How to Stay Active in the Fall: Tips for Parents, Indoor Exercises, and Outdoor Adventures

I write this on a lovely summer day and will head to the pool in a few hours. But, as the Starks say, “Winter is coming,” and the Fall will be here soon. As the seasons change, our schedules change, and getting enough exercise can become more of a challenge.

Research shows that physical activity levels change with the seasons, tending to be highest in spring and lowest in winter. Weather conditions, such as higher wind and precipitation, tend to reduce physical activity, and clear skies and longer daylight hours are associated with increased physical activity in children. Here are some hints to reach your exercise goals as the days get shorter.

Kids in Fall Sports? – Don’t Just Be a Spectator

With the resumption of school and organized sports, many parents are drafted into the role of chauffeur, taking their kids to soccer, swimming, football, etc., practices. This can eat up hours of time, as watching their kids practice is often more time-efficient rather than dropping them off and picking them up. The sports activity is excellent for the kids, but the parents frequently spend sedentary hours on the sidelines or in the bleachers.  

My advice here is for parents to incorporate some movement into their time. My wife and I used to walk laps on the outdoor track that circled the soccer practice fields while our kids played. We could easily get in a 2-3 mile walk during soccer practice while seeing our kids play. Even without a track, just walking back and forth the length of the field or the indoor gym will benefit metabolic health as opposed to quietly sitting.

Enjoy the Cooler Weather

As outdoor temperatures drop, nature hikes become a more alluring option – fewer mosquitoes, less sweating. Outdoor walking is an excellent option for both body and mind, as studies show exposure to nature while walking has powerful benefits to both mood and cognition. Fall presents seasonal options to increase the fun, such as haunted trails and corn mazes, for outdoor activity and some amusement. Fall-themed fitness events like Turkey Trot runs are another good way to get your steps in during the season. Take advantage of these before the winter comes!

Can’t Get Outside? No Problem

When the weather gets too severe to enjoy outdoor activities, or if your work schedule prevents you from getting out during the shorter daylight hours, do not despair; you still have options. Commercial fitness facilities are naturally an option for an excellent workout in a controlled environment. If geography or your budget makes access to a gym an obstacle, you can get great workouts in your home, with no exercise equipment needed, using bodyweight exercises such as calisthenic routines, aerobic dance, or yoga. You can even find free guided routines online to follow.   

The seasons change, and we must adapt. Happily, there is always a way to incorporate more activity into your day. Find the way that best suits you, and thrive!

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