Recreation Research
For decades, we have championed the power of recreation and physical activity to transform the health and wellbeing of individuals and communities.
Factor in the economic value of recreation and sports tourism on cities and towns, and you can see why this mission is crucial.
We invite you to browse some of the research we're reading about the subject. We hope you learn something new!
The Problem
The residents of Cochise County are suffering from chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and cancer, at alarming rates. According to the most recent Cochise County Health Assessment, these chronic diseases are among the most common, costly and preventable of all health problems. Nationwide, an epidemic of loneliness was exacerbated by the COVID-19 global pandemic, and researchers are only just now understanding more about the relationship between mental and physical health.
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The Solutions
Even moderate physical activity and collective recreation can have tremendous effects on an individual's physical and mental health.
Activity & Chronic Disease Symptoms
According to Mayo Clinic and the World Health Organization, exercise can help people with chronic diseases cope with symptoms and improve their overall health.
According to this study, time spent outdoors in childhood is associated with reduced risk of myopia as an adult.
Using fMRI brain scans, a study published in Nature Mental Health suggests that just one hour of physical activity can counteract the negative mood effects of being alone.
"'Third spaces' are a key to fighting the loneliness crisis."
Recreational Therapy, or Therapeutic Recreation not only plays a "crucial role" in physical rehabilitation, it can improve self-esteem, boost social connections, and even decrease symptoms of depression.
"If we had a medicine that delivered as many benefits as parks, we would all be taking it. "
"When people have just and fair access, our health and social wellbeing improve, and our communities can protect and better recover from environmental, social and economic challenges."
Economic Vitality
Tourism, especially recreation and sports tourism, can play a significant role in boosting everyone's bottom line here in Cochise County.
Arizona Department of Tourism reports that tourism spending helps reduce the tax burden on residents, especially in rural areas.
In 2013, BVI commissioned a report on the economic impact of its legacy event on Bisbee. Results showcase that nearly all facets of the Bisbee economy are positively affected.