It’s hard not to love fall — there’s pumpkin spice lattes everywhere, crisp air, and turning leaves. Because fall incites so much giddiness, it’s a great time to start working on your fitness goals. Here are seven reasons why fall is the perfect time to get in shape:
1. COLDER WEATHER IS AWESOME FOR RUNNING
Fall is the best time to exercise outdoors, especially running. Why? Because it’s not too hot or too cold outside. Plus, with the leaves changing, it’s a gorgeous time to be outside.
2. THERE’S TONS OF HEALTHY AND TASTY FALL PRODUCE
Fall is a fabulous time to roast vegetables, and there are tons to choose from, such as squash, pumpkins, sweet potatoes, apples, pears, and more. Make healthy stews and salads with these delicious fruits and vegetables.
3. THE GYMS ARE LESS CROWDED
If you’re not into exercising outdoors, the gym can be your best friend. And fall is a good time to hit up the gym because it’s typically less crowded. That means you can get in and out of the gym in no time.
4. YOU CAN PREPARE FOR THOSE EXTRA THANKSGIVING AND CHRISTMAS POUNDS
Once the holidays roll around, you’ll probably end up eating more than your fair share of seasonal treats. To prepare for Thanksgiving and Christmas, you can get extra-fit in the fall so that you’ll be able to handle the temptation of eating all those cookies and pies. A couple of months of exercising and eating healthy will make it easier to get through the holidays without gaining unwanted weight.
5. IT’S EASIER TO GET BACK INTO A ROUTINE
Summer is filled with vacations and weddings, and it isn’t a very structured time. This makes it challenging sticking to an exercise routine. But now that fall is here, it should be a lot easier getting back into the swing of things. Routines are essential for forming long-lasting healthy habits.
6. YOU’LL APPRECIATE INDOOR WORKOUTS MORE
Sometimes fall weather can bring nasty rain storms and snow. When the weather doesn’t allow you to exercise outdoors, it makes sense to take advantage of indoor exercises, such as spin classes, yoga studios, strength training, and cardio videos to focus on getting fit.
7. PUMPKINS ARE EVERYWHERE
Take advantage of fall by eating as many pumpkins as you can. Pumpkins are a superfood — they’re rich in fiber and packed with beta-carotene and potassium. Try making pumpkin chilis and soups.
Jumpstart your fitness routine this autumn
Fall is the ideal time to jumpstart your fitness routine. Why? Because it’s a great time to exercise outdoors and to establish a routine after all those summer vacations. Plus fall fruits and vegetables are all super healthy and delicious. Make sure to take advantage of all that fall has to offer!
References
- “10 Tips for Fall Fitness,” WebMD, n.d.
- “7 Healthy Reasons to Get Excited for Fall,” Shape, n.d.
- “7 Reasons Fall is a Great Time to Jumpstart Your Weight-Loss Goals,” Women’s Health, October 24, 2014.
