As the snow begins to melt and the temperatures begin to rise it is becoming the best time to be outside enjoying the nice weather. Being active, although very important, can get quite hard to maintain in the winter when even just taking a step outside seems painful. It can become easy to make excuses and give up on maintaining an active lifestyle. Now that it is finally nice out, it's the perfect time to take advantage of the sunshine and get motivated. Remaining active in our daily life not only increases serotonin levels and promotes mental health but also increases energy and cardiovascular health as well. Here are some ways to get active while also taking advantage of the beautiful weather.

1. Go for a hike easy or more advanced.

2. If a hike seems too generous...go for a walk even simply walking can double your heart rate. Take your dog along if you have one, they will thank you.

3. Spend a day at the beach and dedicate yourself to walking up and down the shore at least one time (instead of laying out and tanning....you will still get a tan don't worry).

4. Find a local place to run with pretty scenery to take your mind off the running and into the beautiful view.

5. Go out to lunch but walk there.

6. Count your steps

(the iPhone app does this automatically) and try to reach at least 10,000 per day, this is the Recommended Daily Amount according to dietary standards. Make it a game and challenge a friend or family member on total number of steps.

7. Spend a day in the nearest city without ordering any cabs.

8. Go for a bike ride.

9. Go for a swim, time yourself to swim for at least 30 minutes.

10. Do your weight training in the gym but attempt to do your cardio outside that way you aren't stuck inside the gym on a beautiful day.