After spending the summer scaling mountains or doing laps in an outdoor pool, fall’s cooler temperatures might have left you pondering your next step fitness-wise.

Unfortunately, too many of us simply neglect our fitness routines during the fall and winter. Instead of mustering up the determination to keep on track with our fitness goals, it’s much easier to curl up with a good book in front of a cozy fire.

But weeks of inactivity and overindulging on seasonal treats can wipe away all the gains you made during the spring and summer.  Remember how hard you worked to get ready for swimsuit season?

Instead of succumbing to your inner couch potato, here are some things you can do to keep fit as the mercury drops and the days grow shorter.

Work out at home

Fitness isn’t just about going to the gym in town or across the street. In fact, you don’t have to lift weights to keep fit. Even 20 minute workouts are just as useful and can be done at home in the living room. To maintain your workout routines, join an online workout club or purchase workout DVDs to that give step by step tips. Or, just work out with the guys on Exercise TV.

Start a new fitness routine

For all its advantages, summer can also be pretty occupying. You’ll always be caught up in activities, trying to find ways to entertain you kids and enjoy vacations. Fall is a great time to shelve that hustle and bustle lifestyle and re-engage with your old routines. It’s also the perfect time to begin those new workout plans you’ve been waiting to try.  Look online for a local fitness club or Pilates studio to join.  In addition to staying fit, this is a great way to meet new people who can help keep you motivated.

Enjoy the winter flavors

Fall comes with seasonal flavors in the form of pumpkin pies, turkey and dressing, and even candy corns. It’s also a time when apples, peas, sweet potatoes, and winter squash are in plenty. Pick up some of these from time to time. Aside from being rich in flavor and cheap on the wallet, they are excellent for your health and fitness.

Get out and run or bike

It might be getting colder, but that doesn’t mean you can’t go outdoors. Unless it’s raining or snowing, there are plenty of things you can do outdoors that will leave you sweating. They include riding a bike, jogging or going on regular walks.  There’s no better way to get your heart pumping than a brisk walk in the autumn air.

Find ways to enjoy the weather

Finally, each season is unique and fall is no different. The crisp air, turning leaves and seasonal scents and decorations make this a great time to get outdoors. So why not enjoy them before they’re gone? In places where snow falls early, try skiing or snowshoeing.  If you live near a lake, canoeing or kayaking are still options for most of the fall. In a nutshell, there are endless ways to keep fit in fall and they’re all enjoyable!

Like most kids our teen wanted to lift weights to get stronger for a sport. However, there was a difference. First, the kid is our daughter, not a son. Second, this was not some passing fancy. She really was committed to being the best in her sport right where she was at. When I asked her about a career in it, she said she wanted to be the best where she was at, and that she would do the same if she turned pro. We got her into a Denver strength training class tailored for her specific sport.

When I was a teen I started lifting weights at a friend’s house. His dad bought him a weight set and a bench. We would work out about three days per week. It got old for most of my friends, and I had to make use of the school gym after classes to keep up my goals. I was not wanting to compete, but I did want to be strong and fit. Continue reading →