Get fit for fall

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Five ways to kick-start your health this autumn.

MAYBE you regret not savouring the sunny days of summer. Or perhaps you just dread the idea of the changing season.

Rather than letting the cooler weather get you down, why not use it to make a new commitment to get fit?

While most Canadians tend to make their health and fitness resolutions at the beginning of the New Year, experts say you’re more likely to stick to your vows of self-improvement if you make them beforehand.

Now is the time.

Here some ways to kick-start your health this fall:

RUN OR WALK FOR CHARITY

Even if you don’t consider yourself a runner, you can still feel like one when you participate in a walk or run for charity. September and October are full of such events, including: A Run Through History — happening Sept. 25 at Lower Fort Garry in support of the Variety Club; and Race For Your Heart — taking place on Oct. 1 in support of Hi-Speed Hounds, which provides homes for greyhound race dogs. For more information about local run/walk events, log onto the websites of the Manitoba Runners’ Association (www.mraweb.ca), Athletics Manitoba (www.athleticsmanitoba.com) or the Running Room (www.runningroom.com).

TAKE A TRAIL

Take yourself on a mini-vacation away from it all when you walk, run or cycle on a Winnipeg trail. Some of the best trails to explore this time of year are the ones filled with lush trees — just turning colour from the change of season. One to try: the Harte Trail, a 6.5-kilometre stretch of wilderness located on an old rail line in Charleswood.

Here you’ll see Siberian Elm and untamed shrubs left to wildly take over the landscape. For more information on Winnipeg trails, log onto the Winnipeg Trails Association at www.winnipegtrails.ca .

LAYER FOR WARMTH

Scorching 30 C temperatures graced Winnipeg just over a week ago; now the sudden crisp chill in the air is (mentally and physically) shocking your system. Don’t let the cool weather deter you from getting outside for your daily dose of exercise. Instead, layer your clothing so you stay warm when the mercury dips. If you layer correctly, you’ll be a bit cold when you first start your outdoor workout, but will soon feel a bit overdressed. Tips: Avoid cotton for the your first or base layer and opt instead for a light, weatherappropriate moisture-wicking fabric. For the mid/insulating layer, opt for something a bit looser than the base layer. The outer layer should block the wind and allow moisture to escape (think of a shell/jacket made of Gore-Tex). Control your body temperature by adding or removing layers as needed.

DINE ON THE LOCAL FALL HARVEST

If produce doesn’t usually impress you, paying a visit to the St. Norbert Farmers’ Market will change your perspective.

Every Saturday and Wednesday until the end of October, farmers sell the fruits (and vegetables) of their labour to the public. During September, sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, purple onions and wine-coloured beets are common sights at the market. Take home these nutrient-rich foods and cook up a dinner that will inspire you to eat and live healthfully (for more information about the market, log onto stnorbertfarmersmarket.ca).

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF FALL GYM PROGRAMS

Gym memberships may surge in the New Year, but fall is also a great time join a gym. Take advantage of the fact that you’re armed with determination to stay active through the fall and winter. Also pay attention to the new fall gym programs — and specials — many gyms are offering right now. If spending money on a gym membership isn’t for you, check out the city’s Leisure Guide (www.winnipeg.ca/ cms/recreation/leisureguide.stm).

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