Don’t fall off the fitness wagon!

Fall is on its way, and here at Utah Association of Special Districts, we’ll hit the ground running!

We’re preparing for our annual convention, coming Nov. 1-3 to the Davis Convention Center in Layton. And we’re still in the legislative interim committees, getting a feel for what’s ahead when the Utah Legislative General Session begins Jan. 22.

Much like everyone else this time of year, we’re getting our kids back in school, thinking ahead to the holidays and trying to stay ahead of whatever else comes flies our way. It’s clearly not the time to slack off our fitness routines, no matter how low the temperatures fall.

So how we do to stay on track? Here are a few ideas:

• Eat healthy! We know that between the convention and the holidays, this is a season screaming for indulgences, topped with a promise to make it all right with a New Year resolution. But there are ways to have your cake and eat it, too. Snack on something healthy before you party so you don’t go in there ready to eat everything in sight. Remember the three-bite rule; three bites allow you to indulge without overeating. When asked to bring a dish to pass, bring a favorite healthy dish that will call your name. You can do this and you’ll feel better for it!
• Get enough sleep! It should be easy in what we call “good sleeping weather,” right? But this is about more than just getting enough rest. Sleeping seven to eight hours every night helps you maintain a healthy weight, lower your risk of diabetes and heart disease, and, yes, stay awake for the great presentations we’re pulling together for the convention!
• Stay hydrated! You’ve heard this all summer but it’s true in cold weather, too. Instead of sweating, the condensation comes out as a whispery breath on cold mornings. So if you want to keep your joints lubricated, your skin unwrinkled, and your brain alert, drink your water!
• Stay active! The change in weather will probably play havoc with your joints but there are ways to work around that. Spend a little more time warming up before your workout. If you’re heading outside (and who can resist autumn in Utah?) layer your clothing so you can keep your muscles warm. And afterwards, take time to cool them down, working the stiffness out of your arms, legs, and lower back. Remember, we’ve got work to do!