By Ellie Mullan, aged 17

IT’S almost April – the sun has finally shown its face after months of clouds and rain, and some brave girls have even braced bare legs whilst walking round school.

This means summer is coming, a season which goes hand in hand with bikinis, tanning and long days on the beach.

But I know many that feel a sense of dread when the temperature begins to rise, and that’s because of the overbearing need to get that ‘summer body’.

The new year’s resolution to get super fit has probably been long forgotten, and it can be difficult to get that motivation to put on those running trainers.

But hopefully, by showing you the benefits of regular exercise, that enthusiasm will return and you will be sprinting around town in no time!

First, it’s the obvious – exercise will make you look better.

Secondly, and more importantly, is that you will feel better.

Exercising causes the body to produce endorphins, chemicals that can help a person feel more peaceful and happy.

I can guarantee that going for a swim will make you feel far better than sitting on the sofa and watching television, even if it doesn’t feel like it at the time!

And exercise is proven to help with stress.

With exams looming, pressures at school and college can become overbearing for many.

Popping to the gym for an exercise class will be much better than being chained to your desk all night.

By allowing your anxiety to be released through exercise, you will have a clearer head when finishing that last hour of revision.

I know it can be difficult, but right now is the best time to start – get out there and get exercising!