Too Dark to Hit the Gym? Expert Reveals How to Keep Your Routine on Track This Winter
As the clocks go back and the darker evenings set in, many of us find it harder to stick to our fitness routines. Whether it’s the cold mornings, gloomy evenings or general lack of daylight, it’s not uncommon for motivation to dip this time of year.
“When the clocks change, our mindset often does too,” Samantha Cubbins, Strength and Conditioning Coach and Lifting Club Manager at Gymshark, explains. “The darker, colder weather can make it harder to get out the door, and the lack of daylight and Vitamin D can leave us feeling sluggish and tired. Plus, when everyone around us is saying how hard it is to stay motivated, it can become a self-fulfilling cycle,” she adds.
“But the truth is, a little preparation, consistency, and a positive mindset go a long way. Once you push through those first few sessions, you’ll find your rhythm again.”
Below, Samantha shares three tips for maintaining motivation when it’s dark and cold
- Preparation is key
“Pack your gym bag the night before so you’re ready to go in the morning. Lay out what you’re going to wear, like your gym leggings and t-shirt, so you don’t spend too much time deciding what you want to wear. Check your training plan and set a mini goal for the next day, and make it something that gets you excited before you even hit the pillow.”
She adds: “Wear something comfy but not too cosy, and remind yourself that once you’re at the gym, the energy, music, and atmosphere will get you going. And if motivation is flagging, why not mix things up by trying a new class, going with a friend, or booking a one-on-one PT session to stay accountable.”
- Adjust your winter routine
“When it’s dark and cold, the idea of a long session can feel daunting, so consider starting small by keeping sessions short and achievable. Once you’re moving and those endorphins kick in, you’ll often find that you end up staying longer than you planned.”
She continues: “In winter, we tend to sit more, so focus on strength training with a gentle cardio warm-up to get the blood flowing. If possible, train in the morning as we all hit that afternoon slump when the days are shorter. And each weekend, check in with your routine: track your progress, set goals and celebrate the wins to keep that sense of enjoyment alive.”
- Reconnect with your ‘why’
“Ask yourself, why do I want to train? Then keep asking ‘why’ until you reach the real reason that matters to you. Maybe it’s that you want to feel more confident, have more energy, or sleep better. Once it clicks, write it down and keep it somewhere visible, like on your phone wallpaper or on a post-it note on your mirror, as a reminder of what drives you.”
She adds: “Your ‘why’ can change over time, so check in with it and yourself regularly. And remember, it has to be personal. Someone else’s reason won’t keep you going, only yours will.”
Discover more from Luxury Life, a leading luxury lifestyle magazine for modern living.
