Staying Motivated for Motion
By Donna Stark
Summer is certainly one of the most enjoyable times to head outdoors and move your body, but that shouldn't diminish the joys of exercising in the fall. Working out in the cooler temperatures and beautiful scenery is the perfect way to get your body prepared for the hectic holiday season that is just around the corner. Take a moment to look at the following tips that will help keep you motivated for motion in the weeks ahead.
Dress for the Conditions
Don't let the chillier weather deter you from heading outdoors and staying on top of your workouts. Stay warm by selecting the appropriate footwear, wearing the right type of clothes, and dressing in layers. Don't forget to keep some hats, gloves, and scarves handy too! The early morning and evening air will get chilly!
Walk, Walk, and Walk Some More
Yes, it is a little bit colder, but don't let that stop you from lacing up your shoes and heading out for a walk, especially if you have somewhere to go and your destination is close. Just throw on your jacket and get moving. Not only will you warm up very quickly, you will also be getting in some extra precious minutes of exercise. Try to reduce the number of times you drive by filling your days with more steps.
Stay Hydrated
You may not associate the cooler temperatures with dehydration, but it can still happen because sweat evaporates very quickly in cold air. Even if you feel less inclined to carry water along because of the cold temperatures, the best way to avoid any dangerous situations is to always have some water by your side.
Invite a Friend
If you don't feel safe exercising outdoors on your own because the days are getting shorter and darkness arrives a lot earlier than what you are used to, it may be a good idea to invite a friend to work out with you. Having a friend by your side is a great way to stay safe and accountable to your routine and goals. It's also a great way to deepen your bond with your friend.
Turn Your Yard Work into a Workout
Raking leaves, setting out the pumpkins, pruning the trees for the winter ... cleaning up your yard and turning it into a fall oasis is a lot of work, but that's OK! The chores in your yard can become an all-over body workout simply by throwing in some extra lunges and squats while working.
Staying Motivated for Motion
Don't let the cooler temperatures keep you hunkered down indoors. By incorporating the tips above into your daily routine, you can maintain the motivation you need to keep moving your body during the fall.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Brookfield, Wis.