Men’s health awareness month: a local boost for body and mind
June is Men’s Health Awareness Month. With longer days and warm weather, this time of year offers an opportunity to reinforce the importance of prevention and encourage healthy habits. According to the CDC, Men experience higher rates of chronic conditions such as hypertension, heart disease, and diabetes. However, they are significantly less likely than women to participate in routine preventive care, including regular checkups and screenings. This month highlights the importance of early action, regular movement, and consistent support for well-being.
In Birmingham, Railroad Park is helping make healthy choices more accessible. Through a partnership with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama, the park hosts free weekly exercise classes from April through October. Options include Boxing Cardio, Hip-Hop Cardio, Zumba, Yoga, Senior Fit, and Line Dancing. These outdoor classes promote cardiovascular health, strength, flexibility, and routine physical activity.
Decades of research confirm the benefits of regular movement in reducing the risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, cancer, dementia, osteoporosis, depression, and hypertension. Programs like these, which offer inclusive, community‑based wellness options with classes suited for all ages and fitness levels, demonstrate how accessible local initiatives can support sustained, health‑promoting activity.
Railroad Park may also serve as a valuable setting for health-related education and community engagement. Whether you are exploring physical activity in your work or simply looking to unwind, the park is a reminder that consistency is key to long-term wellness.
Phillip – stock.adobe.com
Class Schedule
Evening classes (6 p.m. Monday through Friday): Boxing Cardio, Hip-Hop Cardio, Zumba, Yoga, Line Dancing
Morning Senior Fit: 8 a.m. Tuesday and Friday
Weekend: Senior Fit at 10 a.m., Pilates at 11 a.m. every Saturday
This June, consider how healthy habits such as regular movement, social connection, and community participation can support the well-being of the men in our lives and those working to advance public health.
Learn more: railroadpark.org/programs/exercise-classes
