As the days turn shorter and the mornings colder it can be hard to motivate for a workout. This is especially true for us outdoor exercisers. Fortunately, fab fitness contributor Cortney is here with her tips and tricks for keeping that motivation. Whether you are running addicted (like me) or just enjoy a brisk walk (who doesn’t) get properly layered and get outside for fresh cleansing air. It will do the mind, body and soul some good. And now that we are in the midst of holiday madness we need that more that ever. Enjoy Cortney’s words of fitspiration. xx
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There is just something about autumn that makes me NEED to put on my sneaks and run. I am an “early bird” by nature, and Fall at dawn is absolutely the most beautiful time of day for a run. I like to sneak out of the house while the kids sleep or watch TV (my kids inherited my early riser problem), and hit the pavement. I run in silence (I know, I know, gasp!). The horror! Just me and the open road, the sunrise and dew kissed spider webs. I think about the playlist I’m going to make for work, the weeks dinner menus, Halloween parties and our crazy schedule. I love the fresh brisk air that the autumn brings and the orange glow the sun casts on my town.
Get Inspired #fallfitness
The fall has even inspired my own personal #fallfitness challenge. I have set a personal goal for myself and have made a new fitness schedule. My days alternate between SPIN classes, short run days and a long run day followed by yoga. I try my best to sprinkle in at least 2 more yoga classes a week. They’re better than Advil after a long run! Swear!
Get psyched!
Okay, so it’s colder, darker, and harder to get up and get moving… I get it. Lay your clothes out the night before, grab your iPod and get moving. I like to run with the app MapMyRun. It’s free and tracks your distance, calories, rate, and splits pace. It keeps me motivated once I know I’m at the half way mark. You can also post your accomplishments to social media or keep them private.
Get the Gear:
Shoes:
Find some good running shoes that fit your foot. Many specialty run shops have employees with expert advice to help you find your perfect shoe. What works best for your bestie might be terrible on you! Try some on, test them out, and spend some time finding the perfect shoe. Replace them every year. Yes, it will be well worth it on your awesome runs.
Wear Layers:
The change in season often brings widely variable temperatures. While I may start a run in the brisk, cool, morning, I always end up hot and sweaty toward the middle. Multiple layers of running specific clothing will ensure your ability to add or remove clothing to keep you comfortable in the varying temperatures.
Be Visible:
Right around the first sign of autumn my husband starts to express concern for my safety during early morning/late afternoon runs. You should always wear a brightly colored top. Many stores are now offer clothing with reflective panels to ensure you never go unnoticed. It’s also a good idea to snap on a flashing LED light, just to be on the safe side. Safety is a mommies number one concern so be sure to pick a safe and well-traveled path to run on. I don’t like to run through nature parks, hiking trails, or remote areas alone. I always run in the middle of a neighborhood, boardwalk along the beach or open well-lit park. Basic rule of thumb for life: if it makes you feel uneasy, it’s probably a bad idea.
Now get out there and enjoy autumn!!!
shoes // jacket // top // gloves // beanie // pants // flashing LED reflector
Cortney Taketa is YAS spin instructor, and a fabulous mommy of three. For more fitness tips by Cortney, check out her other posts here.
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