Sustaining your summer workout into the fall

Keep your summer momentum into the fall

As the summer slowly comes to a close, schools are back in session and you begin to plan for the start of the fall season, don’t lose your momentum for staying healthy and active with a regular workout! Here are some tips to stay on track even as your schedule gets busier, the nights get darker, and colder weather begins to move in.

1. Arrange a workout date. Invite a friend, family member, or coworker to the gym — pick a class you will take weekly together. You are more likely to workout if you are held accountable and someone is expecting you there.
2. Make your exercise routine a priority! Even if it is a modified workout and you only can do a 15-minute run or fast walk, try to add in a few push-ups, planks or lunges. Focus on keeping your body active and try to exercise a minimum of five days a week, even if it’s only for 15-20 minutes.
3. Try to exercise earlier in the day when you have more energy — the later it gets, the more tired you feel, which means it’s more likely you may opt to skip your workout.
4. Have fun while you work out! If your fitness routine is enjoyable, you will be more likely to stick with it, whether it’s a group fitness class, a personal training session or small group training, playing tennis or simply jogging!

Workouts aren’t the only thing that can be derailed in the fall — healthy eating habits can fall by the wayside with the buzz of back-to-school. Here are a few fun, healthy eating tips for the whole family, excerpted from choosemyplate.gov!

Prepare yourself for the fall and beginning of school with positive parenting:

1. Show by example — be a good food role model! Let your child see you eating healthy foods.
2. Go food shopping together and let your child make healthy choices.
3. Get creative in the kitchen and encourage your child to pack a healthy lunch.
4. Offer the same healthy foods for all family members.
5. Reward healthy decisions with attention, not food.
6. Make time for fun and happy family meal times.
7. Listen to your child!
8. Limit screen time and encourage physical activity.