Apple picking and trick or treating are certainly sweet ways to enjoy the season. But did you know that these outings can also keep you healthy?
Take advantage of the seasonal fun happening in around your town. In fact, make it part of your workout routine! Here’s a list of 10 seasonal activities for better fall fitness.
Autumn is such an alluring time of the year! While our calendars fill up with activities, it’s really fun to know that many of these can actually have a dual role. They’re fun and they play an important role in personal fitness goals such as:
- weight loss
- improved body strength
- better mobility
All without a personal trainer!
So grab the family, a bottle of water, and enjoy the crisp air. It’s time to…
Invite the Season into Your Fall Fitness Program!
Activities as Fall Fitness & Exercise
Here’s a list of family friendly activities to add to your bucket lists…and fall fitness routine!
1. Raking Leaves
There’s a lot to love about those leaves piling up in your yard. Not only is it an opportunity to have some jumping fun, but it’s also a great workout– helping to build upper body and core (stomach and back) strength.
Because it’s considered moderate exercise, follow these raking tips:
- pay attention to posture
- move slow and with control
- switch sides frequently
And don’t forget to warm up as if you were taking a brisk walk.
2. Gardening
In addition to leaves in your yard, you can maximize your fitness and do some gardening work. Think of activities such as:
- Weeding and clearing out summer veggie garden
- Picking up fallen sticks and limbs
- planting bulbs for next year
Now gardening doesn’t have to involve just pulling weeds. Make a fun outing out of it!
Visit a local nursery and walk around admiring fall plants and decor. Choose a couple mums and to bring home and spend some time planting or decorating front porch.
You’ll be using those major muscle groups and making your home look great!
3. Picking Pumpkins
Roaming the pumpkin patch is a great full-body workout without realizing it. Take a stroller or wagon and fill it up with pumpkins– you’ll benefit from that addition of light weight!
For added strength training, carry the pumpkins as you walk around the patch and use it at home as weight for fall fitness workouts.
Incorporate that pumpkin into fall recipes (0r stop by the store on the way home and grab a can if you’re like me!) and enjoy all the benefits of Pumpkin!
4. Apple Picking at the Orchard
Similar to pumpkin patches, you can really increase your activity throughout the day by walking the orchard.
You’re also working on mobility as apple picking also requires:
- reaching overhead
- twisting
- bending
Apple picking is a winner– you’re boosting your mood by being outdoors, moving your body and can enjoy bite into efforts for a snack that’s full of vitamins and nutrients.
5. Exploring a Corn Maze
While some pumpkin patches and orchards may have corn mazes, this is an activity to highlight on its own– It’s a great workout!
Between the adrenaline rush of the unknown, sprinting down the rows, or racing your family to the exit, you’re sure to burn calories and keep that heart pumping.
And if you get lost?
More steps!
And think about the boost to your mental health– problem solving and critical thinking.
Your mind and body will certainly be working. Be sure to pack water with you so you can hydrate along the way!
6. Visiting the Zoo or Farm
Zoos and farmsteads are generally great places to walk, with paved sidewalk and fun scenery. Especially in the fall! Walking increases strength and endurance; yet requires very little skill.
You can challenge yourself by walking further and taking stairs when an option.
And what a wonderful opportunity to pack a balanced lunch, get fresh air, and make memories along the way.
7. Walking at Arboretum or Park
Walk, Hike or bike (if allowed) around a local park or arboretum. The colors and change in foliage are not only beautiful; you’re training yourself to slow down, quiet, and connect with nature.
A study shows that connecting with nature is shown to calm the mind, increase awe and gratitude. Another way to support your mental health and support your overall well-being as you move your body.
For added variety and movement, put together a little nature scavenger hunt this fall.
8. Trick or Treating
Perhaps your mind goes to candy when you think of trick or treating. However, think about how many houses your kids go to in such a short amount of time. That’s a lot of activity!
Pro-tip: Practice walking the route in your neighborhood
Leading up to Halloween, take some walks in your neighborhood to “practice” your route. The Your kids will get excited thinking about it, and you’ll benefit from extra family walks!
You can also look for other activities such as trunk or treats at schools and churches to socialize and get some extra steps in.
And don’t forget about the candy. This is a great opportunity to teach your kids all the ways you can enjoy candy such as:
- sweet treat with a balanced lunch
- donating (like Treats for Troops)
- Sorting and storing for holiday baking and crafts
9. Attending for Group Fitness
Your local Park and Recreation may have some unique classes and events offered in fall that are inexpensive and close to home.
Look for ideas such as:
- Fun Runs
- Group Fitness classes
- Yoga (I’ve seen with goats, in the vineyard or at sunrise)
- Fall Festivals and Parades
Even outdoor concerts would get your moving around, socializing and doing something new!
10. Enjoying Home Workouts
Hanging around home? Open the windows, light a seasonal candle and enjoy move around your home with the following:
- Dancing
- YouTube Workout (search fall themed!)
- Chores
Even activity to one or two songs gives a boost in health and mood!
Opt to go outside and use your driveway to jump rope, chase the kids or do a short circuit routine.
Fall Fitness Exercise
Fitness routines aren’t just found in gyms and with certified personal trainers. Open up your heart and mind to all the opportunities to get your family moving this fall season.
Yes it’s true that outings, especially with littles, certainly take energy. And they can also give you energy.
Especially as you allow yourself to see and share God’s beauty and promises this fall season through time with your family and friends.
Looking for more?
For more fitness tips and workout routine ideas please see:
- Be a Neat Mom (NEAT Exercise)
- 5 Best YouTube Workout Videos for Moms and Kids
- The Ultimate Guide to Quick Workouts at Home
For more seasonal encouragement, please see:
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