercise, try to avoid the hottest time of day (between 12:00 and 4:00 pm). Aim to get out of the house in the early morning or evening for cooler temperatures.

Know the Signs of Heat-Related Illnesses: Heat exhaustion occurs when the body overheats and can’t cool itself down. Key symptoms of heat exhaustion include profuse sweating, clammy skin, muscle cramps, headache, dizziness, fatigue, and fever.

Filed under Decatur Parks & Recreation, Exercise, Healthy Monday, Monday Campaigns Tagged with , ,

Celebrate National Bike to Work Week in Decatur!

May 12, 2025 by Leave a comment

This week marks National Bike to Work Week, and here in Decatur, we’re proud to support a culture of active transportation, sustainability, and community well-being. Whether you’re a daily bike commuter or just curious about leaving the car at home, this is the perfect time to give cycling a spin.

Why Bike to Work?
Cycling to work isn’t just a great way to start the day—it’s a small action with big impact. Choosing to bike instead of drive helps reduce traffic congestion, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and improve your physical and mental health. It’s an eco-friendly commute that energizes you before your day even begins.

Join Us for Bike to Work Day – Friday, May 16
As part of the weeklong celebration, National Bike to Work Day takes place this Friday, May 16. We’re inviting all riders to stop by Decatur’s Energizer Station for a morning boost!

Location: Green space triangle where West Howard Avenue meets Atlanta Avenue (along the PATH multi-use trail)
Time: Starting at 8:00 AM
What to Expect: Refreshments, encouragement, and camaraderie from fellow riders and Decatur staff.

Whether you’re riding solo or meeting up with coworkers and neighbors, this is a chance to feel supported and inspired. We’ll be there to cheer you on and celebrate every mile you pedal.

Keep Decatur Rolling Forward
Our community’s commitment to walkability and bikeability is what makes Decatur special. Let’s continue to build on that progress—one pedal at a time.

Hop on your bike, make the switch for a day, and join a movement that’s good for you and even better for the planet.

Filed under Bike Decatur, City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Exercise Tagged with , , , ,

Celebrate Bike Month in Decatur!

May 1, 2025 by Leave a comment

May is National Bike Month—a time to celebrate the many benefits of bicycling and encourage more people to give it a try. Established in 1956 by the League of American Bicyclists, Bike Month has grown into a nationwide celebration of cycling for recreation, transportation, and community connection.

Whether you’re a long-time cyclist or thinking about riding for the first time in years, Bike Month is the perfect time to hop on your bike and see where two wheels can take you.

Key Dates to Know

May 1 – Learn to Ride a Bike Day
We’re kicking off the month with a focus on new riders. Learning to ride a bike builds confidence, independence, and mobility. We’ll be sharing beginner tips and encouraging riders of all ages to get started.

May 7 – National Bike to School Day
Join students and families throughout Decatur in biking or walking to school. This event promotes safe routes, active living, and a strong sense of community. Schools will be celebrating with Walk & Rolls.

May 12–18 – National Bike Week
Throughout the week, we’ll highlight the many benefits of cycling. Follow along for resources, safety tips, and encouragement to keep riding.

May 16 – Bike to Work Day
Make your commute more enjoyable by biking to work. We’ll have an energizer station set up in the triangle between West Howard Avenue and Atlanta Avenue in the morning. Stop by for refreshments, bike safety gear, and a chance to connect with other riders.

May 16 – Bikes & Brews Ride
Meet at 6:30 p.m. in front of Guild+Journeyman (115 Clairemont Ave.) for a 6-mile evening group ride through Decatur. After the ride, we’ll cool down with a visit to a local brewery. Helmets are required and lights are strongly recommended.

Bike Safety Tips

Before you head out, take a few minutes to ensure your ride is safe:

  • Check your equipment: Make sure your tires are inflated, your brakes work properly, and your chain is in good condition.
  • Wear a helmet: Helmets are your best protection in the event of a fall or crash.
  • Be visible: Wear bright or reflective clothing and use front and rear bike lights, especially in low-light conditions.
  • Follow the rules of the road: Ride in the same direction as traffic, obey all traffic signals and signs, and use hand signals when turning.
  • Stay alert: Avoid using headphones while riding and keep an eye out for obstacles or opening car doors.

Why Bike?

Cycling improves physical and mental health, reduces traffic congestion, and is a sustainable, affordable way to get around. Decatur’s bike-friendly streets, trails, and community support make it easier than ever to ride for fun, fitness, or transportation.

Join us this May as we celebrate Bike Month, support safer streets, and encourage people of all ages to discover the joy of biking in Decatur.

