As spring is a season of rebirth and autumn is a season of transition, too. Autumn is a time when the weather turns colder and the leaves on the trees turn from dull brown into a firestorm, and darkness settles in sooner.

While it’s a favourite time of the year for many, some people find it to be a trigger to lose weight and get fitter. It is impossible to avoid pumpkin spice lattes.

Experts say the key is to set goals before the start of the new year and not just after a few drinks at midnight.

“Fall … is a great time to start a fitness program because you’re going to create good habits for the holiday season and the upcoming winter months,”Justin Price, owner and operator of Biomechanics is a personal training facility and wellness coach in San Diego.

These tips will provide you with some ideas for how to stay healthy during this time of year.

* Head for the hills. Fall is a wonderful time to get out and explore your yard. Get a friend to go with you to the park and ride, walk or cycle on it. Autumn is the perfect time to hike if you live near mountains or hills.

* Turn chores into a workout. Gardening and raking leaves burns approximately 150 calories each 30 minutes. So if you’re busy, grab a rake/a hoe and transform seasonal tasks into a weight-loss workout.

* Drink plenty of water. Water is vital for maintaining optimal health. Although water is a great source of health benefits, research shows that your body must maintain a healthy pH or chemical balance in order to function properly.

Experts believe this is the reason drinking should be restricted. alkaline ionized waterAlkame Water (www.alkamewater.comEveryone should include ) in their health plans. Doctors recommend mild acidity for better hydration. It supports a healthy body and pH balance. Alkame is also a potent source of antioxidants that boost the immune system while increasing aerobic capacity and energy levels.

* Try something new. Price believes fall is the ideal time to improve your physical skills. Have you ever wanted to learn how to in-line skate? Or ride a horse? Fall is the perfect time to learn a new activity.