Fall is the second busiest time for gyms and exercise facilities in the United States. Perhaps, as the kids go back to school, parents may have more time to get back into their workout routines. It's also a great time of year to get involved in company-sponsored activities.
Here are seven easy tips to help get set for success this fall, whether starting a new workout program or returning to a previously laid out plan. These guidelines can help achieve personal fitness goals, and they can be incorporated into corporate wellness programs to guide employees toward a healthy lifestyle.
Be sure you have the right stuff.
If you're starting an exercise routine, make sure that you have proper clothing and equipment. Do you need to upgrade your running shoes? Buy a new water bottle? Purchase a lock for the gym? Get new headphones for your motivational tunes? Don't wait until your first workout to find out something's missing.
Fuel up for fitness.
Great workout routines are partnered with great nutrition. Are you consuming the USDA recommended 4 servings of fruits and vegetables a day? Drinking eight glasses of water a day? Limiting fast food and junk food? Watching your portion sizes? Healthy eating habits can make the difference in a successful workout routine.
Check with your doctor.
If you're starting an exercise program and it's been a couple years since your last physical, you might want to stop into the doctor's office and touch base. It's always recommended to have a doctor's approval before starting any physical exercise program.
Buddy up with like-minded individuals.
A recent University of Georgia study reveals that people tend to mimic the behavior of others around them. You're more likely to show long-term success if you have an exercise buddy to support and encourage you. Start a walking group on Facebook and invite friends to join you. Or team up with your coworkers. A social support network can help motivate and hold you accountable.
Take advantage of the weather.
As the weather cools into the fall, make sure to take advantage of the great outdoors. Are there any new bike trails or walking trails in the area you have yet to explore? Or a new dog park?
Exercise during practice.
One of the common barriers I hear from individuals during the fall season regarding their lack of physical activity is that they would like to exercise, but are constantly taking their kids to soccer practice, cheerleading practice, football practice or some other extracurricular activity.
Use this time to your advantage. After dropping the kids off at their practice, get out of the car and walk around the practice facility. Partner with another parent and walk with each other.
Make sure you're well rested.
To reach peak performance during your workout routines, ensure you're getting enough rest. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend you get between seven and nine hours of sleep per night.
Whether you're exercising on your own, with friends or as part of a friendly company-wide competition, following these simple tips will help ensure that you get where you want to go in a safe and healthy way.
About the Author
Matthew Szenderski is a Health Management Specialist for Keenan. He holds an MBA in Health Management and is certified by the ACSM as a Health and Fitness Specialist. He has over eight years of experience in the corporate wellness arena with areas of expertise in coaching, biometric screenings, program development, and controlling health care costs.
