As school comes to an end and with spring sports over, the question on everyone’s mind is how to keep a healthy, fit body throughout the long summer.

Fortunately, there are many different ways students can continuously keep fit and healthy in the summer. As the sun begins to shine a little stronger, you can spend a little more time in the sun to not only get some vitamin D, but also get some cardio by going on a run or walk. If you are not really into jogging in your neighborhood, why not try trail running or hikes in the Columbia Gorge? Running on trails is better on your joints than running on pavement, plus the scenery is much better. Another great way to stay in shape as the days get hotter is to swim. Swimming is not only a great way to get your daily dose of cardio but also is a great way to cool down. Here’s a list of things to consider while trying to get in your daily workout:

1. To keep motivated while working out, listen to energizing music or choreograph a workout to your favorite song
2. Start slow! If you haven’t run in a while you can start with a light jog, and then build up depending on how your body feels. Don’t push yourself so hard to where you can’t workout the next day.
3. Take recovery days! When you do a hard workout one day, the next day do a light jog or walk. Take time to let your body recover after an intense workout.
4. Don’t just do cardio. Incorporate weight lifting and core/other body strengthening in your workout.
5. Work out with friends! It’s great competition and you can motivate each other.
6. Switch things up so you don’t get bored working out. One day try cardio, the next day try swimming, etc.

It is also a great idea to consider getting a gym memberships, even though it is a little pricey. The idea of spending money is a great motivator to use the gym. Another bonus is that the gym is almost always air conditioned so you can stay cool as the sun begins to strengthen its rays.

Another important factor that contributes to the well being of your body is your diet. As summer comes along there are many food temptations that arise such as ice cream, popsicles, and other cold items. These might come into play in an attempt to keep your body cool. However, healthy fruit bowls and homemade low sugar popsicles instead are a great option in keeping your diet healthy. Here are some tips about how to keep your diet strong while enjoying some fruity treats this summer:

1. Eat fruit! Make a fruit salad. It is super refreshing — just try to switch things up so you don’t get bored of your food.
2. Try making homemade popsicles — they are delicious! Just get some popsicle makers and freeze some flavored yogurt or freeze some sort of fruit juice into them and you have a homemade treat.
3. Try eating at cool new healthy places around Portland like Kure and Harlow, just to name a few. These restaurant are vegan but very delicious and healthy!
4. Smoothies are a great way to cool down during the hot months — mix in different fruits and vegetables to your liking.
5. Drink plenty of water — this is an obvious one, but it’s a great way to cool down and also a great way to keep hydrated.
6. Know what you eat but don’t let it run your life. It all comes down to balance.

Most importantly, have fun during summer! Enjoy the three months of freedom relaxing, but try to incorporate these healthy tips so that you can feel better inside and out.

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Do you have any other suggestions? Let us know in the comments below!