Staying Active and Healthy as the Weather Cools: Fall Fitness Tips
Ahh, the sweet season of fall. The days of pumpkin spice everything, back-to-school shopping, and yards full of colorful leaves are upon us. As the seasons change, many people find it hard to keep themselves motivated about their fitness. Whether it’s staying consistent despite fewer daytime hours, or learning the safe way to exercise in cool temperatures, we’ve got you covered.
Here are some tips on how to keep up with your Fall Fitness:
1. Work Out at Home
If the cool temperatures deter you from wanting to start or keep up with an outdoor routine, you should try working out indoors! Contrary to popular belief, you can burn calories and stay fit in your own home, even with limited space. Activities like pilates and yoga are nice low-impact ways to keep active inside that don’t require much space.
2. Turkey Trots and Fun Runs
During the fall, events like Fun Runs and Turkey Trots come to cities all around North Carolina. These marathons provide a chance to be outdoors and meet new friends, all while improving your health. Depending on which seasonal run you participate in, there could be a sweet reward at the end like a medal or t-shirt!
3. Seasonal Activities
Apple Picking: A fun activity in the fall is apple picking! Apple picking requires stretching, bending, and twisting- all of which are great for improving or maintaining mobility.
Leaf Raking: In the British Journal of Sports Medicine, they explain how activities like raking leaves can have significant health improvements to your cardiovascular function, blood sugar regulation, and even lower the risk of type 2 diabetes. Keeping your body moving-even with what may seem like a mundane task can still affect your fitness!
4. Work Out with a Buddy
Having a workout buddy can help hold you accountable for your fitness routine! If you’re feeling unmotivated because of weather, temperature, or even static location- having a partner can help push you to stick to your routine. With a workout partner, not only is someone counting on you, but the conversation can be a good distraction during certain fitness activities.
5. Layer Up
If you’re someone who works up a sweat while working out, it can be tempting to wear less layers to avoid getting as hot. However, if you’re working out outside in chilly weather, layers can be helpful as they trap in warm air to keep you insulated. The American College of Sports Medicine and Harvard Health recommend three layers of clothing for working out in the cold.
It’s suggested that you dress for 10 degrees higher than the day’s forecast, and you should check the forecast for things like wind chill and possible rain or snow, as the appropriate gear may differ based on these factors. Find out more specifics on how to alter your clothing based on the weather conditions.
Cold air can cause bronchial irritation, coughing, and airway restriction. People with asthma, COPD, or similar health conditions are more likely to experience these issues during cold weather.
Bethany has a Pulmonologist, Wayne Beauford who has been serving the triad for over 30 years. Dr. Beauford uses a variety of invasive and non-invasive diagnostic techniques to help his patients improve their respiratory function.
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