As the clocks go back and the darkness draws in, it’s more important than ever to get outdoors every day if you can.

Now, we know that’s easier said than done, especially if you leave home in the dark and get back in the dark but if you can find a way – you will not regret it.

Unfortunately lack of daylight can trigger winter depression, also known as seasonal affective disorder S.A.D) which affects, mood, motivation, sleep patterns and eating habits. These can all be improved by being more active and getting outdoors but how can we fit this into shorter days and motivate ourselves when it’s cold and wet?

The answer is simple ………  JOIN A GROUP who exercise outdoors!

If you are one of those who can’t fit exercise in during the day, being with others is even more vital. It’s no fun trying to stay safe and be seen when out in the dark alone but being a group can make a winter workout a lot of fun!

Sticking together in a group, using headtorches and high viz to make sure you are seen by others whilst being able to see where you are going, will brighten up any winter walk! The time will fly by and you will get back home feeling energised and more likely to eat healthily too.

If you are able to get out in the daytime, you will benefit from the power of nature, fresh air and amazing views. You will also have more fun and be more likely to keep up the exercise if you have the added draw of social interaction. It’s a fact that people are more likely to stick to an exercise regime if they do it with others. It helps them look forward to the session and less likely to skip it – even if it is chilly, muddy and damp! Meeting like minded people can be life changing too as Diane explains below.

you will feel if you get outside, interact with others and get some feel good endorphins from the exercise too.

We guarantee that you will actually enjoy the fireside and sofa more if you don’t feel sluggish, guilty and S.A.D..

Diane from Dorset explains how joining her local WALX group gave her far more than just fitness

We moved to a new area for a new life as our jobs didn’t exist anymore due to covid. We took a gamble and moved to the area of our dreams. As it was during lockdown in  our first few months here I was very depressed having lost so much and left so much behind.

Through FB I saw Lizzie a local Instructor was able to start a WALX group as long as we all distanced ourselves. I found it hard to go for the first time but boy am  I glad I did as it changed my life, spiritually mentally and physically.

I have never met such a wonderful group of people, all of the WALX instructors are amazing and it’s a fabulous organisation to belong to. I pay monthly so am able to attend various classes and group activities, I have wonderful friends now that I  have also met through this group.

I feel a completely different person. It’s,helped with every aspect of my life and I certainly wouldn’t be without it and the fabulous friends I have made.

Thank you to Lizzie and the other WALX instructors I have met..

Diane is now an integral part of her local group who enjoy lot’s of social activities as well as the workouts!

Hopefully, her story will motivate you to step outside with others this Winter too?