outdoor running tips for the fall season

Brr! There is definitely a nip in the air. In fact, some mornings, you can even see your breath. Could it be? Fall is truly here to stay. Leaves are scattered on the ground, the temperatures are dropping, and more of us are choosing to stay indoors. Don’t let the weather get you down or prevent you from getting in a great workout. Start running! This form of exercise can be incredibly beneficial, boasting reduced stress levels and improved health. Plus it can be done throughout the fall season. Ready to get started? These outdoor running tips will keep you safe and healthy.

Run On Well-Travelled Paths. There are tons of places that you can go for a run. From sidewalks to parks, trails, and everything in between. Now that fall is here, be sure to choose your location wisely. It is always better to run in areas that are populated and well travelled. Why? If you hurt yourself, slip, or fall, there will always be someone nearby. This is especially important as the fall season creeps closer to the winter months. Icy conditions, snow, or slush can make spills more likely. So stay where the people are. Other reasons to run in more travelled areas? Trails and pathways tend to be better marked and better lit. That means added safety, which is always a good thing.

Dress Appropriately For the Weather. Running in the spring and summer is a cinch. You don’t have to worry about your attire. A t-shirt and pair of shorts is all you need. Now? What you wear can dramatically impact your overall experience. Not to mention your comfort level. So put some thought into what you choose. Your best option is to layer. That way, if you start to feel warm you can remove a layer…. rather than give up on your run altogether. Something to keep in mind? Aim to dress slightly warmer than the actual temperature requires. That way you are warm when you start your run. From there, simply remove extra layers as necessary. The most important thing to do is listen to your body. Overheating can cause you to feel sick or fatigued. So pay attention and make the most of those layers.

Don’t Wait to Change Post-Run. You did it! Your daily run is complete. Now that you are back inside you probably want to slump down on the couch and never move again. Resist that temptation. It is important to change your clothes immediately following a fall run. The reason behind this is simple. Your body’s temperature will start to drop as soon as you stop running. If you stay in damp clothes you can actually cause harm to your body. It can lead you to catch a cold or feel chilly long after you have come back inside. Be sure to change right away and grab yourself a warm cup of tea. After that you can relax on the couch for a while. Guilt free.

Running isn’t exclusively reserved for spring and summer. You can enjoy this workout during the fall (and even winter) season. All it takes is a bit of extra thought before – and after – you head out. What are you waiting for? Grab those sneakers.

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Will you go running this fall? Share your own tips in the comment section!