Fall is the time of the year when the heat of summer subsides, the leaves turn, and the air is crisp. It’s a great time to be active outdoors before the winter chill arrives. Whether you are looking for family fun, fun with friends, or an activity by yourself - stay healthy this fall with a few of the activities listed below, provided by the Orthus Health Coaches.
1. Raking leaves: Raking leaves for 30 minutes can burn up to 400 calories, depending on your weight and speed of raking. Although it Is a chore, it’s vital for the autumn clean-up, so why not make it a fun exercise!
2. Apple picking: Doing something new will motivate you to get off the couch and get moving - and getting a healthy snack isn’t a bad way to spend time. Apples are full of antioxidants and fiber, which help battle against cardiovascular disease and cancer. In addition, you’ll burn about 200 calories while picking apples.
3. Browsing a pumpkin patch: Put the weights down and pick up a pumpkin instead! Not only is it fun to walk around a pumpkin patch and pick out the perfect one, but consistently squatting down and bending over picking up these heavy objects is a workout in disguise. In fact, you can burn 270 calories doing this for an hour!
4. Bike riding: Take advantage of the crisp and fresh fall air by going on a bike ride with your family, friends, or by yourself. Riding a bike is the perfect aerobic activity, which will improve your heart health as well as your respiratory system. Bike riding tones and defines every part of the body, and you can burn around 90 calories for every 20 minutes, depending on your weight.
5. Visiting your local farmer’s market: Fall is the perfect time for picking out new foods and items for you and your home. Farmer's markets are known for having the freshest, healthiest meats and veggies. This provides you with the opportunity to get out and walk around while exploring new and healthy food options that you may not find at your local grocery store.
6. Taking your indoor activities outside: Try changing your scenery! Get some fresh air and vitamin D by reading your favorite book outdoors. Natural sunlight not only nourishes you, but it also stimulates natural energy, promotes a better mood, and boosts your immune system. Try sitting outside in the mornings for just 20 minutes, but don’t forget your sunscreen!