Lexington, KY - Alright, summer is here. As you dust off and put on your shorts, T-shirts and even your bathing suit, you may see some of that toll our long, cold winter took on your body. If you are a few shades lighter and a few pounds heavier than you would like to be don't worry, I've got just the ticket for you to have fun and get in shape this summer.
Ideally, we would all like to be "beach ready" when summer rolls around. Unfortunately, this usually is not the case. Our cold, gray winters are not particularly motivating and tend to keep us sedentary.
Instead of lamenting the fact that you are not in perfect shape for the summer, use the summer to get in great shape and have fun while you are doing it.
Considering that Kentucky has one of the highest obesity rates in the country, I am amazed at all of the opportunities our region offers to the public to be active -
and many of these are free. If you are unaware of all that is out there for you to get you off the couch and shedding those winter pounds in a fun and exciting way, let me tell you about just a few:
The Legacy Trail is a 12-mile trail that runs from the east end of downtown to the Kentucky Horse Park. 8.5 miles of this trail are off the street and fully paved; just for non-motorized traffic. Individuals as well as families can use the trail as an active adventure; go for a bike ride, a walk or a run. It has beautiful scenery and is a good way for you to learn more about your town - the Horse Park in particular.
Lexington Parks and Recreation department has an abundance of programs and activities for all ages and abilities. If you know you want to be active this summer, but don't know what to do or where to do it, search this website. Your tax dollars pay for many fun and healthy activities that you can take part in. Lexington Parks and Recreation also puts on the Bluegrass 10,000 race on the Fourth of July.
Second Sunday events started last year and have been a great success all over the state. Although these are only once-a-month activities, they can serve as a goal to get in shape for and a place to meet other people and families interested in fitness and healthy activities.
The Bluegrass State Games have been around for many years and are a wonderful way to get you and your kids active and competitive this summer. Whether you have a sport that you already compete in or are just interested in having a little fun, you should check out the games and see what's in it for you. Events go on all summer.
The local race calendar from John's Run/Walk Shop is a great resource if you are interested in walking or running races of any distance. During the summer months you can usually find an event every weekend that is within driving distance of Lexington. You do not have to be a serious athlete to participate in these events and every race has a good percentage of walkers.
Special children's activities in Lexington are published on the Livestrong website (www.livestrong.com). The site features a wide range of events that are happening this summer that you may not know about. If you are worried that your kids don't have enough to do this summer, check out this website.
Take advantage of what your city has to offer and how it is trying to help you be as fit and healthy as you can. Do your part and participate.