Maximize your workout with these preparation tips for staying active outdoors

Cooler temperatures, combined with diminishing sunlight, could dampen your spirits to continue on your fitness journey. Of course, there are many dyed-in-the-wool workout fanatics who enjoy the wet, soggy and sometimes snowy conditions, and yet every person willing to venture outside their comfort zone will find an intoxicating invasion of the senses awaits them. The unique set of challenges, including inclement weather, slippery terrain and sudden drops in temperature goes with the territory.

If you are thinking of starting an exercise program now, whether running, walking, biking on the trails or all three, you will enjoy the cooler temperature that allows you to stay out longer, while you require less water than during the summer months. With a kaleidoscope of multi-coloured leaves and the sweet scent of composting vegetation, it’s hard not to feel invigorated while breathing in the cool fresh air. For many, this is motivating enough to venture out again the next day, no matter the weather you may encounter. Getting enough exercise is the key to overall health; fall just happens to offer a lot of reasons to lace up your shoes and get outside.

Here are my preparation tips to help you get started:

Develop a positive mindset to embrace the season and enjoy the many benefits of why you are exercising.

Set a realistic goal, such as to lose weight or improve your personal best time at any distance.

Consult with your physician before starting a fitness program.

Invest in shoes for the terrain you will be on and the proper gear for your chosen activity.

Avoid cotton socks especially, and cotton garments generally, which may lead to blisters when wet. Instead use wool socks. Consider www.Ibex.com or www.Icebreaker.com, for example.

Dress in layers; invest in sweat-wicking and water-resistant fabrics. Also invest in a safety vest, such as from www.getvizy.com, to be seen by cars and others while working out in the dark.

Explore new routes with challenging hills to improve your stamina and endurance.

Running on different terrains helps keep you motivated and offers a change of scenery. Running on different terrain also helps to minimize the impact on your legs.

Follow a proper nutrition plan, stay hydrated despite colder temperatures, and get proper sleep.

Carry ID with you and always let someone know where you are going.

Reward yourself every week to help motivate you to accomplish your goals.

Finally, remember to take use SierraSilⓇ to ease those sore joints and muscles for you and a canine friend!

- Christine Blanchette, RUN WITH IT