Filed under Bike Decatur, City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Exercise, Safe Routes to School Tagged with , , ,

Get Lost in the Sights and Smells of Nature

April 14, 2025 by Leave a comment

Stepping outside and taking a breath of fresh air can help you ease your mind during moments of stress.

The next time you feel overwhelmed, take a trip to a local park, trail, or wooded area and focus on all of the sights, smells, and sounds of the world around you. By paying attention to the sound of the wind, the heat of the sun, the smell of the foliage, you’ll slowly begin to release your stress and replace it with the inherent beauty of the outdoors.

Use this Monday to take a break from the pressure and pace of a busy day and enjoy the tranquility of nature. Being outside can improve your mood, and even help put things in perspective. Studies reveal spending time in nature can actually lower cortisol, a stress hormone, and have a positive effect on blood pressure, heart rate, and muscle tension.

This week, find happiness and relaxation by spending time outside. Bring a book, some music, or a snack, and enjoy the setting.

Filed under Decatur Greenspaces, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Healthy Monday, Monday Campaigns Tagged with ,

Step Into Spring: Celebrating Walk to Work Day & National Walking Day in Decatur

April 4, 2025 by Leave a comment

April is off to a strong and sunny start here in Decatur—and what better way to kick it off than by lacing up your sneakers and celebrating two walking holidays in the same week?

On Wednesday, April 2, communities across the country marked National Walking Day, an annual reminder from the American Heart Association about the power of walking to improve our physical and mental health. Whether it was a stroll through your neighborhood, a walk to school with your child, or laps around the track, this day encouraged everyone to take the first step toward a healthier lifestyle.

And today, Friday, April 4, we’re keeping the momentum going with Walk to Work Day—a perfect opportunity to reimagine your daily commute. Even if you don’t live within walking distance of your workplace, there are creative ways to build a walk into your morning or evening routine. Try parking a little farther away, hopping off MARTA a stop early, or starting your day with a neighborhood loop before logging in from home.

Here in Decatur, we’re proud to be a city that supports walking year-round. From our tree-lined sidewalks to our growing network of greenways and crosswalks, walking is a key part of our vision for a more connected, healthy, and people-centered community. In fact, walking aligns beautifully with our Strategic Plan 2020: Destination 2030—especially the goal of creating 10-minute neighborhoods where residents can easily walk to parks, schools, shops, and services.

So whether you walked on Wednesday, today, or plan to head out over the weekend, this is your reminder that every step counts. Walking is one of the simplest, most accessible forms of exercise—and it’s also a great way to connect with your neighbors and your surroundings.

📸 Did you celebrate Walk to Work Day or National Walking Day? Tag us in your photos or stories (@decaturparksandrec)—we’d love to share your steps!

Filed under City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Exercise, Walk Decatur Tagged with , ,

Become a Certified League Cycling Instructor in Decatur

February 25, 2025 by Leave a comment

Decatur is looking for experienced cyclists to take their skills to the next level by becoming League Cycling Instructors (LCIs). This nationally recognized certification, offered by the League of American Bicyclists, provides the training needed to teach bike safety, lead community education programs, and support Decatur’s efforts to improve cycling accessibility.

Why Become an LCI?

As a certified instructor, you will be able to:

  • Teach bike education and safety courses for all ages
  • Lead group rides and skills clinics
  • Support local initiatives to improve biking infrastructure and awareness
  • Help Decatur achieve Gold-level Bicycle Friendly Community status

Training Details

  • Dates: April 26–28, 2024
  • Location: Decatur Recreation Center
  • Cost: $500 (full scholarships available!)
  • Eligibility: Participants must complete the Smart Cycling course before attending the LCI seminar.

This is a great opportunity to make biking safer and more accessible in Decatur while gaining valuable expertise. Space is limited, so apply soon!

Learn more and apply here.

For questions, contact Gael Doyle.

Filed under Bike Decatur, City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Legacy Park Tagged with , ,

Bikeability and Walkability in Decatur: A City Built for Moving

February 11, 2025 by Leave a comment

This Valentine’s season, we’re sharing the love—Decatur loves you, and we love being active! Whether you’re walking hand-in-hand through our charming streets or biking to your favorite local café, Decatur is designed to make every trip safe, scenic, and enjoyable.

With over 60 miles of tree-lined and art-filled sidewalks in just 4.7 square miles, Decatur has earned an A+ walkability score and is officially designated a “Walker’s Paradise” by WalkScore. Whether you’re a long-time resident or just visiting, choosing to walk or bike is a great way to show love for your health, your community, and the environment.

