The Samford Crimson

Issue date: 5/6/09 Section: Expressions

Media Credit: Alex Cloke A screenshot from the Audience Choice film, "Scattered, Smothered, Covered, Chopped," featured Samford students senior Andrew Westover and sophomore Ben Wells. The film was shot on location at the Waffle House off Lorna Road. [Click to enlarge]

Summer is quickly approaching, and the hectic school year is coming to an end.

It is hard to believe that the fall of football seasons, the winter of unexpected snow storms in Alabama and the spring of Step Sing and Spring Fling is yet again coming to a close.

Summer is a great time to sit around, catch up on your favorite show marathons and enjoy a nice, big ice cream cone. With such lounging around, however, comes unexpected weight gain. To avoid any summer weight gain surprises, try these tips to ensure that you stay in shape while having fun this summer.

Summer months were made for snacking. Since most appetites naturally decrease in the hot summer months, small, refreshing snacks are perfect for the season. Take one of your favorite smoothies like a strawberry kiwi smoothie and add Splenda to reduce the calories and the sugar.

Try your hand at making your own Popsicles. There are thousands of recipes for smoothies, Popsicles, sorbet and other tasty treats available for free online. Frozen fruit is a great alternative if you want a cool, refreshing treat that requires no preparation.

The summer months are hot, particularly in the South, and it is important to stay hydrated. Water is the best beverage of choice when trying to stay cool and hydrated during the summer heat. If plain water gets boring, try adding lemon, lime or orange slices to a glass full of ice water.

There are also several varieties of low-calorie, low-sugar water mixes you can pour right into your water bottle to change things up. Make sure if you spend a good bit of time outdoors and are working up a sweat that you increase your water intake. Drinking more water also makes you feel fuller longer so you will avoid those between meal munchies.

If you are staying in the Birmingham area and have not yet visited Moss Rock Preserve, put it on your to do list for this summer. Get a group of friends together and be prepared for a fun day of hiking, climbing and even camping if you are feeling extra adventurous. The beautiful views and the challenging climbs will not only be relaxing but inspiring.

The best part about the experience is that it is free. Regardless of where you are heading this summer, make sure to check out your area's local running trails, hiking paths and other fun outdoor activities such as canoeing, biking and tennis.

As many of us embark on exciting internships, job opportunities, travel abroad experiences and summer school sessions, do not forget to take time to relax and find new ways to stay fit and active this season. Summer is a great chance to try new things whether it is a running trail or a new recipe. So enjoy, stay cool and for those of you not graduating, see you in the fall.

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