Top 5 Tips for Getting Outdoors this Fall
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It’s November and the inevitable darker and rainier season is upon us. However, there’s no need to go into hibernation from outdoor exercise. Fall and winter in the Pacific Northwest are wonderful times to get into the great outdoors.
Be safe out there: When it’s dark, whether you’re on the trail or on the street for your exercise, you need three essential pieces of equipment: a headlamp to see where you are going, and a blinking light and reflective clothing/vests so others can see you. I recommend a headlamp with at least 100 lumen for street exercise and 160 lumen on the trail.
Exercise with buddies: Another way to exercise more safely outside is meeting up with friends. Having buddies will also keep you accountable and not let allow you to hit the snooze button one more time.
Dress appropriately: Dress like its 10 degrees warmer than it actually is outside, once you warm-up your core temperature, you won’t sweat as much when you are wearing lighter clothing. Less sweat equals more warmth. In addition, I always bring a packable lightweight back-up jacket on all my rainy day adventures. Plus, I put an extra pair of gloves, hat and socks in a zip-lock bag in my trail running pack in case I get soaked halfway through.
Wear wool: Wool is a natural temperature regulator that keeps you dry and comfortable all year around. In the wet season, wool is particularly helpful because it stays warm when wet. Look for only high grade Marino wool or goat wool. Both are soft and won’t give you the wool itch! I highly recommend the Balega Mohair (goat wool) sock we have in-store now.
Expand your horizons: Make plans with friends to meet at new locations each time to keep your exercise fresh. If are into hiking or trail running, I suggest you go to the Washington Trail Association website hike finder map and boldly go where you’ve never gone before.
Author: Adam Stuhlfaut is Director of Running at SHOES-n-Feet