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New Season, New Habits

Woman works out on a rowing machine after establishing good exercise habits.
Megan Hanewald
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As the summer heat fades and the days grow shorter, this time of year often signals a fresh start. With kids heading back to school and vacations winding down, you might notice the first signs of a seasonal shift in the air.

Whether you've been rowing steadily through the summer or took time off to relax and explore the outdoors, late August and early September offer a prime opportunity to build new exercise habits.

Here’s why this is the perfect time to reset and how you can make the most of it.

Why late summer is prime time for establishing new habits

Fresh-start energy

There's something about the end of summer that feels like a new chapter. Maybe it's the cooler evenings or the subtle shift in sunlight, but this time often brings a burst of motivation. Harvest it by starting one of September’s new collections.

Natural rhythm alignment

As daylight hours gradually decrease, it’s a prime time to tune into adjustments in circadian rhythms. Regular exercise can help you fall asleep more quickly and improves sleep quality, helping you prepare to jump back into your post-summer routine. 

Back-to-normal schedule

With summer vacations winding down and fewer holiday interruptions on the horizon, it's easier to establish consistent patterns in your daily life. This is a great time to set a new, achievable fitness goal, like earning a monthly challenge badge or working to establish a new streak. 

Practical tips for creating lasting habits

Start small

Don't try to overhaul your entire life overnight. Maybe add one extra Hydrow workout per week or extend your routine by five minutes -- every minute counts! 

Be SMART

When setting your goals: choose ones that challenge you but are still achievable. SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For example, a great SMART goal for getting back into a routine could be committing to one month of consistent exercise—three workouts per week. Try two 10-15 minute rows and a mobility workout on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, first thing in the morning (or whatever works best for your own routine). 

Celebrate your wins

No matter how small, take the time to celebrate your achievements! You are your best cheerleader, and when you shine a spotlight on your progress, you'll feel motivated to keep going.

Remember, it's not about perfection—it's about progress. Establishing healthy habits is an essential part of maintaining your overall health and well-being. Your commitment to regular workouts is a strong start, and Hydrow makes it even easier with built-in Programs, fun Collections, and the supportive Hydrow Training Camp community on Facebook.

As the seasons change, so can you. Embrace this fresh start, set your goals, and celebrate every step forward. With Hydrow and our crew of Athletes and other members by your side, you’re not just building habits—you’re building a healthier, happier you.

Megan Hanewald

Megan Hanewald

As Hydrow's Personal Coach, Megan has met with hundreds of Members to help them achieve their best results with their Hydrow. A certified life coach, NASM-certified personal trainer and nutrition coach, and USRowing and indoor rowing coach, Megan strives to help Hydrow Members find their healthiest, most balanced version of themselves, no matter what age.