FALL INTO A FITNESS ROUTINE

Fall is notorious for comfort foods like pumpkin spice lattes and game day nachos.  Combine these tempting seasonal staples with darker, shorter days and it can be hard to maintain an active mindset.  Despite the enticement to indulge, you can keep your active lifestyle going or even kick off a new fitness regime.

This year, take advantage of the winds of change when the seasons switch and commit to smart habits for a healthy fall.

Dress for success:

As the temperatures drop, you may be tempted to bundle up before heading outdoors to exercise, and for your warm-up and cool-down period, that’s not a bad idea.  However, while you’re in the midst of your workout, it’s easy to get overheated.  Wear layers that you can shed as you begin to sweat and consider moisture-wicking materials that can prevent sweaty clothes from getting cold in the breeze.

Opt for early workouts:

When dark comes early, it can trick your mind into thinking it’s time to wind down for the night.  Avoid that motivation pitfall by planning your workout earlier in the day, such as first thing in the morning or during your lunch break.  If early mornings are daunting, remember that it won’t take long to shift your sleep schedule and early exercise is a caffeine-free way to put some energy into your day.

Find exercises you enjoy:

Forcing yourself through exercises you despise will only backfire in the long run.  If you’re not a runner, look for other ways to get your cardio pumping. Interval walking with varied paces and elevation can be an effective alternative or look at ideas like kickboxing or aerobics that you can have fun with while working up a sweat.

Indulge in moderation:

Virtually every expert agrees that an occasional indulgence is perfectly acceptable, but use caution when the fall goodies start tempting.  Those warm, rich desserts and drinks are filled with empty calories that can make all your hard work go to waste.

Set realistic goals:

Having a long-term goal is a good idea, but be sure to set attainable expectations for yourself, including some milestones you can celebrate along the way to keep your motivation strong. Be realistic about how much time you can dedicate to fitness with your other life demands so you can set your goals accordingly.

Don’t skimp on skin care:

The sun may not be as hot, but if you’re exercising outdoors, you’re still at risk for sunburn.  Protect any exposed skin with sunscreen before working out.