Don’t go into hibernation just because it’s autumn
THE END OF SUMMER DOESN’T MEAN IT’S TIME TO SLOW DOWN, SAYS FITNESS EXPERT RUTH LYNCH
ITH summer (almost) a distant memory and as the shops start to fill up with knitwear, it can be tempting to slow down at this time of year.
However, as we step into autumn, the cooler weather can actually be better for staying active as a family. As this summer has been so hot many haven’t been able to get out and about as much they wanted, for fear of overheating, burning or just getting worn out.
Here are our top tips for how to get active and stay safe as the days get shorter and the weather gets cooler.
FRIENDLY HIKING
HIKING is a great way to see the seasons changing, watching nature move from summer into autumn before your very eyes. With conkers to gather, blackberries to eat and leaves to kick, walking is a fun, family-friendly activity for any age and ability.
In recent years, what was once seen as an activity for older people has been made popular by the likes of the Kardashians’ and Hadids’ Insta-friendly wanders through the LA landscape.
It may not be quite as glamorous as the Hollywood hills, but Britain is home to some of the most spectacular hiking and walking trails in Europe. You don’t need to tackle a mountain, as most cities and towns have large parks or are close to easy country walks. Unless you’re tackling some of the higher peaks all you’ll need is comfy clothing, supportive shoes and a waterproof coat (this is the UK after all!).
Stay safe: Make sure you know the area or take a map, keep together and to known paths; tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back. Take snacks, a drink and fully charged phone with you. A small first aid kit is good to have too.
HORSING AROUND
MOST people associate outdoor activities with summer, but the truth is hot weather, jodhpurs, boots and helmets don’t exactly make for the most comfortable of days out. Why not use the cool but sunny autumn days to get in the saddle and explore your local area. Not just an easy way to get around, horse-riding is a great exercise for strengthening your core and helps with balance and co-ordination in children.
Most local riding stables will offer beginner or ‘back in the saddle’ classes for both adults and children, making it the perfect way to try something new together.
Stay safe: Go with a registered provider who can prove they have insurance (check their website or ask when you book). Only ride on ponies that look healthy and happy, make sure you’re fitted with the right size helmets.
RUNNING IN NUMBERS
AUTUMN is one of the best seasons for running – warm enough to be enjoyable, but cool enough not to make it dangerous/a chore. As the leaves begin to turn, autumn runs can also be some of the most beautiful you’ll take all year.
Running alone can be tough for a beginner, but it doesn’t have to be. Joining a local running club can be the ideal way to ease into running and meet like-minded people.
Local clubs have runs and groups for all ages and abilities, and have coaches or leaders on hand to give you pointers and push you when the going gets tough.
Stay safe: Group running is a great way to stay safe as the evenings get darker. Reflective clothing or lights on your gear are essential as the nights draw in. If you’re heading out alone, stick to well know routes with plenty of lighting, keep your phone with you and let people know where you’re going/when you’ll be back.
FEEL THE CHA CHA CHA-ANGES
WITH Strictly back on the TV there’s never been a better excuse to get your dancing shoes on. There are plenty of dancing lessons all over the country in gyms, sports halls, schools and even above pubs!
If you don’t feel like a formalised dance class, or aren’t really into learning long, choreographed routines, why not go to a danceinspired fitness class like Zumba, Clubbercise or Balletcore?
Stay safe: If you haven’t danced before don’t try and bust out your best Beyoncé routine straight away – slow, steady and warmed up! Pick a class that has a registered instructor and always tell them of any health conditions you might have – if they don’t feel they can accommodate or make changes for your health, then pick another class.
HEAD INDOORS
BUT if all that’s still not convinced you out from the warmth and safety of your own four walls, there are plenty of ways to stay active as the nights draw in.
How about heading to your local sports centre for a game of squash or taking a bit of me time with a relaxing yoga class? You could even take advantage of the quieter public swimming pools for a few splashfree lengths now the kids are all well and truly back at school.
And if you still can’t be tempted, why not pound the aisles at your local shopping centre and get the Christmas shopping done early for once? Strap on your pedometer and see how many steps you can get in, the higher the better!
■ Ruth Lynch, head of health, fitness and communities at Life Leisure Sports Trust, lifeleisure.net.