Residents Reconnect with Nature

Did you know Los Angeles County has over 2,000 park and recreation areas?

Find a park near you using your ZIP code

What are Park Prescriptions?

Park Prescriptions (Park Rx) are referrals from primary care providers that connect patients to free, outdoor exercise programs in Los Angeles County parks. These community-based classes offer a fun, safe way to be active and improve overall health.

Through Park Rx Los Angeles County (Park Rx LAC), patients can join weekly group exercise classes designed to support both physical and mental wellbeing. Classes welcome all fitness levels, from beginners to regular exercisers. They are led by kinesiology students, who study how movement affects health, and are supervised by experienced college instructors to ensure sessions are safe, effective, and supportive.

Park Rx LAC follows the national Park Rx model, which promotes using parks and nature to boost health. By meeting in the beautiful parks of Los Angeles County, participants enjoy the benefits of being outdoors, moving their bodies, and working toward better health together. Spending time in nature and connecting with others helps people feel stronger, happier, and more supported.

What do the group exercises classes look like?

Park Rx Los Angeles County uses the same successful fitness model as the 3 WINS Fitness Program from California State University, Northridge. Check out the videos below to see what 3 WINS sessions look like and get a sense of what you can expect at Park Rx LAC group fitness classes.

If the video does not load, watch it on YouTube.

Si el video no se carga, puede verlo en YouTube.

Want more workouts?

Explore additional 3 WINS Fitness workout videos to help you stay active and continue your fitness journey.

Click here to watch more videos: 3 WINS Fitness - YouTube.

Benefits for Community Members

Be A Part of Our Community:

You don’t have to do this alone! Join others who are also working to improve their health and stay active. In our welcoming, judgment-free environment, you can learn safe new ways to move your body, challenge yourself, and grow stronger. You’ll build confidence, make connections, and feel supported every step of the way.

Improve your Physical Health:

The Park Rx LAC program gives you the guidance and support you need to help you control or lower your risk of developing serious chronic diseases. Our park-based exercise classes can help you reach your unique health goals, whether that includes improving blood pressure, controlling diabetes, reducing risk of heart disease, losing weight, or improving other aspects of your health.

Improve your Mental Wellbeing:

Exercise and spending time in nature are two of the most powerful ways to boost your mood and improve your mental wellbeing, and the Park Rx LAC program gives you both! Joining group exercise classes in peaceful, green park spaces and hearing the calming sounds of nature are enjoyable, healthy ways to care for your heart and mind while also.

Interested in Joining the Park Rx LAC program?
Reach out to your primary care provider or nurse for more information on how to join!

Stay Connected with our Monthly Park Rx LAC Newsletter!

Learn more about the Park Rx LAC program
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Hear powerful testimonials from participants of the program
Learn practical information and tips on how to be more physically active in your day-to-day life

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Understand & Avoid the Impacts of Physical Inactivity on Health

In Los Angeles County, many adults are not getting the recommended amount physical activity. Not being active can lead to serious health problems, including a higher risk of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes, some cancers, and even early death.

The good news is that adding more movement into your daily routine can make a big difference. Regular exercise can improve your health, lower your risk of chronic diseases, and help you feel better overall.

Any Movement is Good Movement!
Even small steps like taking the stairs instead of the elevator or doing some chair exercises while watching television can help you build a more active lifestyle.

The Park Rx LAC program is a great way to start. You’ll learn new exercises, build healthy habits, and gain confidence in moving your body. The skills you learn can stay with you long after the program ends.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear to exercise classes?
Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move easily, along with supportive exercise shoes. A hat can help protect you from the sun.

What should I bring to exercise classes?
Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated and sunscreen for sun protection. You may also want to bring a small towel. You do not need to bring your own exercise equipment—everything you need will be provided.

What if I don’t exercise very often? Can I still join the program?
Absolutely! This program welcomes all experience levels, including people who are new to exercise. Instructors can offer easier or harder versions of each movement so you can participate safely and comfortably. The goal is to help you learn at your own pace in a supportive, nonjudgmental environment.

What if I have a past injury or certain movements I cannot do?
As long as your health care provider has cleared you for physical activity, you are welcome to join. Let the instructor know before class about any injuries or limitations so they can suggest safe modifications. Listen to your body, go at your own pace, and take breaks whenever needed.

Can I bring my children, family members, or friends to classes?
All adults are welcome. No childcare is provided at this time.

How can I join the program?
There are two ways to join. Ask your primary care provider or nurse for a referral to the Park Rx Los Angeles County program, or just show up at the Park Rx location.

Is there a place where I can keep my personal belongings?
There is no designated storage area available for personal belongings during the program. Participants are encouraged to bring only necessary items and keep their personal belongings with them at all times.

Is transportation provided?
Unfortunately, transportation services are not available for participants. Participants are responsible for arranging their own transportation to and from the program location.

Testimonials

Contact Us

Join the movement to make parks a pathway to health and learning across Los Angeles County.

By partnering with Park Rx LAC, your college or university will help shape a new generation of wellness-minded leaders, while improving the health and connection of communities throughout the region.

Los Angeles County Department of Public Health
Cardiovascular and School Health
Park Rx Los Angeles County Program Manager
Rebecca Reeves, PT, MPT
Email: rreeves@ph.lacounty.gov

Funding

This pilot project is funded through a two-year grant from the Los Angeles County Quality and Productivity Commission, which supports initiatives that improve County services.