How to Stay Active as the Nights Draw In
When autumn and winter arrive, the days feel shorter, the evenings are darker and the weather can be less inviting. It’s natural for motivation to dip during this time of year, and many people find it harder to stick to their usual routines. But keeping active through the colder months has huge benefits for both your physical health and your mental wellbeing.
We know that staying consistent is not always easy, which is why our centres offer a variety of options to help you keep moving, stay motivated and feel good no matter the season.
Set realistic goals
When energy levels drop, setting smaller, achievable goals can keep you on track. Instead of aiming for daily workouts, try focusing on two or three planned sessions each week. This approach keeps fitness manageable and avoids the pressure of expecting too much when life already feels busy. Over time, those consistent sessions add up and make a real difference.
Add variety to your routine
Repeating the same workout can quickly feel monotonous and boring. The darker months are a good opportunity to try something new and find activities that suit you. Our class timetables include options like group cycle, kettlebells, yoga and swim sessions, meaning there’s always something new to keep things interesting. Switching things up can boost motivation and help you look forward to exercise again.
Train with others
Exercising with other people makes a big difference. Joining a group class or arranging to meet a friend at the gym adds accountability and makes it easier to show up, even on evenings when you feel tired. Many of our members say that the community feel in our classes is what keeps them coming back. Exercising in a group can turn a workout into something social, which makes it more enjoyable and sustainable.
Use our indoor facilities to your advantage
Colder weather doesn’t mean your fitness has to stop. Our gyms, pools and studios provide warm, welcoming spaces where you can focus on your goals without being affected by the rain or the dark evenings. After a session, many members also enjoy relaxing in the sauna or steam room, a reminder that fitness and recovery go hand in hand.
Build fitness into your routine
Treating exercise as part of your week rather than an optional extra makes it easier to stick with. Whether it’s a regular swim after work, a Saturday morning gym session or a favourite weekly class, scheduling your activity liek any other commitment helps turn it into a habit. Once it becomes part of your lifestyle, it requires less effort to stay consistent.
Why does it matter?
Staying active through autumn and winter is about more than just keeping your fitness levels up. Regular exercise at this time of year helps to:
Boost your mood and reduce stress.
Increase energy and combat tiredness.
Support immune function.
Maintain strength, flexibility and cardiovascular health.
Even short workouts or swims can have a positive impact. The key is consistency, not perfection.
Keep moving with us!
We’re here to make it easier to stay active all year round. With gyms, pools, classes and expert instructors across our centres, there are plenty of ways to find an approach that works for you.
Have a look around our website to check class timetables and membership options, and take that first step towards keeping your health and wellbeing on track this season.
