4 Great Ways To Boost Your Fall Fitness

Do you think you need a New Year’s resolution to get in shape? Think again. Autumn is actually the best time to be motivated. The temperatures are cool but not freezing, and the scenery is lovely. So try these tips to step up your seasonal fitness routine:

Put On Your Hiking Boots

It’s a perfect time to explore national parks and hiking trails. If that’s not your thing, just a walk around your local park to help you stay in shape. Other ideas? Biking, playing fetch with your dog, or yard and garden clean-up.

Consider It A New Semester Even though you’re no longer in school, autumn can trigger thoughts of returning to classes. Why not do it? But this time consider taking classes that will keep you fit: Zumba, tap or ballroom dancing, tai chi, even fencing are good activities. Lots of classes at gyms and Ys get started in the fall, so look around and see if something intrigues you. If class is held outdoors, even better!

Stay Active While Watching TV Sure, the new fall line-up can keep us glued to our sets, but we don’t have to be sitting down. While watching you can walk or run in place, do standing lunges, tricep dips off the couch, or lift weights. During commercials, do push-ups or sit-ups. In a one-hour show, you probably have close to 20 minutes worth of commercial interruption!

Commit To Cleaning It’s a great time to burn calories by cleaning, organizing and decorating your home for the new season. And, your house will be presentable and clean for the winter, when it comes time to hibernate.

And Dress In Layers! No matter what fitness plan you choose, it’s always a good idea when autumn rolls around to dress in layers. The inner layer should be a moisture-wicking fabric, so it wicks away sweat and you're not chilled. The second layer should be a warmth layer, and the third layer should be a protective layer like a windbreaker or rain slicker, depending on the weather. Add a scarf on especially brisk days.