Now that the clocks have fallen back, it’s time to readjust how you approach your outdoor workouts. The darker mornings and cooler temperatures can feel like your workout is headed into hibernation, when really, you just need to make a few tweaks to maintain a year-round outdoor fitness routine.

Rather than fixate on the things you don’t like about fall workouts, consider that there are a few perks. The beating sun and heat have vanished; you actually extend the number of available hours each day where it’s comfortable enough to be outside. The changing leaves and fall flowers make the scene even more beautiful for a long ride, run, or outdoor yoga session.

TIME CHANGE

After the time change, mornings get brighter and evenings get darker a lot earlier. This can be one of the most dramatic effects of the season change on exercise. If you’re an early riser, this works to your benefit. And if you’ve been wanting to start your day on a stronger foot, it’s the best excuse to get started now. Get up and chase those sunrises!

If your schedule or mood deem evenings the best time for you to workout, gear up to keep yourself extra safe as you run in the shadows.

• Wear bright or light colored clothes - nothing black
• Attach a flashing reflector to your body or bike
• Stay in public areas and on familiar routes
• Don’t wear headphones
• Run against the traffic
• Keep an ID on you

COOLER WEATHER

Depending on where you call home, the weather just improved a lot, or maybe it doesn’t make much of a difference! For those of us facing much cooler temperatures and changing over our closets, there are a few ways to stay comfortable while you’re getting fit during this crunchy time of year.

• Wear breathable fabrics because you’re still gonna sweat and need that wicked away from your skin. You can still chafe in the fall, girl!
  
• Dress in layers. A light hoodie or pullover keeps you warm at the start but easily wraps your waist when things heat up.
  
• Wear a vest to keep your core warm when temps really take a dive.
  
• Wear a hat to help “lock in” some of your own body heat. And gloves on really cold days.
  
• Stay hydrated! Not only will a steady flow of water combat the dry skin brought on by lower humidity and cool air, but hydrated bodies do a much better job of regulating internal temperature.

If it’s still hot all autumn long where you live, here are 5 ways your workout can still thrive in the heat!