Winter is gone and spring weather is erasing couch potato syndrome.

Most NIU students exercise more when the weather allows for many types of fitness activities.

Walking and working out at the Office of Campus Recreation are popular ways of keeping in shape.

NIU junior Barb Urbanowicz said she exercises more in warmer weather. She goes to the OCR three to five times per week to run two miles, bicycle and use the weight machines.

Urbanowicz said she works out “to lose weight, tone my muscles and to be able to walk up a few flights of stairs without dying.”

Junior Kristin Hodek said she walks to her classes instead of taking the bus during warmer weather.

Hodek also will play softball for her sorority, Sigma Sigma Sigma, at Springfest.

NIU senior Wally Adamczyk said, “If the weather is nice and I have a few extra bucks, I’ll play golf.”

However, he said, “I try to exercise as much as I can regardless of the weather.” Adamczyk said he has been playing basketball at OCR almost everyday.

NIU sophomore Matt Milani said he tends to get out-of-shape in the winter. To exercise, he jogs and uses weights. “I don’t feel as good if I don’t exercise,” he said.

Although exercise is important to Milani, he said he has not been working out lately because his friends are “too lazy” to go with him.

Students find time during nice weather for picnics, parks and relaxation.

“I’m outside more, awake more and in a better mood,” said NIU junior Linda Beatty.

“To relax, I listen to music, talk on the phone, have sex, sleep and read,” she said.

“Relaxation comes after basketball,” Adamczyk said. “I’ll play until I’m about to drop, then go home and shower and relax with my basketball high.”

Tanning spas are seen as a source of relaxation for some students.

Urbanowicz said she goes to Sun Rays twice a week and pays for it through a job at home.

“It’s cheaper to get the package deals,” she said.

Hodek said, “I went to tanning spas before Daytona, but now I have no money to keep going.”

She said spas are good because “people look better tan than white.”

But some students think such spas are unnecessary. “Pale is in,” Beatty said.

“It’s more relaxing to lay out in the sun,” Milani said.

Time is nearing when skin is revealed at beaches and through skimpy summer clothing. Are you prepared?