Fall is by far my favorite time of the year. And since I’ve been spending more time on the east coast recently, I’m getting the chance to experience some REAL fall weather! The only downfall to the colder weather for me is that I’m not always as motivated to work out. Thank goodness I’ve come to learn that I’m not the only one who needs a little bit more of a push at this time of the year!
There are a lot of great bodies in Hollywood, but my friend Elizabeth Morrell is one of the MOST fit people I know….I’m mean, the woman actually has an EIGHT-pack…and an incredible story of how she got there. She’s also a fitness trainer and the star of her own tv show Ms. Fit One. So, I figured we could all learn a thing or two about keeping in shape at this time of the year from her. Here’s what she had to say:
I am the new kid on the block, literally. I recently moved to Charlotte, North Carolina from Southern California where it is sunny all year long. I can ride my bike outside in any season, the weather is always beautiful – however Charlotte, not so much. I am not accustomed to this cold weather, yes, I said COLD…. to me, but cool to the natives. I guess I can’t stay bundled up under my warm blanket on my big comfy couch, I must find ways to stay in shape in cool weather.
It doesn’t matter if you are already in shape or trying to lose weight, here are a few great workouts for fall season. Spin class, yes, I still must get my ride on. Maybe I can’t ride with the wind blowing in my face but I can still get in my jumps, hills and sprints in a spin class. Spinning is one of the best ways to burn calories without all the pressure on your knees. You can burn up to 1,000 calories in a one-hour class.
I really don’t enjoy Yoga, I said it!! But it is an essential practice for the mind, body and spirit – though I admit I am a seasonal Yogi. When it’s cold outside, I seek warmth and why not get a good workout in a controlled heated environment. Hot Yoga calls my name in the fall. Yoga is so necessary for not only your body but your mind. It is a great way to increase strength, gain flexibility and tone your body as well as keep your mind centered and focused, all in one nice HOT place. Namaste.
My favorite is resistance/strength/weight training, whatever you call it, (I am that chick in the weight room with the big boys). I love resistance training is all seasons. You can throw on your scarf, hat, coat and gloves and make it to your local gym or you can simply move your furniture around and get busy in the comfort of your own home. Resistance training is so important! It is not just for body builders! It improves muscle strength and tone; it boosts your energy, improves your mood, and increases your self-esteem. I can go on and on about the benefits of strength training but the bottom line is, pick up a pair of dumbbells, a resistance band and a ball and you have a total home gym.
There you have it three things you need to keep you in shape for the fall: Spin for cardio, it builds your endurance and burns fat. Hot Yoga, for your flexibility and focus and resistance training for building your muscle strength and overall total body wellness.
Check out your local fitness centers to find the nearest classes near you and fall into shape with me!
You can read more about Elizabeth Morrell in a recent article here in Courageous Women Magazine.