Fall into a new routine

Most people equate the New Year or the cusp of bathing suit season with getting back into shape. But in Florida, the start of the fall season is the perfect time to mix up a dusty exercise routine, as unpredictable afternoon showers and boiling temperatures taper off.

Workout fanatics have been cooped up in the gym all summer long. Now, temperatures are finally making it possible to ditch the treadmill and stuffy weight room and take fitness on the road.

Feeling the burn outdoors has been proven to be more beneficial than working out inside. A recent study published in “Environmental Science and Technology” found that combining fitness and nature provided not only physical well-being but mental benefits as well. The study found that compared with exercising indoors, outdoor fitness was associated with “greater feelings of revitalization, increased energy and positive engagement, together with decreases in tension, confusion, anger and depression.” Study participants also said they were more likely to stick to an outdoor exercise regimen than an indoor one.

Exercising outside is also one of the most convenient ways to feel the burn. All that’s really needed is a pair of running shoes and a sidewalk to create the perfect fitness session. If jogging isn’t an option, bust out a jump rope or a pair of rollerblades. Introducing fresh air to a workout can mean marrying fitness and fun.

Researchers at the University of Essex found the benefits of outdoor exercise to be so powerful that it could be used to treat depression and mental illness. Outdoor walks were suggested to calm employees in stressful work environments and researchers even said outdoor activity could help youth offenders. The biggest effect was seen with exercise in an area that contained a body of water, such as a lake or river.

Create the ultimate mood trifecta by combining nature, exercise and friends. An article in “Everyday Health” said working out with buddies creates more motivation to get fit and a better-rounded, tougher workout session. Friends can share fitness knowledge and compete against one another.

Working exercise into the social calendar also kills two birds with one stone. Catch up with friends while getting in the day’s sweat session. Head to a nearby park for a game of volleyball, tennis or basketball or take a brisk walk with a pal. Fall is also a great time to dig the tent out of the garage and take a camping trip, which inspires many healthy physical activities such as biking and boating.

Exercise is good no matter where you do it or whom you do it with, but it’s always good to mix up a workout routine and a change of season is the perfect excuse to try something new.