Few people know the true origin of the name Goleta.

Many years ago our founding Goletan grandparents gathered together and worked very hard to attract new settlers to the area. You may be familiar with the many ways that our elders persuaded wayward families who were wandering west in their wagons: world-famous lemon festivals, free miniature train rides and the Bacara.

Initial marketing attempts only managed to attract groves of monarch butterflies. One day, after swimming in the slough, an elder known as "Old Town" came up with a clever marketing slogan to attract young, physically active families to the area. "G.O.L.E.T.A.," which stood for Great Opportunities to Leisurely Exercise in This Area, was responsible for bringing thousands of health-conscious pioneers from around the world. Soon thereafter, Good Earth and Gold’s Gym were established and the area was renamed Goleta.

In celebration of this fictional founding fable, I thought we would rediscover the many ways in which our forefathers and -mothers kept physically active and healthy while living in paradise.

Don’t be afraid to bluff

If you haven’t taken a walk along the Ellwood Bluffs lately, you’ve been missing out. This pristine stretch of coastline will remind you why you pay so much to live here. Grab your kids and feel like you’ve treated your family to an exclusive vacation. Walk up on the bluffs or head down to the beach. Either way you’ll give your legs some exercise and your mind a mental breather.

Life’s a beach

Despite the recent sand erosion, Goleta Beach is still a great family destination. Enjoy the sand, the surf and the very kid-friendly playground. If it’s not a "beach day," consider heading out on foot to the bluffs at UCSB. You’ll have so much fun that you’ll hardly realize that you’re exercising.

Land O’ Lake

Not to be confused with the land of a thousand lakes, some call Goleta the land of one lake: Lake Los Carneros. If you are looking for a great place to run, walk or just feed the ducks, consider this destination.

Be a trail blazer

The ‘bike path’ is for more than just biking. The Obern Trail is a beautifully paved path that connects Goleta Beach to More Mesa, with a walkway alongside it. Along the way, you’ll enjoy scenic mountain views, local farmland and exotic birds. You and your family will enjoy sharing the coastline with recreational bikers, cross-country runners, commuting UCSB professors, stroller-pushing moms and running pediatricians.

Go take a hike!

If you prefer to be off the beaten path, then go take a hike. At the end of Tucker’s Grove you will find a family-friendly hiking trail for you, your kids and your jog stroller. While you are there, enjoy the open fields, volleyball courts and the playground equipment.

Goletans have always had it good. We often forget how many great outdoor attractions we have in our own backyard. Visiting our picturesque coastline, local parks and bike paths are only a few ways that we can enjoy our local treasures and get some much-needed exercise at the same time. Those who originally settled G.O.L.E.T.A. had it right: Get Over your Laziness and Enjoy Those Attractions.