The weather's getting cooler, football season is in full swing, festivals are getting underway, and all that great holiday food is on the horizon. That means fall is here, and it's the season that gives most people the urge to splurge on food and stay inside while letting their summer shape sizzle out on the couch. But here's a different perspective: This is the perfect time to continue being active and fit, so here are some fall fitness tips to help keep you motivated and moving.
The cool weather is ideal for outdoor activities, but maybe you prefer indoor exercise. If you don't have a membership to a gym, now is the perfect time to get one. Many gyms are relatively empty from the get-in-shape-for-summer crowd now, so there should be less of a crowd to deal with. A gym is ultra-convenient if it works for you based on location and schedule since it has everything in one spot and you're protected from the elements, but it's far from necessary.
If you prefer to avoid the gym, or if you just want to be able to enjoy some outdoor fitness and fresh fall air, the weather at this time of year can be just about perfect for working out in the wild. The cooler temperatures of fall are ideal for numerous outdoor activities, whether you plan to go it alone or with friends and family:
Outdoor Fall Fitness Activities- Walking/jogging/running
- Hiking
- Biking
- Kayaking/canoeing
- HIIT workouts
Not only is the weather just about perfect at this time of year, but you also get cool, fresh air and the potential beauty of fall foliage depending on where you live.
Of course, the weather can also be a bit unpredictable, so be sure to dress appropriately. Dress in layers and consider investing in some moisture-wicking clothing. You might feel cold as you get out there, but you'll find that you get warm quickly if you're active enough, and once you start to sweat, you'll want that moisture to evaporate quickly.
If you don't like solo fitness endeavors, or if you simply want to help family or friends get healthy with you, remember you don't have to do it alone. Most people find the cool, fall weather appealing, so if you know someone who's bound to indulge a bit too much on holiday treats, convince them that getting active now will help curb their cravings-or at least control the higher-calorie effects.
Just about all outdoor activities are better with at least one partner if not a small group, so find someone to get fit with, but don't let the lack of an exercise partner turn you off. Get out there and enjoy the fall weather while you battle the bulge before it happens. Plus, your fall fitness efforts will give you a huge head start for when the warmer weather of spring starts to make its first appearance."
