By Shane Cook, Founder & Co-Owner, Active8
As the clocks and seasons change, this is a good time to review whether to opt for indoor or outdoor fitness training during the Autumn months in Bristol.
I often get clients asking me in October and November whether it is better to focus more on indoor training sessions or to still incorporate outdoor fitness.
There is no definitive answer, and at Active8 we provide personal training tailored to each client with a bespoke fitness plan for their goals.
It is worth considering both options, and tailoring an approach accordingly.
What are the benefits of indoor fitness training in Autumn?
When the weather turns cold, wet and windy, indoor fitness training provides a comfortable and reliable way to maintain a fitness plan. Benefits include:
Consistency in all weather
One of the main benefits clients enjoy when doing indoor workouts with our personal trainers in Clifton and Henleaze is convenience.
Rain, muddy paths, leaf-covered slippery roads and shorter daylight hours do not disrupt their training programme.
We are also able to provide a variety of indoor sessions for clients during the Autumn months, covering gym workouts, strength training, indoor gym equipment and bespoke fitness classes.
Strength and fitness goal focus
Indoor personal training in Autumn at our fitness centres in Bristol provides clients with access to equipment for use with structured programmes focused on building muscle and improving cardiovascular fitness in a safe space.
Motivational environment
I have always maintained that our Active8 fitness centres in Bristol provide clients with extra motivation when Autumn evenings feel cold and dark.
Having a dedicated indoor space with professional PTs on hand and access to safe equipment enables clients to establish a consistent fitness routine.
What are the benefits of outdoor fitness training in Autumn?
For clients who prefer fresh air and natural surroundings all year round, outdoor fitness training in Autumn provides a preferred alternative to gyms.
Some of the benefits clients share with me at Active8 include:
Mood & wellbeing boost
Spending time exercising outdoors in Autumn can support mental wellbeing and reduce stress.
Walking, running and cycling in Bristol during the Autumn months can provide a welcome change of scenery to an indoor fitness centre for some clients.
Improve cardiovascular fitness
Outdoor fitness activities such as Nordic Walking, Trail Running, Cycling and Hiking are good ways I advise clients to improve endurance and heart health.
Varied terrain outdoors that includes inclines is a great way to challenge balance, coordination and supporting muscles as part of a fitness plan.
Seasonal fitness variety
The Autumn months can be perfect for combining a fitness programme with the chance to explore local parks, woodland trails and scenic routes in and around Bristol. Many clients utilise Clifton Downs by our Henleaze gym.
The cooler temperatures associated with October and November also make outdoor exercise more comfortable for some clients than Summer.
I always advise clients looking to incorporate outdoor exercise in Autumn into their fitness programme to remember to dress in layers, include breathable, sweat- and moisture-wicking materials, wear suitable footwear and wear clothing that is visible if they are going to exercise in low-light conditions.
What are the best ways to exercise outdoors in Bristol?
I’ve written a more detailed article about effective ways to exercise outdoors during the Autumn months. To discover more, read this.
Where can I find bespoke training programmes for Autumn?
There are new personal training programmes available for the Autumn. To find out more, please visit here.
To find out more about how Active8 personal trainers can support you with indoor and outdoor fitness training this Autumn in Bristol, please email paul@brcjobs.com.