Stay active for the summer

The summer is the perfect season to get outdoors and be active.

After dealing with a lot of inclement weather, the long-awaited warmer temperatures are here, and it’s time to embrace some fun in the sun. Nothing makes me happier in the summer than being involved with many outdoor activities.

Although I've never been a huge fan of exercise or health advocacy, I took action last summer to get active, and I am happy to share that I’ve reached a huge milestone by being in the gym for a full year. While staying active is one of the best ways to keep our bodies healthy, it enhances your general health and standard of living.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that maintaining an active lifestyle helps strengthen bones and muscles, lower the risk of disease, assist in controlling weight, enhance cognitive function and make daily tasks easier.

This summer, we should all take a different approach to being active Instead of spending your vacation sitting on the couch. Try setting aside the electronics and take a brief stroll outside, or do as I did and invest in some bicycles for the family. One thing that I've noticed about this community is that it’s always something to do.

If you're looking for some fun activities and sports to keep yourself active during the summer, the Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation Department is my recommended source. Many local places have partnered with Parks and Recs as a better tool to keep the community informed about all the sports and activities that they have lined out throughout the summer.

For the athletes, I know most of you have already started participating in summer workouts and games, so I encourage you to keep that going. Remember that all the work to get better happens in the offseason. Be sure to find a gym or field to perfect your skills because when the season gets going, it’s all about incorporating everything you trained for during the summer.

To the adults, I know it can get a bit frustrating and difficult to stay active while working, but it's always important to make time for yourself. Step outside before or after work for a quick 15-20 minute walk. Walking is a fun exercise that may enhance your mental and physical well-being, helping to increase your attention, creativity, productivity and overall health.

As for the younger kids, the summertime is about having fun, being adventurous and making new friends, so make the best of it.

Within my first summer of being in Bluff, I've noticed that the temperatures can really get hot in the next few months, so I encourage you all to stay hydrated and, most of all, get active and make the most of your summer.