4 Ways to Train and Stay in Shape this Fall

4 Ways to Train and Stay in Shape this Fall

By Stephanie Clark

NW Fitness Magazine.

4 Ways to Train and Stay in Shape this Fall By Stephanie Clark NW Fitness Magazine.
4 Ways to Train and Stay in Shape this Fall
By Stephanie Clark
NW Fitness Magazine.

Fall is one of the most beautiful times of year, but it’s also a transitional period for many people – in both a good or a bad way. While many people huddle indoors when the cold weather comes along, others take advantage of cooler temperatures to push themselves and retain that beach body all year-round. If you’ve historically hit the skids once autumn rolls around, consider these four tips for staying in shape this fall.

Find a Great Indoor Arena

Community centers, private gyms, and athletic clubs occasionally take their outdoor spaces indoors during the cooler months, allowing athletes to train in temperature controlled environments without the risk of rain or snow inhibiting their progress. Enclosed gymnasiums and indoor tracks make for great opportunities to join a team, club, or form a workout group with other like-minded athletes. It’s a great way to meet new people and stay in shape at the same time, but be sure to find someplace near your home or on your way back from work or you may be tempted to skip a session when you’re too busy.
Invest in Cold Weather Gear

Running, cycling, and every other outdoor activity performed in cold weather can be a challenge both mentally and physically. You can negate some of the chilling effects by investing in cold weather athletic gear, hats, and gloves. If your shoes are looking a little worn or the tread isn’t sufficient for icy conditions, you’ll need to upgrade those as well. Gear Patrol has a pretty good roundup of the best winter running shoes of the season, but be sure to visit a store and try them on for yourself before purchasing a pair. The chances for an athletic injury increase with winter weather conditions and protecting your body through stretching, proper warmup, and the right athletic support are crucial to staying safe.

Change Your Diet

The holidays are often seen as an excuse to put on a little extra weight, and who can blame anyone for that? The best cooking of the year happens on Thanksgiving and Christmas and with such rich, plentiful food available to you, your training cycle can get out of whack fast. Exercise portion control as much as possible and retain your dailyrough tines. If you’re visiting family around the holidays,try and find an exercise facility or outdoor area to get in a quick workout. And if your family all pitches in to help fill the table during the holidays, try some seasonal recipes that avoid fried, sugary, or salty foods. Green vegetables and grilled lean meats are a good alternative to the heavy staples of the holiday season, so don’t be afraid to switch things up while maintaining that fresh taste of fall.

Take Things Outdoors

The temptation to curl up indoors is an appealing one. Some of the best movies, TV shows, and sports arrive along with cooler weather, but plunking down in front of the flat screen shouldn’t be your default activity. Skiing, snowboarding, sledding, hiking, corn mazes, sports leagues, bike rides, trips to the beach, rock climbing, and so much more await the intrepid fall enthusiast. There are endless opportunities to get outside and enjoy the crisp autumn air, so don’t be afraid to pack up the family and head out for the weekend – the TV shows will wait.

Stephanie Clark

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