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Connect & Grow Magazine: Issue 18 February - March 2025
You know how it is; you’ve finally taken the bull by the horns and actually followed through on your New Year’s Resolution to get fitter in 2025.
You’ve....joined a gym, hired a personal trainer, signed up for pilates or committed to outdoor classes.
You were consistent, feeling stronger, more energized...and then the seasons started to shift. The mornings are cooler, the evenings darker, and suddenly that extra hour in bed or curling up on the couch with a good book feels a lot more tempting than a workout.
Sound familiar?
After 31 years as a personal trainer, I’ve seen it happen time and time again. Dedicated clients who were showing up 3-6 times a week start tapering off - first down to four sessions then two, and before they know it, they are lucky to fit in one workout a week!
But here’s the thing, fitness isn’t just for summer.
And as someone who’s been in this industry long enough to see every seasonal excuse, I’m here to remind you that Autumn isn’t a reason to slow down-it’s an opportunity to adapt, embrace the change, and keep your momentum going.
Adjust your Routine Not your Commitment
As the days get shorter, your schedule might need tweaking, but that doesn’t mean your workouts should disappear. If early mornings were your thing in Summer but now feel unbearable, try switching to an afternoon or evening session.
If outdoor classes no longer appeal, explore indoor options like strength training, pilates or even a heated yoga session!
The key is flexibility-adjusting to the season rather than giving up altogether.
Layer up and keep moving
For those who love outdoor training, cooler temperatures don’t have to be a dealbreaker. The right gear makes all the difference! Invest in moisture wicking base layers, a breathable long-sleeve, and a lightweight jacket if necessary. This way you can stay warm without overheating.
And remember, once you start moving, you will heat up pretty quickly!
Layers are the key (as any menopausal woman will tell you!)
Embrace Seasonal Activities
Autum is a fantastic time to mix things up. Try hiking in the crisp air (I did this yesterday-walked up the 1000 steps in the Dandenongs!), cycling without our harsh Summer sun (much nicer!), or even outdoor circuit training in a park.
Variety not only keeps things interesting but also challenges our body in new ways, preventing plateus.
For example, throughout the summer months I did mainly walking, cycling and hiking.
Now the cooler weather is here, I will be adding pilates, running and weights into the mix!
Remember Your “Why”
This is important; When motivation dips, revisit the reasons why you started this healthy regime.
Whether it’s improved energy, strength, mental clarity, or simply feeling good in your own skin, those reasons don’t disappear just because the temperature drops.
Write those goals down, set new seasonal ones and remind yourself why staying consistent matters - think of the wonderful example your setting for your family and friends, what a great way to inspire them into embracing a healthier way of being!
The Bottom Line? Keep going
Autumn is not the time to hibernate. It’s a time to adapt, refocus and the build the resilience that keeps you going year-round.
So....instead of seeing the cooler months as an excuse to slow down, use them as a chance to reset, try something new, and prove to yourself that your commitment to health isn’t seasonal, it’s for life.
Now let me ask the final question, Are you all ready for the New You to appear and stay?
Are you ready to be that example for others?
There are plenty of likeminded people out there that will help you stay on the right path. Join fitness communities for extra support, goal setting and motivation. It really does help to be with others who will encourage you to keep going.
Go for it everyone, I’m cheering you on, and setting new fitness goals for myself at the same time!
(please reach out to me privately if you would like more hints and tips
Written by
Vivienne Derwent
‘Inside Health, Outside Vitality’
Vivienne Derwent
B.HSc. ANTA
M:0402 076 103
Email: viv@vnutri.com.au
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(C) Break Free Consultancy 2025
Disclaimer: All information is accurate at the time of publication and subject to change