Fall fitness: get-psyched guide for

Jet, August 23, 2004

Summer may be slipping away, but before you pack up your tank tops, flip-flops and your hopes of getting in shape, just think, you have a whole new season to make a fresh start at fitness this fall. So shake out your sweaters, shake out those muscles and get psyched to exercise!

* Change it. Got a craving to be a Kung Fu master, disco queen or king of the tennis court? Use the season of change as inspiration to change your flex life. Learn something new. Do something different. Pull out the Yellow Pages or surf the net to find activities in your area that pique your interest. Sign up for dance lessons, venture into that martial arts dojo, learn that backhand stroke once and for all. You'll look great, feel great, and most importantly, have a great time.

* Slow down. No need to be a cowboy or cowgirl that first time out the gate. Exercising too hard, too soon sets you up for strains, sprains and other painful injuries. During those first few fitness sessions, go slow and only do what your body can handle. And always stretch your muscles before, during and after you exercise, which increases flexibility and reduces your risk of injury. A proper workout should leave you a little tender the next day, not debilitated.

* Dress up. Don't hide inside when the temp drops. Jog on the outdoor track, rollerblade in the park, ride your bike around the block, take a brisk walk in the brisk air. Just dress for the cooler weather. Wear layers to chase away the autumn chill: inner layers (underwear, thermals) to absorb sweat; middle layers (sweat pants, leggings, T-shirts) to keep the chest, arms and legs toasty; and waterproof jackets and windbreakers to block the elements. On extra cool days, put on a cap, bandanna or hood because you lose heat from your head. And don't forget to shed the layers when needed.

* Come in. When the weather's too bad for an outdoor workout, just bring it in. Take your power walks inside shopping malls and museums. Skate your way in shape at the indoor roller rink. Sweat to a workout video in the comfort of your living room. Join a health club with an indoor track, pool, tennis court or rock-climbing wall so that you can enjoy warm-weather sports long into the winter.

* Work out. Any physical activity is good activity for your body. That includes chores, especially outdoor tasks. Raking leaves, walking the dog or clearing icy paths from that first frost can help you stay active this season. But it doesn't have to be all work and no play. Walk through a tree-lined path to enjoy the beautiful fall colors. Ice skate at the outdoor rink. Hook up the volleyball net in the backyard. Shoot some hoops in the driveway. Rake up those leaves into a huge pile and jump in. Who cares if the neighbors are watching? Invite them to join you; they probably could use the exercise.