How to change up your workout routine for fall
Just because summer is ending doesn’t mean you have to give up exercising outside. Autumn is actually a great time to explore the outdoors since the temperatures are cooler. Here are ten tips to make the most of your fall workouts:
1. Enjoy the greenery
Compared to hitting the gym, exercising outside feels like much less work. Enjoy the cooler weather, and take advantage of fall’s colorful foliage. Go hiking or ride on a bike path that’s located in nature.
2. Dress in layers
Invest in breathable, moisture-wicking clothing. You don’t want to overdress, but you also want to ensure you’re warm enough. Depending on where you live, temperatures could gradually decrease or drastically dip over the next month or two. That’s why dressing in removable layers is a good idea.
3. Freeze your gym membership
If you’d rather spend more time outside, consider freezing your gym membership for a month or two. Not only will this save you money, but you’ll also be able to focus your attention on outdoor activities and enjoy the changing leaves.
4. Stay safe
With shorter days come dark mornings and evenings. While this shouldn’t discourage you from walking or running outside, just be smart about it. Wear reflective workout clothes, carry a flashlight, and stay clear of heavy traffic roads.
5. Engage in self-care
Fall is the perfect time to rejuvenate the body, mind, and spirit. Regularly schedule self-care by getting a massage after exercising, learning to meditate, doing yoga, and taking an art class. Treat yourself to all kinds of activities that promote wellness.
6. Cut yourself some slack
Remember that your body can take a few weeks to adapt to lifestyle changes. Instead of giving up right away, give yourself a break. Try to stick with an exercise program for at least a month, and don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately.
7. Get motivated
Different things motivate people. Some want to become more flexible and reduce stress, while others want to strengthen and tone their body. Choose something you enjoy doing that’ll help you achieve your goals.
8. Stay hydrated
Be sure to stay hydrated even as temperatures cool down. People often feel less thirsty when it’s cooler outside, which is why it’s crucial to keep on top of your fluid intake throughout the day.
9. Turn chores into a workout
Instead of dreading raking up all those leaves in the backyard, turn it into a workout! You can burn between 300 and 400 calories per hour just by raking leaves — not only is it a great cardio workout, but it helps tone and strengthen your body, too.
10. Work out indoors, too
As the weather cools down and changes, staying motivated can be challenging. Don’t be afraid to work out indoors when the weather is bad, and you can’t exercise outdoors. Varying your workouts will keep you engaged and motivated.
References
- “10 Tips for Fall Fitness,” Huffington Post, November 23, 2014.
- “9 Ways to Maintain Your Workout Momentum Through Fall,” Livestrong, September 5, 2019.
