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29 Aug 2008 06:44 PM

Getting Fit Before the First Flake Falls

by Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger

So many people wait until New Year's Eve to make a resolution to get into better shape. While it makes sense that you would want to start the new calendar year will a new goal I never understood why anyone would want to start working out in the dead of winter when the weather is at its worst. Personally, I think fall is a much better time of year to begin a fitness routine. Not only is the weather spectacular (warm, sunny days followed by cool evenings and gorgeous fall colors), but also by starting to workout now you will have good habits in place during the holiday season.

If you are really hung up on the "new year" aspect, consider September the start of a new season---the back-to-school season (and a new school year) is a great time to rethink and restart a workout regime. Why wait until January and the beginning of a new calendar year when you can make time to exercise now?

If you are reluctant to start moving now consider these motivators:

Workout with a Friend. The beauty of exercise routines is that they don't have to be executed alone. Find a friend who shares the same (or has similar) fitness goals as you do and partner up. Having someone to help you stay motivated will go a long way to ensure you stick with your designated program. As we all know boredom is the number one killer of exercise routines. Working out with a friend can make burning calories fun. Plus, you can use your exercise time to catch up on each other's lives.

Time. Fitness experts will be the first to tell you that it only takes 30 days to make fitness a habit. What's more, it only takes between 30 to 60 minutes per day to see and feel the benefits of moderate exercise. There's no excuse to put off what you can do today until tomorrow and by supplementing cardiovascular workouts with weight training you can diversify your exercise regimen and keep things fresh and exciting as fall turns into winter.

Variety. As I touched on in the last point it's important to maintain a well-rounded fitness regimen. Aerobic activity such as running or bicycling is great for your heart, but it's also important to include some resistance training to your exercise routine.

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Learn more about Michele Cheplic

Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism.

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