An extended winter may have caused you to lack motivation to get in shape this year. But with all the fitness events and outdoor activities in Central Oregon, there's plenty of reason to hit the gym. Athletic Club of Bend personal trainer Tim Gibbons says this year there are even more events in the area than in the past: “New this summer are three new marathons. The first one is June 4^th, the Three Sisters Marathon, which will be held at Eagle Crest. September 3rs id Sunriver Marathon and then October 1^st is Bend Marathon, so there are three new events.” Also new this year was the Happy Girls Half Marathon and Happy Little Girls Mini Marathon.

The extended winter may have contributed to a slow start with exercise efforts; and even children often opt for video games indoors instead of real live sports and activities out doors.   But local fitness experts say it's definitely time to step outside. Personal trainer Nicole Pressprich with the Athletic Club of Bend shares this advice. “You know, childhood obesity is a growing epidemic right now, so it’s important to get them going so that if they exercise younger in life, it’ll carry on later in life, so they’ll maintain a healthy, active lifestyle in the future.” Pressprich also reminds us of the importance of hydrating when exercising, especially when you're outdoors and the weather is warmer. Nicole was a guest on KBND's “Your Town” Tuesday.