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.
• Stay hydrated.You may not feel as thirsty when you exercise
in cooler weather, but it’s just as important to keep your body
well hydrated. When you sweat, you lose more than just water.
An option like Propel Electrolyte Water helps you replace what’s
lost in sweat through its key electrolyte – sodium – and supports
hydration by stimulating thirst and aiding in fluid balance. With the
same level of electrolytes as Gatorade, zero calories and no sugar,
it can be a perfect choice to support your active lifestyle.
• 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 caffeinefree
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.
By Jennifer Bonazzo Peters
30 BC Health, Beauty & Fitness