(10/2021) This summer has been very hot and humid but relief is on the way. We still have some hot days in September and October but nothing like the heat and humidity we faced during the summer months. The heat may have prevented you from following your exercise routines and it is very easy to get off track quickly if you miss a few days. Hopefully you were able to continue with most of your exercise each day but if you did get out of the habit now's the time to recommit.

Fall is the perfect time to set a schedule and commit to a steady exercise routine. The weather is not as hot as summer and eventually it will become crisp and comfortable weather for a run, walk, bike ride or whatever you decide to do outside. I realize the kids are back in school so that could mean different routines for different people and families. If you like to go for a walk or run by yourself maybe you can work that in early in the morning or at lunch time.

If you exercise with your family, evenings are a great time to share the days events. It gets dark early but you may be able to go when the kids get home from school. That may help them decompress from their school day and prepare for your families evening. Even when it does get dark you can still go for a walk under the streetlights or at an inside track. Where there's a will, there's a way and I'm sure you will find what works for you.

During the winter months when daylight is limited it is harder to get the vitamin D we need. Vitamin D is important for many body functions and helps with our immune system. Getting outside in the morning helps you get your daily dose of vitamin D and limits the harsh rays from the sun. Sun protection is always important. We can get vitamin D from foods like leafy greens and many other types of food.

If you do a little research you may be surprised that with what you eat you may or may not be getting the amount you need. Of course, you can always take a supplement and that may be needed, especially during the cold winter months. Supplements are very helpful but if you can get your vitamins in the food you eat that is even better.

Whatever exercise you decide to do is great. The important thing is to do something. I have said this many times before but I think it is so important that I will say it again, choose an exercise that you like and will stick with. If you get bored with one thing, look for something else and you can change it up. Try to pick an exercise that your whole family will like and that way when one person doesn't feel like exercising that day the rest of the family will encourage them to participate. I know it's hard to get out there sometimes but usually you feel better after you do.

Fall and winter are coming whether we like it or not so try to put a positive spin on your exercise routine. When we have something to look forward to the things we are less enthusiastic about are not as hard to face. Remember to Keep Moving!