The Workout: Make Your Memorial Day Active and Memorable

It's hard to believe that Memorial Day, the traditional kick-off to summer, is already here. Fortunately, there's no shortage of fun activities for the holiday weekend, options that are healthier than standing around eating too many hot dogs at the local block party. The weather might finally be nice enough to hit the tennis court, play a round of golf, get out for a walk, or participate in local events. Take a moment to make some plans!

For runners, the Soldier Field 10-Miler is on Saturday. The race starts at Soldier Field, follows the scenic Lakefront Path and ends in Soldier Field itself, with the finish right on the 50-yard line. If you've ever dreamed about racing down the field with all eyes in the stadium on you, your face plastered up on the JumboTron, this is your chance. Registration was almost full as of earlier this week, and there is no race day registration, so if you think you want to do it, surf on over and sign up.

For those who don't feel up to tackling 10 miles, there is a shorter option called the Hut Hut Hike, which offers various courses, ranging from one to three miles, around Soldier Field and the museum campus. Even non-runners can participate by cheering on the athletes. It's a great opportunity to take in the glory of Soldier Field without the game day frenzy: stadium seating is free and open to the public for the event.

On Sunday, cyclists from all over the area will be taking over the heart of Chicago for Bike the Drive. Once a year, Lake Shore Drive is closed to cars and open to cyclists of all abilities. The access point to Lake Shore is at Columbus and you can either head north for 15 miles or south for 15 miles – or both! What's more, participants don’t have to ride the entire length, so it's suitable for just about anyone. There are water stops with snacks and an after-party. It's a once-a-year chance to enjoy the scenery of Lake Shore Drive without all the traffic. And you may even be able to go faster than your car moves on Lake Shore during rush hour.

For those who would rather hit the water than the road, the Chicago River Canoe and Kayak Company is once again renting boats for use in the Skokie Lagoons. The facility is located just off Tower Road in the Forest Preserve. It's a great opportunity to see one of our local gems from a different perspective. You can call or email a day ahead to reserve a boat.

Although Lake Michigan is still a little chilly for swimming, brave souls can head to Glencoe Beach which opens for the season on Saturday (Winnetka beaches don't officially open until June). Glencoe Beach also offers kayak rentals.

So while you still may tend to overeat at the neighborhood barbecue this holiday weekend, at least you have some opportunities to make your weekend an active one. Repeat after me: fewer potato chips, more exercise.