The first stop on the Get Up! Get Out! Get Active! Initiative was Petoskey, Michigan. The stop coincided with the end of the Labor Day weekend, so there were plenty of outdoor activities. The Get Up! Get Out! Get Active! Initiative is mean to highlight every day activities that can keep you in shape and boost your overall health. During the initiative, we won't be focusing on gym equipment, classes at a gym, or personal trainers, and instead we'll focus on activities that you can do with little or no equipment. Most of these activities you'll be able to do close to home, so you won't even have to belong to a gym or special club.

While in Petoskey Michigan there were hundreds of activities to choose from. Personally, I chose Kayaking as an activity that was both fun and took advantage of great weather. Kayaking was something that really worked my upper body, particular my chest and arms. The best part was that when I got too hot (thanks to endless sunshine and no clouds), I could simply jump in the water and cool off.

Luckily, I was able to borrow this kayak from some friends, but if you don't have access to a kayak, you can often rent one at your local marina or the local beach. Resort areas are known for kayaks and other type of water equipment, and in a worst case scenario you could pick one up at a sporting goods store.

After only about an hour on the water I was pretty worn out, but it was great exercise. I managed to get in some sun, enjoy the great water, and padding a couple of miles.