October Is For Outdoors

I am really not sure what world I woke up in this morning.  I stumbled out of bed at 5:30am and shook off the aches from volleyball last night (no, we did not win and I don't wish to discuss it).  Here is the strange part - it was already a balmy 17 degrees here in Kelowna (that's right, I said balmy) and as I stepped onto my balcony to breath in the morning air, I had an overwhelming desire to lace up the running shoes and go for a run down to the lake, but alas I could not.

Why you may ask?  I'll tell you why.

It was still dark.  Burned by darkness!

This weather is supposed to last for the foreseeable future, so take advantage of it!  Even if its cooling off in your particular location, October is a great time to get outside and use nature's playground to spice up your workouts and try some new things.  Without the stifling summer heat and burning rays of the sun, you can really enjoy hiking, biking, and some amazing interval training - all in the Great Outdoors (minus John Candy and "big bear chase me".  Hopefully you have seen that movie and if not, rent it immediately.  It is an 80's classic.)

Here are a few tips to make the most out of your outdoor adventure:

1. Be sure to dress in layers.  It may be a little cooler when you first head out, but it won't take long for your body to heat up and you will want to peel off some clothes.  You will want those layers back as you start to cool down!
2. Choose your time and location carefully.  You may find the perfect place to enjoy that "au naturel" workout setting, but if you are in a place that is not well-lit, you could get caught by early darkness.  Not having proper visibility can be dangerous and opens you up to potential injury.
3. Find a friend to play with.  This is a great way to socialize with that pal you don't see often enough during your busy week while keeping fit.  It also provides a whole new set of partner exercise options that you can try.  The best part?  That nice, non-fat cappuccino or latté that you get to enjoy with some post-workout gossip!
4. Experiment with an open mind.  You would be surprised at how many different body weight exercises you can do outside.  Its so easy to get stuck in the gym rut where you think you are incapacitated without equipment in front of you and diagrams telling you what to do.  Playgrounds are fantastic and full of all kinds of challenges, not to mention the chance to be a kid again for a while!

Face it folks, we live in Canada.  Winter is coming soon and you WILL long for these days to play outside, so don't procrastinate another day!  Get off your ass, get geared up and get outside.  Your body, mind, and spirit will thank you.