5 Things You Need to Know Today: January 7

1.  If you are looking for a place to get some exercise in the new year that doesn't cost any money, there is no better place to walk and bird watch than the , located north of Oakesdale Ave. NW and SW 7th St. It is home to herons and eagles and — if you are lucky enough to spot it — other wildlife. While it is most popular when the herons are nesting, it's a great walk year round. Wear shoes that you don't mind getting dirty, as it can be a little muddy.

2.  If birds aren't your thing, but you and Fido have both put on a few extra holiday pounds, try walking together at Renton's relatively new off-leash .  It is 3.5 acres, with a small area for "shy or small" dogs. The dog park is associated with Renton's Unleashed Furry Friends, a local nonprofit.

3.   is another option for you. They have gentle yoga, pilates classes, family swim and a lap pool. They are also well known for their warm therapy pool if you know someone who has arthritis, or a need to swim in especially warm water. Pay attention to their enrollment fees. They change at different times of the year. Right now, the enrollment fee is $75 with monthly dues of $46.50 plus tax, and slightly less if you are a member of Golden Care.

4.  Is this the year to sharpen your tennis game? Or, perhaps learn to play for the first time? Aces Tennis, located at 401 Olympia Ave. NE in Renton, provides indoor private and group lessons for ages 5 to adult. For more information call 425-430-6700.

5.  Has it been a while since you walked — really walked — the entire Cedar River trail? If you need to shed those holiday pounds take in the full 4.5-mile trail, and all of the spectacular scenery this Renton gem holds. There are places to stop and rest along the way, if you are a little bit out of shape, and you can't make the entire 4.5 miles your first time out.