Exercising in Fall

Now that the leaves are starting to turn colors and the air is becoming a little nippier, it is time to start thinking about taking our exercise indoors.

As much as I love riding my bike, I have had to put on gloves a couple of mornings. To say that I am addicted to bike riding, is an understatement. It has been a really great summer of riding and racking up miles. But all things must come to an end as seasons change.

Also, the next few months are when people start to pack on pounds,especially the dreaded Holiday "20". Pounds that start to come on from just looking at your Mama's turkey & dressing, sweet potato pie, corn casserole, etc. That time between Thanskgiving and New Year's when we overindulge like crazy.

I am determined to go into Holiday season slim and not gain a pound.

A couple of strategies that I intend to use:

1) Take a new class (Pilates, Bikram Yoga, Zumba). Working out with people helps keep you motivated, especially, if they are worse off than you. It helps you to push harder to maintain what you have. I just started taking a Bikram Yoga class with my friend Sarah and I love it!!!!

2) Try all the fall vegetables: Butternut Squash makes an amazing soup. Zucchini parmesan tastes like eating meat. Try one meatless meal a week (fish, salad, Black Bean Chipotle Burger by Morningstar)

3) Walk, Bike, Run. The leaves are changing colors, neighbors are putting up decorations, etc. If the kids can still play outside, so can we. I plan to ride my bike until it gets below 40 degrees. Especially, has my husband has bought me a hitch and a 4 bike carrier. We now drive to the lake, trails, etc. Also, my sister and I will be starting to train for a 5K.

Health is so important for a great quality of live. So, don't be a couch potato, start being active today. I will tell you, I am so proud of my yoga body. As, Jada Pinkett Smith stated in Essence, we have to start loving our body, every inch.

Take care and enjoy Fall and Winter. I will continue to write on fun ways to exercise during the next few months.

Peace and Love,

Sandals