Bike riding is just one of many ways to stay fit and enjoy the weather this fall.
Quick tips on staying fit this fall
Summer may be gone but exercise opportunities linger
Bike riding is just one of many ways to stay fit and enjoy the weather this fall.
Summertime in Chicago offers countless ways to get fit. Volleyball nets fill the beaches, joggers pound up and down the lake shore and bicyclists criss-cross the city.
But all too soon the days become shorter, temperatures drop and heading outside to exercise becomes more and more challenging. When fall sets in, Sue Talbert, MS, personal trainer with the Galter LifeCenter in Chicago, sees more people struggle to stay active. Talbert’s main advice is simple, she allows, but it works: “Find something you like to do. That way you’ll stick with it.”
Talbert, who is also an exercise physiologist working in cardiac rehabilitation at Swedish Covenant Hospital, offers the following advice to help you stay fit this fall:
Seize the season
Autumn in Chicago isn’t all dark and dreary. The season also boasts a number of cool but sunny days.
“Brisk walks are great for fall because it’s chilly out,” she said. Bicycling, raking leaves and gardening are also active ways to enjoy the autumn days.
The nearby North Park Village Nature Center (5801 N. Pulaski) offers fall nature walks, bird walks and other nature-oriented activities, and numerous other local businesses host seasonal events that can keep you active.
Work out with a buddy
Being accountable to someone helps you roll out of bed on those dark mornings. “Pick a friend or ask your mate to help you and encourage you,” she said.
Another effective way to use the buddy system — get a dog and turn those regular walks into fitness opportunities.
Keep fitness on your agenda
The “back to school” mentality can make fall a far busier season than summer. To maintain a workout schedule during jam-packed days, put exercise on your calendar as you would any other appointment. In time, Talbert said, a regular fitness routine will become automatic.
“If you have a conflict and have to change things, reschedule your exercise,” she said. “Don’t just take it off the calendar.”
Stay home — and work out
Is a downpour keeping you from exercising? Talbert recommends checking out fitness DVDs at the library. If you find a workout style you like, you can pursue classes or purchase additional equipment.
Check in with a professional
Many people fear the gym because they feel uncomfortable and unsure what to do. Fall is a great time to schedule some sessions with a personal trainer and learn how to get fit indoors. Talbert helps introduce newcomers to exercise and “establish short-term and long-term goals.”
This article was originally printed in Well magazine, the precursor to this site, in September 2008.
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