Healthy Tips for a Fun and Fit Fall

Fall is one of my favorite seasons, but the shorter days and cool temperatures can certainly make staying healthy more of a challenge. I worked hard all summer to get into shape, and I do not want to lose what I gained. Now, when I get home from work around 6pm it is almost too dark to run outside. Rather than let this get me discouraged, I came up with a few tips to inspire me to keep working out and have some fun while I’m at it!

- - – Use the beautiful weather as an excuse to get outside! The temperatures are much more comfortable now than they are during the summer and winter months. During the fall there are tons of fun activities that can be performed outside – and you can count these activities as exercise! Go on a scenic bike ride or a hike up a mounting and admire the foliage. Go apple picking and walk around the orchard, or even climb the trees to reach the fruit at the top of the tree (if that’s allowed.) You can also take this time to volunteer outdoors or rake leaves around the yard.
  - – Get creative! I even went to the zoo a few weeks ago and walked miles and miles around all of the exhibits. New forms of exercise make the time go by faster and keep things interesting.
  - – Look for small lifestyle changes you can make that will enable you to get more exercise during the normal day. Get up a couple minutes early to walk the dog or take a walk outside with your coworkers during your lunch break; little changes can make a big difference.
  - – Watch what you eat. Be aware the colder weather makes us crave heartier foods – foods that contain less water and more calories. Most people tend to be less active in the winter as well, so just be mindful. Pay attention to what you eat and do your best to get exercise whenever possible. Paying attention to your activities and meals is key!
  - – If you haven’t already, try to take a break from the gym and get some exercise outdoors while the weather is still warm. Chances are, during the winter, you will spend plenty of time on the treadmill, and we all know how boring that can get. Break up the dull routine now with some variety to shake things up and keep you motivated through the cold months ahead.

Do you have any tips on how to stay in shape during the fall/winter season? Let me know, I would love to hear them. Trying new things is a great way to keep you motivated too!