(8/2018) So far this Spring and Summer have presented us with unusual weather. Sometimes a lot of rain and sometimes overwhelming heat and humidity. The weather can affect how often people exercise, what kind of exercise they do and even prevent them from keeping up with their regular routine. Continuing with your regular exercise is important for health, weight, emotional and all over well being. I knew this before but was reminded of it on TV the other week. I watched a news program that pointed out how weather conditions can dictate if people exercise or not.

Spring and Fall don't give us as much of a challenge as Summer and Winter do. People usually like Spring because they want to get in shape for swimsuits, shorts and summer activities. It may bring some showers but we tend to keep going with the hopes of getting in shape. Fall weather is cool and being outside is nice. The leaves are changing and the air is crisp and gets us moving. During these two seasons it is not as difficult to stay in your daily or weekly exercise mode.

Winter can present a problem if you are a person who likes to run outside or play sports that can not be done in a foot of snow. This is the time you will want to find a second activity that will keep up your level of exercise while inside. This may be a good time to look for a group to join or form one of your own. Basketball, swimming or bowling are just a few of the activities that will keep you going during the cold winter months. Belonging to a group may also help with the blues some people develop during the long, cold days of winter. Being social is an important part of life and happiness.

Now that I have given you a few suggestions for the other seasons of the year, here are a few for the season we are presently in. Summer heat and humidity can not only make us tired and sluggish but may also prevent us from getting outside. The news report I heard stated that people in hot areas don't keep up their exercise routine as well as people in areas that have a more consistent temperature and weather pattern. Our area of the country has a full array of cold, hot and nice weather. Sometimes summer hampers our daily routine. If you are one of those people that just can't stand to be outside in the heat, I completely understand. I'm sure you want to maintain the achievements you have made with your exercise so you need to find some activities you enjoy and can do inside or at a cooler time of the day. Of course, I suggest strength training which can be done year round and keeps you in great shape. Strength training helps with weight control, strong muscles and bone, controlling and maintaining good numbers for cholesterol, blood pressure and sugar levels. Along with lifting weights you can swim, either indoors or out, go to a Spin or Cardio class, walk in a cool mall or use a treadmill or stationary bike in your own home. All these can be done inside when the weather is too hot or rainy to be outside and you can go out when the weather is nice and continue your routine.

These are just a few suggestions to help you keep your exercise program going through all types of weather. The most important thing to remember is not to miss your workouts. When you get off schedule and miss a few times it is unbelievable how much progress you lose. Consistency is the key to keep making progress and maintaining what you have accomplished. I always welcome your ideas and suggestions and enjoy hearing innovative ways people keep themselves motivated. Exercise is important all year and each season presents it's own challenges and benefits. Remember, Keep Moving, you'll be glad you did.

If you have any questions or need help getting started, please call me 717-334-6009, or via e-mail at fitness@emmitsburg.net