Many of us are more than ready for those long-awaited cooler temperatures. You might be looking forward to getting cozy by the fire, but don’t overlook the outdoor autumn activities!
Follow these tips to stay active and enjoy a happy and healthy fall season.
Take advantage of the weather for outdoor activities.
The cooler fall weather is prime for getting active outside, with less risk of heat exhaustion.
- Adults should get at least 2½ hours of physical activity each week, while kids should get at least an hour every day.1
- Make it a family goal to explore area parks--an easy, free way to spend time outdoors and stay active.
- Find new walking or hiking trails within your area or go for a family bike ride.
- Check the forecast and wind chill before going out.
- Always dress in layers in this order: moisture-wicking, then warmth then protective.
- Be mindful of the earlier sunsets. Don’t run, walk or bike outside at night in high-traffic areas.
Visit your local orchard, pumpkin patch, or harvest festival.
Orchards and farms not only offer fun outdoor activities, but healthy seasonal ingredients too.
- Next time you carve pumpkins for jack-o-lanterns, save the insides.2
- Unsalted pumpkin seeds area good for your HDL cholesterol levels (the good kind!) and also help keep blood pressure down.
- One cup of pumpkin can give you 200% of your recommended daily vitamin A, which can lower cancer risk, improve eyesight, and soothe your skin.
- Pumpkin is also packed with potassium, fiber, vitamin C, vitamin E, iron and folate.
- Pumpkins aren’t just for pie. Challenge yourself to try pumpkin hummus, soup, puree and more.
Keep your summer garden growing through fall.
Gardening is a great way to make fresh produce exciting for kids, and an excellent way to get outdoor exercise.
- Brussel sprouts, carrots, broccoli, lettuce, spinach, peas and many other vegetables can be grown in fall.
- Protect against harmful chemicals, pests and equipment. Wear safety goggles, sturdy shoes and gloves to prevent skin irritation, cuts and infections.
1 https://www.cdc.gov/healthyplaces/healthtopics/parks.htm
2 https://www.webmd.com/diet/ss/slideshow-health-benefits-pumpkin
