There's something magical about fall running! Today I'm sharing 5 inspiring reasons to love fall running.
First I wanted to take a moment to offer prayers for the victims and people of Las Vegas. Once again I have no words that seem powerful enough to explain how heartbroken I am. I also pray that this country can find a way to stop this from happening. Good people, love and kindness has to win here. This post feels very lighthearted in light of what happened, but I hope it will give you some positivity in a world filled with such sad news.
Hi everyone,
Fall color is slowly creeping down the mountains. The first couple trees have already popped with glorious golden yellow and vibrant oranges. People travel from far and wide to see what I get to see every day and it's a pretty amazing time to live in the Blue Ridge Mountains. I have a grateful heart for getting a first row seat to see Mother Nature's show each year.
Now while spring and summer is my favorite season for just about everything else, fall wins my heart for my favorite time of year to run. From the cooling weather to changing leaves... it's a great time to lace on your shoes.
This post is all about reminding you why this upcoming month of running will be so fabulous OR inspire you to lace up if you haven't in awhile. I also know some of you can't/don't run, so use this inspiration to get outside and walk or do what you can to this time of year!
5 Reasons Fall Running is Fabulous
Perfectly Cooler Temperatures
As the days become shorter and the sun gets lower, the temperature cools just enough. We hit that temperature sweet spot for runners about this time of year. It is not too hot and not cold enough that you have to wear heavy winter gear.
This time of year is a great time to work on speedwork and run with an ease that is just not possible in summer heat and humidity. It is just perfect. Fall days bring more fabulous running weather than any other season.
Changing Leaves
There are so many beautiful things in nature to look at in the fall. The trees are spectacular to watch change color and they make your routine running routes look even more enchanting. As a runner, you get a front row seat to Mother Nature’s show!
More Races
Between 5K’s and Marathons there are tons of fall races to run. The races are often in ideal weather conditions for speed with a backdrop of beautiful fall leaves. Chicago, New York and Philadelphia all host their marathons in the fall because it is such a fabulous time of year to run.
Routine
Summer is often crazy. But at least my life gets more routine in the fall. Fall is an easier time to plan your runs and get them in.
All The Pumpkin
I know a love of pumpkin spice everything is getting a bit cliche these days, but I still enjoy it. I think it's absolutely delightful to enjoy a gorgeous fall run, followed by a pumpkin themed treat. Try some of my healthier recipes.
3 Ingredient Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins
Pumpkin Pie Baked Oatmeal
No Bake Pumpkin Pie Chocolate Chip Energy Bites
Healthier Crock Pot Pumpkin French Toast
Whether you want a brunch or just a snack, these pumpkin recipes have you covered.
Fall Running
Fall running really is a perfect time of year to embrace or start the sport! I hope this got you a little excited about the upcoming months of beautiful running.
Like this post about Fall Running? Pin this to your favorite Pinterest board!
Thanks for reading today! Come back tomorrow for photos from Makena's first hike this past weekend.
Your turn!
Why do you think fall running is fabulous?
I’m linking this post about Why Fall Running is Fabulous with Marvelous Monday, Jill Conyers for Fitness Friday & Inspired to be Fit, Amanda for Thinking Out Loud Thursday, Coaches Corner, and Annmarie for Wild Workout Wednesday.
Emily Swanson says
I 100% agree that it is so much easier to run in the fall, and the routine is much smoother than crazy summer days. I also LOVE the fall colors; it's so glorious.
Heart is hurting for Las Vegas, and we continue to pray and look for ways to help. <3
JulieWunder says
So pretty! Love this time of year!
Agness of Fit Travelling says
I also love fall running and I couldn't agree more with your reasons, Julie!
JulieWunder says
Thanks Agness!
Farrah says
I'm a terrible runner, but I'm definitely hoping to get some fall hiking in, for all the reasons you mentioned! ;P Does that count!?
JulieWunder says
totally! Thanks Farrah!
Annmarie says
YES to all of these! Just wish the temps would cooperate around here - SO HOT lately!
Megan @ Meg Go run says
I love that there are more trail races in the fall. I love running in the woods through the beautiful fall foliage!
JulieWunder says
What a great addition to the list!
Kimberly Hatting says
Summer is definitely my favorite season (even for running), but I dearly love fall as well. The crisp, cool air with that hint of bonfires....and the crunchy leaves underfoot 😉
JulieWunder says
Both are so lovely!
