Staying healthy and in great shape is more important than ever right now. Here are some tips to make sure you stay fit this Fall.

 

YMCA Fitness - Health Habits

 

Healthy Habits to Keep You Feeling Great

Fall is a season of change. The leaves are falling, and the weather is getting cooler. But fall also marks the start of cold and flu season. While there’s no surefire way to avoid illness at this time of year, you can adopt healthy habits that will keep you looking and feeling your best this fall.

 

Stay Active – Indoors or Out

Staying active is one of the best things you can do to keep your body feeling its best this fall. The holidays and cooler weather are upon us, and for many, this means indulging in treats and comfort foods. Maintaining a regular exercise routine can help you stay a healthy weight despite all the festivities.

Physical exercise can also help flush bacteria out of your respiratory system, which may reduce your chance of getting a flu, cold or other illness.

Find activities that you enjoy to keep you motivated and engaged. Running, walking, sports, swimming or biking are great ways to stay in shape this season.

If you have a membership, YMCA activities can help you stay active all season long.

 

Get Enough Sleep

Sleep plays a critical role in your health. Sleep deprivation may increase your risk of obesity, diabetes and heart disease. In the short-term, lack of sleep can make it more difficult to stay focused and increase irritability.

Aim for about 8 hours of sleep each night. Some people may need more or less than eight hours. If you wake up feeling tired and wanting a nap throughout the day, you may need to get a little more sleep.

Getting the right amount of sleep may help boost your immune system and help prevent depression or anxiety.

 

Stay Hydrated

In the spring and summer, we’re conscious about staying hydrated, but it’s just as important to drink enough water in the cooler fall months.

Staying properly hydrated ensures that your body is working optimally and flushing out waste. In fact, hydrationplays an important role in your immune system function. If you’re even slightly dehydrated, your body may not be able to efficiently transport the nutrients your organs need to stay healthy.

 

Wash Your Hands

It’s important to wash your hands regularly in the fall to help reduce the risk of illness. With the COVID-19 pandemic, many of us have gotten used to washing our hands several times a day. Keep up this habit throughout the fall.

Use soap and water to wash your hands, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if no soap is available.

 

Eat a Healthy Diet

It may seem obvious, but it’s important to maintain a healthy diet in the fall (and all throughout the year). A balanced, nutrient-rich diet will help support your immune system and fuel your body with the vitamins and minerals it needs.

Balance and moderation are key. It’s okay to indulge a little as long as the majority of your meals are healthy and nutritious. Getting help from a trained nutritionist can also help. 

These healthy habits will help you feel your best this fall. Staying active is one of the most important steps you can take. A YMCA membership can help you meet your exercise goals by giving you access to a wide range of fun activities.

Sign Up for a YMCA membership and stay healthy and fit!