7 Fun Fall Activities for Families (That Can Also Help You Stay Fit)
by Cheryl S. Grant
As the days get shorter and the temperature starts to dip, it's normal to feel less motivated to work out — but there are a number of creative ways to stay active! Fall is the perfect time to refresh your routine.
Fortunately, there are plenty of fun fall activities for families that can keep your energy levels up. Here are seven options you and your kids can enjoy this autumn season.
1. Apple Picking
'Tis the season for everyone's favorite fall activity: Apple picking! Not only is this a fun outdoor activity, but consuming the fruit has been touted as a way to keep the doctor away — and for good reason. Apples are rich in antioxidants, phytonutrients, fiber, and vitamin C. All of which have been shown to help reduce the risk of developing diabetes, cancer, and high blood pressure.
Plus, walking through a beautiful apple orchard (while trying to keep up with your children) makes for some great exercise. Check out this list to help you find places to go apple picking in your state.
2. Go Hiking
There's nothing like the great outdoors to pull you out of a seasonal slump! Studies have shown that spending time surrounded by nature can significantly improve our moods. What better time to take advantage of such benefits than when the air is crisp and the leaves are changing colors? To find a picturesque spot to visit in your area, simply type your zip code into this search tool on the National Park Service website.
3. Walk the Beach
People often think that beach time is limited to 90-degree weather. But fall is a great time for a leisurely stroll on the boardwalk or along the beach! Not only will this provide you with some great morning (or evening) exercise, but you and your family can take in the sunrise or sunset without having to weave your way through crowds.
4. Fall Festivals
Autumn is the perfect season to find activities dedicated to enjoying family time! Between the cool temperatures, beautiful scenery, and Thanksgiving holiday, family-friendly fall festivals abound.
You can have a lot of fun (and cover a lot of ground) walking around seasonal festivals that feature activities like pumpkin harvests and corn mazes. To make a day of it, take advantage of events that offer food, family-friendly movies, arts, crafts, and concerts.
5. Collect Pine Cones and Rake Leaves
Many fall activities for families require a little creativity — and who doesn't like to get creative? Gather up the family and scour the yard for pine cones and leaves that can be made into a centerpiece for the dinner table. While you're at it, why not sweep up some of those pesky fallen leaves? Your kids might not think of this chore as a fun activity, but when everyone gets involved — and jumping in a large pile of leaves is part of the equation — plenty of fun can be had!
6. Be Charitable
Given the Thanksgiving holiday, the fall season is a wonderful time to appreciate what you have and give back to your community. That's why you often see so many charitable races and walks taking place during autumn!
Consider signing your family up for a community walk, running for a charity of your choice, or volunteering at your local food bank. If you're feeling extra ambitious, you might even look into Turkey Trots being hosted in your area on Thanksgiving morning. Nothing like burning some calories before the big feast!
7. Enjoy a Picnic
This is a classic fall activity — pack a basket and head out to the nearest park. Use insulated thermoses to carry your homemade hot chocolate and coolers to keep your sandwiches chilled. Enjoy the day as a family, and take a nice stroll through the park following your meal. Maybe you'll even break into teams for a friendly game of touch football! The possibilities are endless.
As always, please consult with a physician prior to beginning any exercise program. See full medical disclaimer here.