Lora @ Crazy Running Girl says
So true, and completely agree!! I love running in fall the most!! The temperatures are my ideal running conditions usually. 🙂
JulieWunder says
It's so pretty! Hope you are enjoying the season.
Naomi says
Agreed! Fall is perfect running weather, especially when you have pumpkin flavors to fuel you up!
JulieWunder says
Exactly! Thanks Naomi!
Chrystal Rose says
These are so true! I couldn't agree more with the awesome weather aspect. This makes me want to go run right now! Thanks for sharing.
JulieWunder says
Thanks for stopping by!
Bacheca BBincontri Milano says
It's a motivating article..thanks for sharing!
JulieWunder says
Thank you!
Marina @ Happy Healing says
Ahh fall is my favorite season for all of these reasons! I, too, feel like I fall out of routine a bit during the summer, but I'm ready to be back in it this season!
Hope you have a great hump day filled with lots of pumpkin-flavored goodies!
JulieWunder says
You too, Marina!
Susanna says
I was just thinking how much I love running in the fall! I've had several great runs just this week. I love the temperatures right now and the beautiful scenery. We need to run together soon!
JulieWunder says
Yassss! So pretty right now.
Kim G says
Yes to all of your reasons! Fall is my favorite time of the year because I love colder weather and running is so much more enjoyable!
Maureen @ Maureen Gets Real says
Fall really is the best running weather! You don't have to layer up to be warm but don't die even on easy runs from heat and humidity.
JulieWunder says
So true! Makes a big difference!
Lacey@fairytalesandfitness says
Pumpkin pie muffins....yum! I like baking but sometimes there is just too many ingredients. But with only 3 this is very doable.
JulieWunder says
YES! These are fool proof!
Kristin Goodson says
I love fall running and your list was perfect! I love the cooler temps and the fact that there are more races! I love how my friends are more willing to run with me in the fall because it's not so hot!
Jim Christoffersen says
Julie: If you haven't seen the following, you'll like it!
http://www.coolestone.com/media/10607/Miles-For-Hope---Woman-Completes-50-State-Challenge/#.VEAXRWd0xQJ
Sorry to hear about Reina-it's tough when a cherished pet isn't well.
JulieWunder says
Thanks for sharing! I had not seen it before and it is such a great story! Thanks for the love and kind words about Reina. I'm still hoping she can shake it!
Laurie Morris says
I am praying for your Reina baby. I know it is so hard to see your sweety feel bad. I am just finishing Cancer therapy ( bilateral mastectomy, 8rounds of chemo and 33 radiation treatments). NOW I am ready to feel better again. I am ready to start walking again. Trouble with neuropathy hinders that somewhat, but I have to take it slow and don't overdo!! This weather will motivate me!!! Hoping to come to the mountains next weekend!!!!
JulieWunder says
Best of luck with the recovery! It sounds like a tough one, but you sound tougher. Stay strong. Thanks for reading 🙂
Heather @Fit N Cookies says
Absolutely!! I love seeing the leaves change and having different scenery, not to mention the cooler weather!
JulieWunder says
Me too!
Tracy says
Could not agree with this more! It's crazy how much easier running feels in the fall after feeling so sluggish throughout the summer. Definitely the most enjoyable running season!
JulieWunder says
Absolutely! Some days my legs feel like weights in the summer.
Amanda says
You're so right: fall running is what I look forward to! The temperature was PERFECT yesterday. The sun was shining, but there was a cool breeze. Love it!
JulieWunder says
I have such an easier time running in 50s and 60s!
Dan Steadman says
love running in fall...not to hot, not too cold, also I can lose the second shirt plan, in summer I take an extra shirt to change into after running at the track, or if I go somewhere to run, then when I get home, I don't freeze...also more races. You can start to reflect on your year at this point...also for early morning runners, you can get your run in before the sun comes up.
Stacie @ SimplySouthernStacie says
Fall is my favorite time of year to run. The weather is just absolutely made for running!
Keeping Reina in my prayers too! Hopefully no surgery!
jill conyers says
Yes yes and yes! All the reasons I love fall + fall fruits and veggies!
Blane Sherer says
I know this is tough for you with Reina.
Hang in there. Thanks for the update.
Fall has always been my favorite running season.