Denver - Track

New athletic fields and a new track were finally completed at North High School in Denver, thanks to the passage of a $34 million bond (Moran, 2010).  Here we see an aspiring track runner, with high school students in the background practicing several different sports.  The athletic fields, tracks and tennis courts (not shown) were in serious disarray for many years, but thanks to new funding, kids can exercise at their own school.  By creating the new track and fields, kids will feel good about their school, and be more motivated to participate in team sports.  This motivation may in turn provide incentives for them to continue exercising in the future.  We can not underestimate the power of creating good spaces for kids to exercise, especially in the inner city.  Without appropriate places to exercise, we can not expect kids to be active, and reduce the obesity epidemic which threatens the health of our nation.

Moran, Dylan.  (2010, Aug 19).  NHS unveils its new athletic turf. North Denver Tribune. 

Denver - Football on the sidewalks

Denver is one of a few cities, whose city planners took the time to make sure many parks were available to its residents.  However, in a few areas, including Sunnyside/Highlands, parks are not as conveniently located.  Here we see a couple of kids utilizing the sidewalk outside their home to throw a football.  Shortly after throwing the football for a spell, the kids took off on their scooters around the block.   While many of the homes in Denver have backyards, children are often seen playing in the streets and sidewalks.   If we had more areas for children to play, the children may not be at risk of being hurt on the streets.  Parks and school play areas are important areas for families to take their children.  Again, if we want children to be more active, we need to make sure that there are safe, clean, and positive environments for them to play.

Denver - Skateboarding!

At the Denver Skate Park, kids of all ages enjoy getting out on their "boards."  The Denver Skate Park is free, and located near the light rail and bus stations in downtown Denver.  Skateboarding is a great for cardiovascular exercise, balance and coordination.  If only they would wear helmets!   Regardless, the skateparks are a great asset to the downtown Denver community for kids who might not fit the traditional "team sport" mold.  Because the Denver Skate Park is located near a mass transit station, many older kids could take the bus, or light rail to get to the skate park.  The skate parks are a great place for exercise, and it certainly encourages kids who might not otherwise exercise.