Running In Autumn

There is something about the onset of autumn which stirs the senses; the closing days of summer are still hot, though getting shorter; a caressing breeze envelopes you at mid-day, yet includes a hint of coolness that carries a promise of change in the air. 

The first trees to bud in spring are now the first to change color in fall.

We are blessed to live in such a beautiful country that graces us with all four seasons, with fall being, perhaps the most beautiful, especially in Central Canada.

The scent of composting leaves is as familiar as it is comforting, as if reassuring us the world will return to normal in due course and not to lose sight of maintaining a healthy mind, body, and spirit. 

To be out there on a hike, run or walk is worthy of celebration. Outside on the trails is where you can contemplate plans for tomorrow or next week, or the next five years. 

The air is cleaner and it beckons; years from now you will remember the best parts of a hike, of what you felt, or viewed, and even what the weather was like because a scent in the air reminded you of a perfect day long ago.

As the great American baseball icon, Yogi Berra might say, fall feels like déjà vu all over again. And if you happen to own a dog that you plan to take with you to the Great Outdoors, not even a juicy steak bone could deter it from going with you. 

For them, it’s like they died and went to heaven; they’re with their beloved owner, they get to explore for a couple of hours, and dinner when they get home. 

You think they’re going to forget any of that? It’s a perfect dog day and not too shabby for us, either.

Getting regular exercise outdoors can be the key to feeling balanced and confident while enduring the Covid-19 pandemic. Lacing up your shoes, getting some fresh air in the trails can pay dividends to your mental well being. 

While the rhythm of crunching leaves underfoot lulls you into a temporary state of catatonic bliss, your senses go into overdrive from the annual majesty of sights, sounds and scents of the season, evoking a large dose of inspiration, knowing full well I would be poorer for having missed it.

If you are thinking of starting a running program, fall is inarguably a great time to start, with cooler temperatures helping your body to better absorb the work, while feeling more refreshed afterward than you might after a hot summer run. 

It’s a combination of all the best elements of running that make it a compelling thing to do at this time of year.

If you’re now convinced to get out there and start running for the first time, it’s best to set a realistic goal according to your fitness level. 

Follow a proper program and invest in shoes and some gear suited for the weather conditions. Also, set a reward system to help motivate you to accomplish your goals.

Here are some other tips to help you get started:

1. Explore new routes that are challenging with hills and longer distances. This will help improve your performance through increased stamina and endurance.
2. Carry ID with you and always let someone know where you are running.
3. Stay hydrated; bring water or energy drink throughout the year.
4. For overall fitness, follow a healthy nutrition guide; get plenty of sleep.
5. Shoes should never be tight on your toes. Have enough room for natural swelling – one-half inch, which occurs naturally as your mileage increases.

The weekly Fitness Friday is submitted by Christine Blanchette that you can follow on Youtube Channel as well as her Twitter channel.

Thanks again and STAY SAFE!!!!