Walk There! Decatur: It’s Closer Than You Think

Decatur’s “Walk There! Decatur” campaign encourages people to choose walking over driving whenever possible. Look for Walk There! Decatur signs along sidewalks and streets, showing estimated walking times to nearby points of interest. Each sign includes a QR code so pedestrians can get real-time walking directions on their smartphones. For those without a phone, a map is provided on the back of each sign.

Why Walk?

  • It promotes physical fitness – Show your heart some love with a little extra movement.
  • It’s a greener option – Walking helps keep Decatur beautiful and sustainable.
  • It supports local businesses – Walk to your favorite date night spot or coffee shop.
  • It enhances tourism – Visitors can easily experience all the charm Decatur has to offer.

Pedal Power: Decatur as a Bike-Friendly Community

For those who love biking, Decatur has invested in infrastructure to make cycling safe and accessible. The city features:

  • Bike lanes, sharrows, and bike boxes to improve safety on the roads.
  • Plenty of bike racks in business districts for easy parking.
  • Bike repair stations strategically placed throughout the city for quick fixes.

Thanks to these efforts, Decatur has been recognized as a Silver-Level Bicycle-Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists.

Safety Tips for Walking and Biking in Decatur

For Pedestrians:
✔ Use crosswalks and obey pedestrian signals.
✔ Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at busy intersections.
✔ Walk on sidewalks whenever possible—if none are available, walk facing traffic.
✔ Be visible at night by wearing light-colored or reflective clothing.

For Cyclists:
✔ Always wear a helmet and use lights when riding at night.
✔ Follow traffic laws—bikes are considered vehicles and must obey stop signs and signals.
✔ Ride in bike lanes when available or stay as far right as practical when sharing the road.
✔ Use hand signals to communicate with drivers and pedestrians.

For Drivers:
✔ Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and give cyclists at least three feet of space when passing.
✔ Watch for bikes when turning, especially at intersections.
✔ Be mindful of designated bike lanes and sharrows.
✔ Avoid distractions—stay off your phone while driving.

Decatur Loves to Move!

This Valentine’s Day, show some love for your health, your city, and your community by choosing to walk or bike. Whether you’re out for a stroll with someone special, riding to meet friends, or simply enjoying the fresh air, Decatur loves being active—and we hope you do too!

For more information about biking and walking initiatives in Decatur, visit our website.

Filed under Bike Decatur, City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Exercise, Walk Decatur Tagged with , , , , , ,

How to Stay Active for a Healthy Heart

February 3, 2025 by Leave a comment

A number of factors affect your heart health, with physical activity being one of the most important. Your heart is a muscle, and just like your biceps and quadriceps, it too benefits from a weekly workout. Because when your heart doesn’t get the care and attention it requires, problems can develop.

So how much exercise do you need to help your heart thrive? Not much!

The American Heart Association recommends that adults get around 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity. Some examples of moderate intensity workouts include fast-paced walking, water aerobics, dancing, gardening (it can make you happier, too), tennis (doubles), or biking. High-intensity aerobics, such as running, swimming laps, and hiking, are also beneficial, but make sure to consult with your physician before incorporating these exercises into your physical-activity routine.

Decatur Parks and Recreation offers fun, social ways to stay active while meeting your fitness goals. Check out these upcoming programs:

Wednesday Walks – Take a 2-3 mile walk with your neighbors around Decatur every Wednesday at 10 a.m. Meet outside the Decatur Recreation Center and enjoy the fresh air!

Water Aerobics – Stay active in the pool! Dynamo Swim Club offers water aerobics classes at the Oakhurst indoor pool.

REBEL Groove Dance Fitness – A full-body, interval-based workout that combines dance and cardio in a fun, no-rules atmosphere. Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. at Oakhurst Recreation Center.

Scott Park Garden Club – Gardening is great for your heart and mind! Join this organic community garden in Scott Park and enjoy greenspace therapy while staying active. Plots available for $75/year.

Beginner Tennis Clinics – Whether you’re new to the game or looking to refine your skills, this clinic covers forehands, backhands, serves, and more. Held Sundays at 12 p.m. at Glenlake Tennis Center.

Bikes & Brews – Enjoy a 6-mile, casual-paced bike ride around the city on the third Friday of each month at 6:30 p.m. Ride starts at Guild + Journeyman (115 Clairemont Ave). Helmets required.

Another important point to remember is that you don’t have to be “exercising” to stay active. Small adjustments to your day-to-day life, like sitting less or taking a few extra laps around the house, can contribute positively to your heart health. A great way to do this is to “habit stack,” or incorporate extra movement into your normal routine. Waiting for the coffee to brew? Walk up and down the stairs, do a quick set of squats, or get in a quick stretch.

