People around the world share a passion for sports. From kids playing on sandlots to teens competing in school sports or professional athletes battling at the highest levels, sports interest people of all ages.
The physical benefits of playing any type of sport are considerable. These are some recreational outdoor sports that are not only enjoyable but provide a rounded workout and are available in Clarion.
Pickleball
Few recreational sports have seen a surge in popularity like pickleball. According to the 2023 Topline Participation Report from the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, participation in pickleball increased by 159 percent between 2019 and 2022. Combining elements of tennis and ping-pong, pickleball is a fun and effective workout. Research by Apple shows that playing pickleball helps participants reach moderate to vigorous heart rate zones. This enhances cardiac fitness. Additionally, a 2023 study in the journal Frontiers in Psychology found that pickleball players experienced significant improvements in happiness, life satisfaction, and personal well-being. For those in Clarion, the Aquatic (Tornado) Park at 618 5th Ave NE hosts a pickleball court, providing a convenient location for locals to enjoy the sport.
Golf
Golf courses may seem serene and leisurely, but a round of 18 holes can be a great workout. A 2016 study in the British Journal of Sports Medicine highlighted golf's benefits in preventing and treating chronic diseases like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Walking the course instead of using a cart offers excellent cardiovascular exercise. Clarmond Country Club, located at 1776 Page Ave. outside of Clarion, is a nine-hole golf course that hosts both a Jr League and adult players, making it a fantastic spot for golfers of all ages to enjoy the sport and stay active.
Basketball
Basketball is one of the most accessible recreational sports, with pickup games common in local parks during warm weather. It provides a comprehensive workout that includes cardiovascular exercise, coordination, balance, and weight-bearing activity. A 2018 study in the Journal of Sport and Health Science found that playing both half-court and full-court basketball increases lean body mass, bone mineral density, and oxygen uptake. This makes it an excellent choice for improving overall health. In Clarion, outdoor basketball courts are available at Gazebo Park, located in the 200 block of West Central Avenue, and at The Aquatic Park.
Additionally, Clarion-Goldfield-Dows schools own several athletic facilities that are primarily for school use, including an outdoor track, a soccer field, a football field, and a few baseball fields. These facilities support school sports programs and may not be readily available for public use.
