As the seasons change, it’s no longer summer, but not yet winter. Fall can be a time when exercise routines can waiver.

It becomes too cold to continue with many of the summer activities you may enjoy. You may even get a little blue, knowing that summer has come to an end and your favorite activities are over for a while.

Fall brings with it many other opportunities. Here are a few tips to keep you active and ready to embrace this beautiful season:

1. Take it inside AND outside

As the temperatures begin to drop, head back into the health club. Don’t miss out on a workout just because autumn is in the air.

Take a group-exercise class or work out with a training group. Mix it up! Fall is the perfect time to enjoy the beautiful Grand Valley.

With so many options to choose from like mountain biking and hiking, there is no reason not to get out and enjoy the scenery of vibrant colors. Go exploring. Hike a new trail or visit a park.

Raking leaves or doing some fall outdoor yard work is a great way to get the heart pumping.

Spending time out in nature and the fresh air does wonders for your mind as well as your body.

2. Layer your fall clothing

Learning proper fundamentals of layering for fall and winter activities can mean the difference between comfort or misery. It is important to layer while exercising in chilly weather. You may feel cold at first and then as your body warms up, you may feel overdressed.

Follow the “three layers” rule. Your first layer that is next to your skin should be made of a moisture wicking fabric, often called DriFit. This fabric wicks moisture away from your skin, so you don’t feel wet and cold. The second layer should be a warmth layer, and the third layer should be a protective layer, such as a windbreaker or something water resistant, depending on the weather.

Don’t forget your sunglasses.

3. Don’t be blue

Many of us get the winter blues as the weather gets colder and the days get shorter.

Waking up in the dark may tempt you to hit the snooze alarm, but don’t do it. With less sunlight you may want to avoid the blues with increased Vitamin D. Eat foods rich in this vitamin, such as fish, egg yolks and mushrooms.

Remember, exercise releases the body’s endorphins that enhance a good mood and feelings of happiness.

4. Watch the treats

It’s been said the average American gains between five and nine pounds during the holiday season. This begins at Halloween and continues until the New Year.

Halloween is a time when you stockpile bags of candy from the store for the one evening when a few trick-or-treaters may come to your door. The day after, there is leftover candy, and the kids have a sugar source that will surely fuel unhealthy eating habits into the holidays.

Then, people just put off losing weight until their New Year’s Resolution. You need to remember that Halloween is just one day.

5. Plan ahead for the holidays

Take out a calendar early – like now! Mark off time for exercise each day. Schedule a little exercise between things on busy days; 10 minutes is better than nothing.

Keep your goals in mind throughout the holiday season. The time you allow for yourself through exercise, sleep, nutrition and organization will make the busyness of the season more manageable. Remember to eat right and buy healthy snacks.

Don’t fall into the trap of “I’ll start after the new year.” This is really saying that you will find an excuse no matter what time of the year. There will always be birthdays, parties and special events.

Enjoy the change of seasons! Fall is a perfect time to keep fitness routines intact. Instead of using the cooler weather as an excuse NOT to exercise, try using it as an excuse TO exercise!

Happy Fall!

Paula and Dale Reece own Crossroads Fitness Centers in Grand Junction with a downtown location at 225 N. Fifth St. and north location at 2768 Compass Drive. For more information, call (970) 242-8746 or visit the website crossroadsfitness.com.