The leaves are changing, the air is crisper, and pumpkin spice is everywhere! That can only mean one thing – fall is here! While it might be tempting to curl up on the couch with a cozy blanket and a warm drink, it’s crucial to keep moving during these cooler months. Here are some fall fitness tips for how to stay active during the new season.
Set a Goal and Make a Plan
To stay active, start by setting a goal and making a plan. Your goal could be something specific, like running a 5k or lifting a certain amount of weight, or it could be more general, like getting fitter or losing weight. Once you have your goal, make a plan to achieve it. Schedule workout times on your calendar and stick to them, even if it means waking up a little earlier or making some changes to your schedule.
Make Your Goals SMART
SMART goals are a helpful tool to help you stay on track. SMART is an acronym that stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-based. When setting fitness goals, apply the SMART framework to make sure your goals are clear, trackable, and motivating:
- Specific: Clearly define your fitness goals.
- Measurable: Keep track your progress.
- Achievable: Set realistic goals based on your current fitness level and resources.
- Relevant: Align your goals with your overall fitness and health objectives.
- Time-bound: Set a clear timeline or deadline.
Embrace the Outdoors
Fall is a beautiful season, and one of the best ways to stay active is to enjoy the outdoors. Go for a hike, take a walk in the park or go apple picking. These activities not only get you moving but also let you breathe in the fresh air and soak up the beauty of the season. Research has shown that spending time in nature can boost both your physical and mental health.
Try Something New
Fall is an excellent time to try something new and mix up your workout routine. Sign up for a yoga or dance class, try indoor rock climbing, join a neighborhood walking group, or take up a new sport like tennis or basketball. Trying new activities keeps things exciting and challenges your body in new ways, which can help keep you motivated.
Make Your Home Workout-Friendly
As the days get shorter and the weather gets colder, you might prefer staying home for your workouts. That’s okay – just make your home workout-friendly. Invest in some basic workout gear like dumbbells or resistance bands and set up a small workout space in your home. You can find many free workout videos online or even schedule virtual workout sessions with a personal trainer if you need the extra guidance.
Keep Yourself Accountable
Lastly, one of the most important things you can do to stay active in the fall is to keep yourself accountable. Share your fitness goals with a friend or family member and ask for their support in keeping you on track. You can also use fitness apps or wearable devices to monitor your progress and stay accountable. Tracking your workouts helps you see your progress and celebrate your accomplishments, which can be incredibly motivating.
Embrace the beauty of fall while keeping your body healthy and strong! With these fall fitness tips, you’ll be sure to have an active and enjoyable season.