Keeping up our usual routines can get that little bit harder.
With the clock change creeping up, the days are getting shorter and the evenings darker.
With marathon season in full swing, a lot of us have been squeezing in runs before or after work and making the most of whatever daylight is left. Add in our working days and to-do lists, and we're all finding ways to keep getting outdoors as the seasons change.
The temptation to head straight home, get cosy and call it a day is definitely creeping in, and we’re feeling it ourselves!
So, we've pulled together a few simple tips & things to remember.
Start small
Sometimes it's about taking the pressure off yourself, and starting small. Setting yourself more manageable goals can make getting started feel a lot less daunting.
Instead of committing to an hours-long hike or a 5K run, start with a 20-minute walk or a shorter 3K route.
Remember that some weeks you'll get out three or four times, others barely once. It's about keeping it going, not getting it perfect!
Commit to it
The best way to commit, is to always have something to look forward to.
Lock in a hike with friends, sign up for a local event, or plan a Sunday evening sea swim and sauna. Having something in the diary makes getting out that bit easier when the time is already set aside.
Make the most of the day
With daylight hours getting shorter, sometimes it's about making the most of the time we do have.
If you're working from home, block out half an hour in your calendar for a lunchtime walk. If you're in the office, get out between meetings or jump off the bus or Luas one stop earlier to get some air in before you start the day.
It doesn't have to be complicated but can make a big difference, particularly when it's already dark by the time you finish work!
Find an accountability partner
Rebecca and Shane have been doing plenty of running together lately, including taking on the Dingle Half Marathon, pictured above.
Sometimes all it takes is having someone else to get you out the door.
Having someone to train with and keep you accountable can make all the difference, especially on those mornings when you'd rather stay in bed!
Find a friend, a colleague or a family member who's up for joining you. Even a regular weekly walk together is a good place to start.
Join a community
If you don't have someone to head outdoors with, there are plenty of brilliant communities around Ireland making it easier to meet people and get moving.
From hiking groups to local running clubs, sea swimming groups and outdoor communities - there's something for everyone. We've actually previously pulled together a list of some of our favourite outdoor communities around Ireland. Read our recommendations here.
Layer up, pack well, prepare for anything
If we waited for perfect conditions, we'd spend an awful lot of time indoors.
We're in Ireland after all!
A little preparation goes a long way. Having a waterproof jacket, a warm layer and the right gear ready to go can make heading outdoors that bit easier when the weather isn't looking great.
Stay safe
As the evenings get darker and the weather changes, it's important to think and plan ahead before heading outside.
Whether it's headtorches, reflective gear, a waterproof jacket or an extra warm layer in your bag, make sure you're prepared before you go.
Be mindful of weather warnings and only head out when it's safe to do so. No view is worth risking your safety for.
If you're heading out solo, stick to familiar routes, charge your phone and let someone know where you're going and when you expect to be back.
We've put together a guide with some more tips here in our Guide on Staying Safe While Hiking. Check them out if you're hitting the trails!
Change things up
As we head into winter, habits change, so why not try something new?
If running on dark mornings doesn't work for you, or you're more of a summer hiker, try a morning walk, a new route, an indoor workout, a new hobby, or something completely different!
There's no rule that says your winter routine has to look the same as your summer one.
Remember why (and the feeling you get afterwards)
It's easy to get caught up in distances, goals and making progress.
Sometimes it's just about getting outside for some air, walking the dog or a quick stretch of the legs on a busy work day.
And chances are, you'll feel better for it afterwards.
So as we head into the darker months, here's your reminder to keep making time for the outdoors, in whatever way works for you!
What did we miss?
We'd love to hear what helps you keep up your outdoor routines through winter. Leave us a comment below!
Did you know?
In 2023, we started Outwest Outdoor Club to make it easier for more people to get outdoors, explore new places and meet good people along the way.
Since then, we've hosted hikes and outdoor adventures across Ireland, bringing our community together for a few hours outside.
If you'd like to join us, follow our page here. You can also DM us on socials @outwestclothing.ie to join our Community Whatsapp group and be first to hear about what's coming next.
