Slam balls in the Sand
Have you noticed? Fall is in the air! School is back in full swing, the leaves are turning and the temperatures are starting to cool down.
Fall is a perfect time to get outside and enjoy being active in nearly perfect temperatures. It is easier on the body to be active outdoors when the temperatures are mild. We are between the uncomfortable heat of summer and the chill of winter, so it makes sense to take advantage of the weather and head outdoors!
Another important reason to be outside right now is the vitamin D factor. If you live north of Atlanta, it is impossible to get enough vitamin D from the sun between the months of October and March, regardless of how much time you spend outside. 1 Do your body a favor and give it a vitamin D boost by spending some time being active outdoors!
Here are some fun and healthy activities that you can enjoy while taking advantage of the daylight and nice weather that we have left:
Rake Leaves: This is a surprisingly strenuous activity! It will get your heart rate up and give your upper body a serious workout if you go at it with gusto! Enlist the kids to help you, and rake and play in the leaves for an afternoon. You will be healthier and your yard will look great!
Tip: be sure to change your raking hands (right to lefty, lefty to righty) every 5 minutes or so to maintain balance through the body.
Take a walk: the best way to enjoy the brilliant colors of fall is to take a long walk. It’s a great way to see the beauty up close and personal. Places to walk include nearby parks, nature preserves or hiking trails at a lake.
Ride bikes, play touch football, and get involved in other sports: The cooler temperatures are invigorating. This is a great time to pick up some new fun activities or resurrect some activities that you might have neglected for a while. Bike riding can a blast! Grab some friends and take a spin!
Visit Farmers’ Markets: It’s harvest time for many foods, so head out to your local farmers’ markets for some fresh and healthy selections. If you find a great deal on bulk items, consider bringing it home and putting it in the freezer for later.
Caution: Just because it came from a farmer’s market, doesn’t mean it’s organic…Get to know your farmer.
Find a Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze: if you are up for a little adventure, how about visiting a corn maze! This is a great way to get in a good walk while exercising your brain as well! Often, you will find local farms that offer both a corn maze to enjoy plus a chance to choose your own pumpkin. Go with friends to make it even more fun!
Enjoy your fall by taking the time to get outdoors and enjoy the daylight and nice weather that we have left! Soak up some vitamin D and make some memories with friends!
