In the day-to-day of life, it’s very easy to get settled into a routine. And when you’re in a routine, it’s difficult to see the great opportunities all around you. As an apartment dweller, you might not have a backyard all to yourself, but the great community amenities available to you can more than make up for that – as long as you put them to good use. Here are some ways you can make the most out of your community amenities.

Get Some Social Time in at the Clubhouse

Obviously, the community clubhouse might not be the hottest spot in town. But just because the common room doesn’t have a five-star rating on Yelp (or any rating, for that matter), that doesn’t mean you should write it off completely. The clubhouse can be a great way to get out without all the trouble of “going out.” Located conveniently right near your home, you can invite some friends for a little social time, or perhaps even meet some of your friendly neighbors.

Relax at the Pool

Who doesn’t dream of having a pool in their backyard? With summer coming up, some poolside relaxation is a great way to unwind and soak up a few rays. Chillax with a book or take a nap, but just be sure to wear sunscreen! Of course, the pool isn’t just meant for sitting next to – swimming is a fun and healthy activity. Whether you want to splash around with the kids or you want to get a few laps in, a community pool is a great resource that shouldn’t go unnoticed.

Work Out at the Fitness Center

Everyday fitness is a key factor in staying healthy, and with a fitness center located right within your community, you have few excuses for going! If you’re having trouble getting into a fitness routine, try hard to make it only a few times a week, and gradually up the frequency of your visits. Alternatively, consider enlisting a similar-minded friend. Having a fitness buddy will keep you both accountable and will make the exercising go by much quicker. You might find that after a little time, hitting up the fitness center is something you look forward to.

Have a Picnic Outside

What better way to spend the summertime than being outdoors and having some fun? Make the most of your community’s green space with a picnic with friends and family. Or, if you fancy yourself a bit of a cook, why not hold a barbecue? There’s almost nothing that says “summer” more than enjoying some good food out in the sun. Just be sure to pick up after yourself and leave as little a trace as possible. Your community’s common areas should be able to be enjoyed by everyone, after all.

You have a lot of great resources hiding in plain sight, so make use of them! When making use of the amenities, there’s a good chance you might bump into a neighbor. Don’t be afraid to say hello! You never know might become a good friend.