If I've said it once (LOL), I've said it probably hundreds of times...I hate to see summer ending.
It's no secret I'm totally (hopelessly, if you will) in love with the summer season, and pretty much every aspect of it. Yes...the heat (even the humidity), the long days and the joy being outside without needing to think about layers.
(sigh)
But, I also respect if it was summer year-round, I might not appreciate it as much.
That being said, this time of year is tricky. We've already begun the summer-to-fall transitioning, and there are a few key items that play a huge part in making this annual "right of passage" a little more bearable.
Thus, here's my top-5 list of Favorite Fitness Must Haves for Fall:
Hands-down the creme de la creme would be arm warmers. Whomever invented these should have won the fitness equivalent of the Nobel Peace Prize. Probably my favorite running outfit, especially this time of year, is a tank top with shorts and arm warmers. The arm warmers are a great option on those cool mornings when a tank top (or even a short-sleeved top) isn't quite warm enough on its own but a long-sleeved top will be too hot. The arm warmers are easily rolled-down, or peeled off (and tied around ones waist) if you get too warm. I've even frequently used them for early-morning bike rides, or layered them under a wind breaker jacket, because they're easier to remove than a long-sleeved shirt would be.
Another key player as I transition to fall is a simple lightweight headband. It's not cold enough for fleece headbands yet, but a "summer" one will do nicely over ones ears if it's a cold morning or there's a nasty breeze blowing. Again, these work well for any outdoor activity, whether you're running, walking, or biking.
Even when the temps aren't sub-freezing, a thin pair of gloves will come in handy until you've had a chance to acclimate to the colder air. After a couple weeks of sub-60F temps, my hands are usually comfortable. Those first few chilly runs, though, feel pretty frigid in comparison to the warmer weather that has just vacated the premises.
Maybe it's a denial thing, but I try to stay in my shorts until the temps are approaching freezing. My best strategy is to wear knee socks (or compression sleeves with wool hiking socks). For whatever reason, just having my legs partially covered does the trick, LOL, in fighting the impending falling temps.
Finally, with the dwindling daylight, my morning runs have already gotten pretty dark, so a light source is crucial. I'm usually all decked-out with my Noxgear vest and Knuckle Lights. So what if I look like a Christmas tree? Safety is paramount, and it's wise to not only see where you're going, but to also be seen by others.
So, these are my favorites. Obviously, there are many other items that others may prefer (capri-length leggings, headlamps, etc.), but these are my five favorite go-tos.
How about you? Do you have a few favorites (or five?) that help you ease into the fall season?
I'm also linking this with Michelle, Renee, Darlene, Jenn and Zenaida for the Fit Five Friday Link-up.
Oh, I love that idea with knee socks! I hate switching into long trousers too, but I've never thought of the kneesock combo. Brilliant!
ReplyDeleteI wore my calf-length capris for the first time yesterday. It's definitely getting cooler!
Yeah, I've had the capri's on for a few early morning walks, and they just feel so weird...I"m totally in denial!
DeleteWe agree totally. I've already worn my DIY arm warmers and knee socks - it was 49 this am...
ReplyDeletefor the m ost part I try to run in daylight... but I do use my knuckle lights when necessary (and noxgear)
I'm with you on staying in shorts for as long as possible! And also with you on using gloves as soon as I need to;-)
ReplyDeleteI hate that crossover from shorts to "full coverage." I'm just not ready!
DeleteI prefer to stay in shorts for as long as possible as well - I can usually make it to mid November if Ma Nature cooperates :)
ReplyDeleteYes, it's all on Momma N's shoulders, LOL! She need to play nice!
DeleteWell... not to rub it in, but I don't have a need for most of these. The one item I do where is gloves- when we get our"chilly" temperatures, I'll be out there wearing shorts and gloves. My hands get cold!
ReplyDeletei need to get a Noxgear vest. When it's dark I run with a clip-on light, but I should really be more visible.
The Noxgear vests are so nice! I love mine...it's light and very bright, and there are numerous options for solid colors or "pulsating" ones!
DeleteI hold on to my shorts as long as possible too. It does get cold here, for a short period of time, so I skip the arm warmers and go straight for long sleeves.
ReplyDelete