This Monday, set a goal of getting in 30 minutes of physical activity, and try to keep it up for the rest of the week. If you don’t reach the 150-minute mark, don’t sweat it. You can always refresh your intensions the following Monday. Your heart will thank you.

Filed under Adult Sports, Aquatics, Bike Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Decatur Recreation Center, Exercise, Healthy Monday, Monday Campaigns, Oakhurst Recreation Center, Walk Decatur Tagged with , , ,

Biking Safety Tips for Youth: Riding Smart Starts Early!

December 23, 2024 by Leave a comment

Biking is an exciting way for kids and teens to stay active, explore their neighborhoods, and have fun with friends. But riding safely is just as important as knowing how to pedal. Check out these top tips to help youth ride smart and stay safe!

Gear Up for Safety

  • Helmet First! A helmet isn’t just cool—it’s essential. Make sure it fits snugly and is worn level on the head.
  • Bright Clothing Rocks. Neon, bright colors, or reflective gear helps others see you, especially during dawn or dusk.

Know the Rules of the Road

  • Ride in the Right Direction. Always bike with the flow of traffic, not against it.
  • Follow Traffic Signs and Signals. Just like cars, bikes need to obey stop signs, red lights, and other road signals.
  • Use Hand Signals. Show drivers and others where you’re going with clear hand signals for turning or stopping.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

  • Keep Your Head Up! Watch for cars, pedestrians, potholes, and even animals.
  • No Distractions. Save the headphones and phone scrolling for after your ride.

Stay Visible

  • Use a white front light and a red rear light if riding when it’s dark or getting dark. Reflectors on bikes and backpacks are a great addition too!

Ride Where It’s Safe

  • Stick to bike lanes, quiet streets, or trails when possible.
  • For younger riders, sidewalks can be safer, but always be mindful of pedestrians.

Check Your Bike Before You Go

  • Tires. Are they pumped up and ready to roll?
  • Brakes. Make sure they stop smoothly.
  • Chain. It should be clean and securely in place.

Buddy Up

  • Riding with a friend or group is not only more fun but safer too. You’re more visible when biking with others.

Respect Others on the Road

  • Be courteous to drivers, pedestrians, and other cyclists. Sharing the road makes it safer for everyone.

Teaching youth these biking safety habits early helps them build confidence and independence. Whether biking to school, the park, or a friend’s house, a safe ride is always the best ride!

Let’s empower young riders to explore their world safely on two wheels. 🚴‍♂️✨

Filed under Bike Decatur, City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation Tagged with , , ,

Bike Safety Tips for a Safe Ride

December 19, 2024 by Leave a comment

Biking is not only a great way to stay active and reduce your carbon footprint, but it’s also an enjoyable way to explore your community. Whether you’re commuting, riding to school, or simply enjoying a leisurely ride, safety should always be your top priority.

Here are some essential tips to ensure a safe biking experience:

1. Wear a Helmet

A properly fitted helmet is your best defense against head injuries. It should fit snugly, sit level on your head, and cover your forehead without obstructing your vision. A helmet can make a significant difference in the event of an accident.

2. Be Visible

Make sure drivers, pedestrians, and other cyclists can see you. Wear bright or reflective clothing, and equip your bike with front and rear lights, especially if you’re riding in low-light conditions or at night. Being visible helps prevent accidents.

3. Follow the Rules of the Road

Bicycles are considered vehicles, and riders are required to obey traffic laws. Ride in the same direction as traffic, stop at red lights and stop signs, and use hand signals to communicate your turns. Staying predictable and adhering to road rules helps keep everyone safe.

4. Stay Alert

Always be aware of your surroundings. Watch out for cars, pedestrians, potholes, and other potential hazards. Avoid distractions like using your phone or listening to music through headphones while riding. Staying focused allows you to react quickly to any situation.

5. Check Your Bike Before You Ride

Before hitting the road, do a quick inspection of your bike. Check the brakes to ensure they’re working properly, examine the tires for any signs of wear or low pressure, and make sure the chain is clean and in good condition.

6. Ride Predictably

Avoid sudden swerves or stops that might confuse drivers or other cyclists. Signal your intentions clearly, and ride in a straight line whenever possible. Riding predictably helps others on the road anticipate your movements.

Safety is a Shared Responsibility

By following these tips, you’re doing your part to create a safer environment for all road users. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or just getting started, a little preparation and awareness can go a long way toward ensuring a safe and enjoyable ride.

Let’s work together to make our streets bike-friendly and safe for everyone. Happy riding!

For more bike safety tips or to learn about cycling programs in the City of Decatur, visit decaturga.com/biking

Filed under City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Exercise Tagged with , ,

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