Springtime in the City

It seems that almost overnight campus has turned into a landscape out of a beautiful spring portrait. Everywhere we look trees are in full bloom which is really unusual for March! We also know that spring has sprung from the suffocating stench of the white trees that outline the campus. That is just one downfall of spring on campus, but it worlds better than the blustery wind that we endure all winter long. It is time to start the spring thaw and get back in action and shed the hibernation weight we put on this winter.

The winter months seem to stifle people’s exercise creativity, spending day in and day out on the treadmill burning every last calorie. The great thing about springtime is the ability to take your workout to the great outdoors. Throughout the city of Pittsburgh there are trails that allow for a nice run, walk, or bike ride. Bring a buddy and take advantage of the great and sprawling trails that the city has to offer.   An outdoor workout allows you to enjoy the cool breeze and warm sun while simultaneously getting swimsuit ready which is a pretty good deal!

Don’t have a bike? Have no fear; check out Golden Triangle Bike Rental for prices on a bike rental.

Intramurals- although it seems that the intramural season is in full swing, it is never too late to get a group of friends together and form an impromptu pick-up game. Whether it is soccer or football on Rooney field or deck hockey or basketball on the lone court on campus, it doesn’t matter because every little bit of movement is working in your favor.  As little as 30 minutes spent being active works wonders on your health.

Going out this weekend? Forget Yellow Cab and give your wallet a rest and rely your legs to take you to that party. Luckily for on-campus students, we are a stone’s throw away from the college night life. During the cool months of the fall and frigid months of the winter, we rely on cabs whether they are Classy or Yellow to take us to our destinations. Now with the warm temperatures we don’t have to dig into our pockets to pay that cab driver. Instead we can rely on our own legs to transport us to the party. Not too fond of walking? It might help to think this way: you will be burning some calories that you are likely to consume later on in the evening.

Here is a little tip for girls: if you plan to walk, do not wear stilettos! These ankle breakers and the South Side steps are like Liberals and Conservatives; they don’t mix.

With spring all around us, it is easy to get out and get moving. Sometimes it takes a little innovation and sometimes it is as easy as putting on your running shoes and hitting the pavement. Either way, take your winter activities outdoors and soak up the sun and this beautiful weather!