3 Alternatives to Exercise this Fall

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Because sometimes you don't want to HIIT it when the leaves change.

I have the most difficulty staying motivated and dedicated to my workout routine when the season changes, and it becomes chilly, snuggling weather. Rather than beat myself up about it, I normally turn to some alternative ways to boosting my heart rate and those wonderful endorphins. And while we don't count calories over here, these activities sure to burn some energy. Luckily all you need are your comfiest pants and maybe a yummy latte afterwards (no shame in the PSL game). Can I get a yasssss? 

1. Take a walk or hike.

Not an arms-pumping pace but a leisurely stroll under the orange tipped trees. Maybe pick up some fallen leaves or snap a picture of how small you are compared to the tall branches above you. My favorite part is that edge between feeling lost in your own private world and really being just off the usual path. Grab a friend to catch up and enjoy the scenery with or walk alone and leave your phone on silent, so you can truly get caught up in nature. 

2. Dance like wild. 

Hurricane Matthew is blowing up the East coast, so maybe you won't be able to even leave the house this weekend. In that case, I recommend throwing on some good music, escaping to your favorite room in the house, and putting a little pep in your step. Whether you're dancing like Kerry Washington and Scott Foley in Scandal to Don't You Worry 'Bout a Thing or like Beyoncé in Single Ladies, move your booty and enjoy yourself. 

3. Clean clean clean. 

Coming from someone who generally likes to clean, I find this relaxing and a good sweat sesh (vacuums are heavy, man!). Since it's time to warm the house up and stay in more, enjoy where you live and clean up a little. Your body will be all the good kinds of sore, and you can wake up to fresh smelling sheets and clean floors. Treat yourself to a candle afterwards and make your home even cozier! 

 

+How do you fit in exercise when the weather cools down?  

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How To :: 3 Easy Tips for Working Out During the Holidays (bonus free printable!)

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Sometimes working out sucks.

Contrary to popular belief, however, working out isn't meant to make you cringe in fear or push it off until the latest hour of the day. It's supposed to be enjoyable, fun, and something you look forward to during your week. It can be challenging & intense, don't get me wrong. But it's not supposed to be terrifying.

If you've ever had a difficult time planning a schedule or sticking to one, you're not alone! Think back to your New Year's Resolutions. Was exercising more on that list? Maybe you've stuck with it somewhat or maybe you haven't. No worries. It might be the end of the year when the mad rush of crazy schedules is at it's peak, but that doesn't mean you can't find your new favorite workout. Last year, I fell in love with Barre3 in an attempt to procrastinate studying for finals and decrease my stress levels. I've been doing it three times a week ever since!

Exercising has been known to elevate the mood thanks to a flood of endorphins. It helps you sleep better at night. Exercise makes you feel confident and sexy in your body, because you're getting in touch with your power and strength. It's been known to boost memory retention and can help fight off illness. This last point has one major caveat: too much exercise can lead to intense fatigue and a suppressed immune system - rest days are important, so take them! I aim for and recommend at least 2 days of rest a week. Exercise, when done right, gives you more energy and simply makes you happier.

Read on for 3 simple tips for working out during the holidays ...

During the holiday season working out still kind of sucks & almost seems impossible. Here's how to do it:

1. Ink it in.

Just like you schedule appointments, book workouts into your calendar with ink (or swear never to delete them off Google Calendar). When it's written down with a specific date and time, it becomes as important as the working lunch or client consult. At the beginning of the week, pen in the specific dates, times, & types of workouts you'll be doing over the next seven days. For example: Monday at 6:15; in the gym for an hour.

2. Make it fun.

Like I said above, workouts aren't meant to make you hide in fear. They can be intense, work your muscles to the core, and leave you sore the next day, but if you're crying at the thought of your next session or don't enjoy the burn while you're doing it, maybe your workout isn't the best it could be for you right now. What we're drawn to changes over time, and what works for some might not work for others. If you normally do crossfit but now really want a calmer pace, take up some yoga or barre. If you're looking for more cardio in addition to your Vinyasa classes, try a meditative run (see the download below). Make it something that works for YOU, not your best friend or brother.

3. Be kind to yourself.

It's a really freaking busy time of the year. If you're someone who normally exercises regularly and now you're struggling to fit it into your schedule, try not to think all or none. If 60 minute workouts (just as a comparison, not a 'best length' recommendation) don't fit into your calendar, and you only have time for 10 minutes, then a 10 minutes workout is great! You'll still get the energy needed to power through the endless list of holiday to-do's and parties. Ten minutes a day will have you ready to rock those pretty holiday outfits you can't wait to put on. In the printable below, you'll find a 10 minute yoga flow & tools for a meditative run that can easily be applied to walking.

If you don't have time to fit exercising into your schedule, don't beat yourself up. Life is far more than sweating out toxins. You've still got it regardless, so flaunt that hot body of yours with a bright smile and cheery vibe.

Happy happy, everyone. And for those celebrating, Happy Hanukkah! Xx.

 

To celebrate the holiday season with movement, I made you this free printable :: click the image to download & print!

Like what you see? It's part of the new, free 7 page Healthy Holidays Guide.

Want a copy? Get it delivered to your inbox on Friday, December 11th when you fill out the form below.

P.S.S.S. Have you checked out all of the
other places Emily's spreading the Great Vibes?