By Shane Cook, Founder & Co-Owner, Active8
At this time, I get clients asking me about effective ways to exercise outdoors in Bristol during the Autumn.
Despite the nights getting darker earlier, colder temperatures and wet weather, many of the clients who work with our PTs at Active8 in Henleaze and Clifton still enjoy incorporating outdoor-based exercise in their routines.
Active8 provides a full range of personal training programmes, and our bespoke plans for every client include options to allow for outdoor-based fitness and exercise routines throughout the entire calendar year.
As well as working with our PTs at the Active8 indoor fitness centres in Bristol, many clients enjoy cooler temperatures in the Autumn, which for some can make physical activity outdoors more comfortable than during the Summer.
Whether you enjoy running, Nordic walking, cycling or outdoor workouts, there are plenty of ways I recommend clients can stay active outside, such as:
A brisk Autumn walk
Walking is one of the most effective forms of outdoor exercise, particularly when incorporating a brisk pace such as found in Nordic Walking.
A rapid 30-minute walk can raise heart rate and deliver an effective low-impact workout.
I also advise clients to opt for a route with hills and to vary their pace between faster and slower sections. This helps to deliver variety and a real challenge.
Run outdoors
Cooler Autumn temperatures can create ideal conditions for running.
I advise clients to always start with a gentle warm-up to prepare muscles, especially on chilly mornings in the Autumn.
Also, I recommend wearing comfortable layers that can be removed.
Finally, be mindful of wet leaves, slippery paths and deep puddles. Choosing suitable footwear with good grip provides comfort and safety in the Autumn.
Bring out the bike
Cycling is a really effective way to exercise outdoors in Bristol during the Autumn. Plan a route through some of Bristol’s amazing parks and woods.
Autumn can bring unpredictable weather conditions and reduced daylight, so it is vital to wear visible clothing and check your bike before setting off. Always use appropriate lights on every Autumn journey.
Dress for the weather
The right clothing can make outdoor exercise in Autumn months much more enjoyable.
Wearing breathable layers allows you to adjust your clothing levels when your body temperature changes. A lightweight waterproof layer is also advisable.
I also tell my clients to stay hydrated even when they’re not sweating as heavily as they might in Summer.
Outdoor exercising in Autumn still depletes water and electrolytes from the body.
Invest in personal training
One of the best ways to enjoy effective outdoor exercise in Bristol during the Autumn is by working with a professional, qualified personal trainer.
Our PTs devise bespoke fitness programmes for each client to ensure they get the best results in a structured and safe environment.
We have superb personal training programmes available for the Autumn. To find out more, please visit here.
To find out more about effective ways to exercise outdoors in Bristol this Autumn, please email paul@brcjobs.com.