A bit blustery at times, LA is gearing up for another beautiful spring and summer. Gyms can be useful to shed that winter weight (especially if you're visiting for free), but it's much better—and cheaper—to get outside and enjoy the magic of outdoor fun. Since the weather's so awesome, you might as well take advantage of it and exercise in the sunshine. When you've acquired a great tan by the end of April, despite copious use of sunscreen of course, make sure to send inspirational photos of your toned, golden self to a friend still trapped in the cold.

Since this isn't New York (cough, cough), you don't have to be dealing crack to hang out in the park. Whether you want to run around a track, hit fly balls, play some pick-up or just stretch out on the grass, there's a park for you. Parks like Pan Pacific, right next door to The Grove, have basketball courts, baseball diamonds, and slides. When the mall gets overcrowded, why fight the masses? Take your Coffee Bean for a stroll. The City's Parks and Rec Department maintains a comprehensive list, so you can easily find one with your favorites features close by. Throw on some sneakers and hit the grass.

The beach may be an over obvious recommendation, but it's easy to forget about one of LA's main draws. It doesn't have to be Muscle Beach if you want to get sweaty. Leave Venice for the tourists. From Nicholas Canyon to Point Fermin there are miles and miles of boardwalk, bike paths, public exercise equipment and sand. The Department of Beaches and Harbors can tell you all about each one (permits, updates, etc.). RFB recommends checking out the pollution levels before diving into the water. The waves are great, but after rains or oil spills the water can be just a bit too toxic for fun. Random trivia: Turns out there are only a few traveling rings around the country, and the beach just south of Santa Monica has one of the most famous.

To really get your blood pumping, go hiking. Runyon is great, but too many Affliction T-shirts and Juicy sweatsuits may have you looking around for other options. Check out Localhikes for a list of (you guessed it!) local hikes. If you want to bring a furry friend, make sure to keep it on leash. Also, bring baggies. Courtesy is cool.

If you're ready to brave your bathing suit, many of the pools we told you about last time are outdoors and will be opening up soon. Check out the City's official Aquatics site for updates on openings. These pools are cheap, fun, and full of refreshingly chlorinated H2O.

Whatever you're doing, remember to hydrate. Take it from those who know, dehydration is not pretty. Bring a water bottle or buy one on the way. It can be uncomfortable or downright dangerous to forget to drink. And no, vodka isn't what we mean. Bottoms up anyway!

(If you've got a favorite spot, add it to the list.)