First of all, welcome back to VP's news! For many of us girls and boys it is none other than summertime. While some of us may have a schedule along the lines of tanning, partying and making memories, there are some of us who don't have a schedule at all. If you're anything like me and you will most likely spend 89% of your summer days indoors, hanging out with social media and a bag of chips, this article is all for you. Working out and staying healthy doesn't have to be all about mile runs and treadmills. Here are a few tips and tricks that I personally use to turn a workout into something fun and rewarding...

• Outdoor activities w/ family - Doing something as simple as getting outside with your friends and riding a bike can be a lot of fun. Don't focus on the working out aspect, but instead, focus on enjoying yourself. You're never too old to try new things. Activities like Skateboarding, riding a scooter, and even gardening will have a positive effect on the way you feel on a daily basis.

• Trying new recipes - Just because you might not workout or exercise, it doesn't mean eating healthy can't make a change in your overall appearance and health. There is nothing better than getting in the kitchen and turning simple food items into a delicious & nutritious snack (Such as the smoothie in the box below..)

• Setting goals and rewards - Example: Complete exercise 3/7 days of the week. Reward; Movie and spa day. Sometimes we all need a little motivation. Whether that comes from someone who inspires you, or really wanting to see a change in your life. Purchasing a calendar and planning out a workout schedule can be quite fun. Set some days on the calendar with different workout routines, and at the end of each week a little treat. Whether it may be spoiling yourself with a shopping spree to fit your new shape, or a day with all of your close friends. 

Don't wait for summertime to get in shape, or New Years to set resolutions. It's never to early or late to make a change in your life. I hope this article can help you get started!

Along with keeping your body in shape comes eating. This refreshing, frozen fruit smoothie will cool you down after a workout and also act as a treat for all of your effort. The total preparation time, as well as processing time, is simply 5 minutes. For this multi-fruit smoothie you will need:

• 1 frozen banana, peeled and sliced
• 2 cups frozen strawberries, raspberries or cherries
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 a cup of plain or vanilla yogurt
• 1/2 a cup of fresh orange juice
• 2 to 3 tablespoons of honey (adjust to your liking)

Simply put all of your ingredients into a blender and process until it's smooth. This recipe serves for two people, however you could double or even triple the recipe so it serves more!