Labor Day usually represents the closing of the summer season. It also signifies a time of new beginnings.
With the fall comes many changes. The weather starts to cool, the kids are back to school, sport seasons end and new ones begin and, for many, a sigh of relief is breathed as the daily schedule becomes a bit more predictable.
With the fast-paced schedule of summer slowly fading, this is a great opportunity to make a new commitment to yourself and to your wellness.
As you sketch out your fall calendar, make sure to prioritize time for your wellness, as maybe a few more hours have opened up for you to take advantage of.
Keep in mind, exercise doesn't need to be a huge time commitment. Look at activity in terms of half hour increments.
Try to wake a half an hour before the kids and get your exercise early in the day, or head out well before the bus arrives and power walk to the bus stop.
Or, include your kids in your efforts. Engage in games and activities with them after school. It helps them burn off some pent up energy from the school day and you get the extra exercise, too - not to mention quality family time.
Don't apply too many rules to your fitness, just do something you like and do it daily or at a minimum, three times a week.
Often we find ourselves in a rut, exercise included. The new season is a great opportunity to try something different.
If you've spent most of the summer running, try biking. If you've had an itch to start weight training or a yoga class, now is the time.
Get out of your old routine to jump start your results and refresh mentally. Remember, the rule of thumb is to change exercise variables about every six weeks.
Chances are your schedule is not unique. Find a friend with the same schedule and get together. There is strength in numbers, and it can help you stay on your new fitness track. Hold each other accountable and progress toward your goals together.
Exercise can be effective, fun and social, and maybe a little competitive, too.
Don't wait for the New Year to set goals. There's no better time than the present. Put some thought into what you really want to accomplish and aim for dates like Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas.
By getting focused and started now, you'll be far ahead of the New Year resolution crowd, and maybe even a role model. Why put it off another day? Start feeling better now.
Use this new season as a time to recommit to your personal wellness. Take advantage of the steadier schedule of fall and treat yourself to consistent exercise with renewed energy and enthusiasm.
Romagna is an instructor in the Department of Health, Wellness and Recreation at the University of Dubuque, and owner of Natural Fit Inc. Contact Jim at [email protected].
(c) 2008 Telegraph - Herald (Dubuque). Provided by ProQuest LLC. All rights Reserved.
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