Crossroads Fitness Blog

Fall can be a season when exercise routines waiver. It’s no longer summer, but not yet winter. It’s too cold to continue with many of the summer activities you enjoy. You could even become a little blue with the realization summer and your favorite activities are over for a while.

Still, fall brings with it many other opportunities. Here are five tips to keep you active and ready to embrace this beautiful season:

Take it inside and outside. As temperatures drop, head back to the health club. Don’t miss out on a workout just because fall is in the air. Take a group exercise class. Mix it up. Still, fall offers a perfect time to enjoy the beautiful Grand Valley. With so many options from which to choose — like mountain biking and hiking — there’s no reason not to get out and enjoy the scenery and vibrant colors. Go exploring. Hike a new trail. Visit a park. Raking leaves or getting in some yardwork offer great ways to get the heart pumping. Spend time in nature. The fresh air does wonders for your mind as well as your body.

Layer your fall clothing. Learning the fundamentals of layering for fall and winter activities could mean the difference between comfort and misery. It’s important to layer while exercising in chilly weather. You might Quick read more or view full article feel cold at first. But as your body warms, you could feel overdressed. Follow the three-layer rule. The first layer next to your skin should be made of a moisture-wicking fabric, often called DriFit. This fabric keeps moisture away from your skin so you don’t feel wet and cold. The second layer should be a warmth layer and the third layer a protective layer, such as a windbreaker or something water-resistant depending on the weather. Don’t forget your sunglasses.

Don’t be blue. Many of us experience the blues as the weather cools and days shorten. Although it’s tempting when waking up in the dark, don’t hit the snooze button on the alarm. With less sunlight, you might want to increase consumption of Vitamin D. Eat foods rich in this vitamin, such as fish, egg yolks and mushrooms. Remember, too: Exercise releases endorphins that enhance your mood and feelings of happiness.

Watch the treats. It’s estimated the average American gains between 5 pounds and 9 pounds during a holiday season that begins with Halloween and continues through the new year. Halloween is a time when you stockpile bags of candy for the one evening when a few trick-or-treaters come to your door. The day after, leftover candy constitutes a sugar source that promotes unhealthy eating habits. Remember, Halloween is just one day.

Plan for the holidays. Take out a calendar early — like right now. Mark off time for exercise each day. Schedule a little exercise between things on busy days — 10 minutes is better than nothing. Keep your goals in mind throughout the holiday season. The time you allow yourself for exercise, sleep, nutrition and organization will make the busy season more manageable. Eat right and buy healthy snacks. Don’t fall into the trap of believing you’ll start after the new year. This is really saying you’ll find an excuse no matter the time of year. There will always be birthdays, parties and other special events.

Enjoy the change of seasons. Fall is a perfect time to keep fitness routines on track. Instead of using cooler weather as an excuse not to exercise, try using the season as an excuse to exercise. Happy fall.