Fall Into Good HealthFall into good health this season. During the summer warmer months, it’s easy to stay motivated to walk, run, or exercise outside. As the days grow shorter and the grey months arrive—perhaps it’s the lack of sunlight—one may lose the motivation to stay focused on fitness and weight management.

Earlier this year, I invested in a FitBit wristband to help me stay on track not just during the summer months but all year long. I use the FitBit to track steps taken, distance covered, and calories burned during the day—plus track my sleep cycle at night. We all tend to hibernate during the colder months, but we must set ourselves up for success by planning ahead to exercise and eat healthy.

Wearing old Chaiken long jacket, J.Crew Factory Matchstick jeans with Kate Spade Licorice side camel pimps

My goal of 10,000 steps per day helps to keep me motivated daily. Usually, I walk around every day, and I walk about 4500 steps. With my goal being 10,000 steps, I need to supplement with some physical activity. I found some easy ways to get to that goal. If I watch television, I use a weighted hula hoop during commercials.  I love my 3-pound weighted hula hoop. It’s an easy way to help widdle down pounds that accumulate around my waist quickly. On lovely days, I go for a brisk walk for 30 minutes or try to ride my bike for at least three miles.  I also connected with other FitBit users to help encourage me to keep it moving and be accountable.

Wearing old Chaiken long jacket, J. Crew Tortoise necklace, J.Crew Factory matchstick jeans, Kate Spade Licorice camel suede pumps and my pink FitBit wrist band.

Studies have shown that weight circumference is one of the most practical ways to reduce excess abdominal fat for chronic disease risk.  A high waist circumference or a greater level of abdominal fat is associated with an increased risk for type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and heart disease.

According to the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the following individuals are at increased risk for developing chronic diseases:

  • Women with a waist circumference of more than 35 inches.
  • Men with a waist circumference of more than 40 inches.

However, the World Health Organization has recommended lower thresholds for waist circumference for Asian populations due to recent research findings.  There, those at increased risk for developing the chronic disease include:

  • Asian women with a waist circumference of more than 31 inches.
  • Asian men with a waist circumference of more than 35 inches.

Why are we predisposed to weight gain in the colder months?  We all notice the number on the scale creeping up during the fall and winter months. Even if you don’t weigh yourself, the fit of your clothing gives us the telltale sign that you are gaining weight.

Commit with me to fall into good health this November to March whether or not you use a Fitbit; let’s take fitness to the next level.  Find what works for you and do it daily.

Best wishes!