As summer winds down and schedules shift back into school drop-offs and pick-ups, sport schedules, and earlier sunsets, the physical activities that were part of your active summer life can fade along with the season. Feeling like you're in limbo physically can be unsettling, but remember that this is a transition -- not an ending.

While you're getting your new household schedules figured out and in sync, here are some simple and time-saving activities you can do to help keep your energy up, manage stress, and maintain overall fitness and wellness. The good news? You don't need to go to a gym -- just a little creativity (and determination) can keep you in motion, and in shape.

Try the 10-Minute Stack

When long workouts feel impossible, or even mentally exhausting, break them down. Ten minutes of movement two or three times a day can be just as effective as one long session. Do a brisk walk around the block after lunch, a quick bodyweight circuit between Zoom meetings (think: squats, planks, and lunges), or a short stretching session while dinner is in the oven.

Create a Walking Bingo Board

A walking "bingo board" can add variety to your transitioning family time, and is also a fun way to socialize with friends and co-workers. Turn walking into a game by designing a bingo board with fun prompts like "take a walk in a new neighborhood," "snap a photo of a sunset," or "listen to a new podcast while walking." See who can check off the most boxes by the end of the month.

Maximize Your Steps

Some tips have withstood the test of time. If you’re commuting or running errands, park farther from the entrance or take the stairs when possible. Try taking a 15-minute walk before and after your workday to mentally transition and add movement to your day.

Incorporate Stretches into Daily Tasks

Do calf raises while brushing your teeth, wall sits or planks during commercials, or a few yoga poses while waiting for laundry. Search video apps for time-saving and low-impact fitness routines, such as chair yoga or wall workouts that you can fit into early morning, lunch, or after-work time slots.

Tap into the Seasonal Changes

The days may be starting to shorten, but in many regions late-summer and early-fall weather makes it easier to move around outside. Try paddleboarding, sunset hikes, or weekend bike rides. Yard games like cornhole or frisbee keep you moving while spending time with friends and family.

Keep your mojo while embracing this summer-to-fall transition -- you may find that moving back into busy school and work schedules becomes far more comfortable.