33 How to Stay Active in Fall

By: Valerie Reyes Editor-in-ChiefHow to Stay Active in Fall

As the weather becomes cooler and the sun begins to set earlier, you might find yourself having less motivation. Having little to no “get up and go” during these upcoming fall months is normal, especially as students who take multiple classes, work, play sports and try to simply take care of ourselves—all at the same time! Using the cold months during the last part of the year to binge a TV show or do absolutely nothing can be tempting, but here are a few ways you can stay active and motivated.

Get out and enjoy the brisk weather and colorful trees by signing up for a local fall themed 5k race. If that isn’t your thing, you can try going on quick walks or even bike rides. If it gets too cool for outdoor activities, you can improve your fitness by signing up for a gym membership, following a fall fitness challenge or even trying at home workouts on YouTube. If you need more motivation, find a partner to do these activities with and push each other to do your best. Someone keeping you company can definitely make exercise feel like less of a chore!

However, just because it’s cold outside, doesn’t mean you have to stay inside. According to www.verywellmind.com, “The weather may also present some mental health benefits. The cooler temperatures and spectacular foliage encourage us to spend time in nature, which has been connected with improvements in our happiness, wellbeing, relationships, and sense of having a life purpose.” It may be worthwhile to layer up and spend a few hours out in the leaves! Beyond exercise, fall is full of activities. It’s the perfect time to make plans with friends, family, a significant other or to try some things alone. Plan outings to visit a local pumpkin patch, go apple picking or try out a haunted house (even if they seem overrated).

For the homebodies, clear your mind by picking up a new hobby such as reading, journaling, baking or anything else you might find interesting. Do some yard work, and, while you’re at it, you can decorate for Halloween. Start the new season fresh by doing some fall cleaning and decluttering, such as replacing your summer wardrobe with your fall wardrobe or rearranging your room. Making your surroundings comfortable and cozy may help improve your mood.

Fall is also a great time to begin reflecting on the past year and start thinking ahead towards new goals. According to www.cuesta.edu, “Goals provide the direction you need to reach your destination, the motivation to sustain you on your trip, and a way to measure your progress.” Setting your goals now will give you the motivation to work hard for what you want in the future. This is a great way to begin making positive changes for yourself, and it doesn’t have to start with the new year.

During the fall and winter months, it is okay to take it one day at a time and rest as much as you need. Being active can help improve both your mind and body in addition to much needed rest. Finding things that will keep you moving and motivated can be beneficial in the long run – don’t “fall” into the habit of doing nothing!