Charleston, it's time to stay active during the summer months! There are many opportunities to get involved with the community and give back while getting in shape and being active. The Charleston area has many different events and races for you to participate in.

The 7th Annual Green and Lean 5K Run/Walk is hosted by The City of Charleston and Keep Charleston Beautiful. This event will take place on June 2, 2012 at 8 a.m. in Brittlebank Park. There are prizes for the first finishers, as well as prizes for the first stroller and leashed dog finishers. The event will also have a Tot Trot which is a 50 yard run for children ages two through five. The Green and Lean 5K offers something for the whole family. Come on out and support the Keep Charleston Beautiful foundation!

The Hibben Health and Wellness and Family Ministries in Mount Pleasant will be hosting the Hibben Family 5K Fun Run/Walk on June 2 at 8 a.m. Located at Palmetto Islands County Park, this even is sure to be a great family outing! There is a $5 registration fee, and children and strollers are welcome.

Also on June 2, there is a Bikinis and Boardshorts 5K in Mount Pleasant, located on Laural Hill Plantation Trails. The race beings at 10 a.m., and participants are asked to dress in beach attire for the race. There will also be a celebration at the end complete with food, drinks, music and an inflatable water slide. An award will also go to the best dressed, so get creative!

On June 14, 21 and 28, the Bulldog Breakaway 5K Twilight Series will take place at 6:30 p.m. on various dates throughout the summer. This race takes you on a run through The Citadel's campus, allowing you to sight see while participating in the event. The race dates are May 17, June 14, June 21, June 28, and July 12.

The Floppin' Flounder 5K will take place on June 16. This race is hosted by the Charleston Running Club and is presented by Triangle Char & Bar. With a USATF certified course, walkers and strollers are welcome among the racers. The race will begin at 8 a.m. so bring the whole family. Be sure to celebrate the accomplishment of finishing the race at the Fish Fry Shack on Sullivan's Island.

For those seeking another challenge, the Charleston Spirit Triathlon will be taking place on June 17, July 8, July 29 and August 12. Entering its 19th year, participants will experience a 600 yard lake swim, a 12 mile bike ride and finish off the triathlon with a 5K run. Starting at 7:15 a.m., this triathlon is sure to jump start your day!

For more information about the author, Charleston.com, please visit my Google+ page.