TV-Turnoff Network and the American Hiking Society today urged Americans to turn off their television sets and take a hike. American Hiking Society strongly supports National TV Turnoff Week, said Sally Grimes, Director of Communications at American Hiking. Communities are rich with trails that provide families with a healthy and exciting alternative to television.
People are often surprised to learn about trails that are within a brief walk from their front door.
We strongly encourage participants in National TV-Turnoff Week to put aside time for at least one hike during the week. Indeed, experts link our national addiction to TV, demonstrated by the average 3 hours and 46 minutes that American adults spend watching TV each day, to teen violence, health problems, and poor school achievement. Turning off the television and hitting the trail for at least part of those nearly 30 hours per week is easier than many might think. Second, grab some sturdy shoes and hit the trail. Hiking doesn't have to be strapping on a pack, heading to the backcountry and avoiding bears.