How to exercise safely in the dark

During the winter months the limiting hours of daylight make it hard to find time for exercise around work, plus in the midst of a national lockdown we can't take shelter in gyms and pools to exercise - so how do we exercise safely in the dark?

Many may find exercising in the dark to be a daunting prospect, although there are plenty of ways to help you stay alert and stay safe while you are outside getting some fresh air. Some of these top tips include:

• Avoid loud music - Yes it is great for motivation, however it can be distracting and stop you from being alert to your surroundings. Try using a low volume to ensure you are aware of everything going on.
• Stay visible - Wearing light coloured or hi-viz clothing is very important when exercising in the dark, so drivers are aware of you at all times.
• Lights - Perhaps considering investing in a running head torch if you are venturing out early or later in the day so you are always able to clearly see your path and there are many accessories you can get for bikes so you can be seen in the dark.
• Exercise with a friend - Not only is it motivating but it's safer too!
• Run against traffic - You should always face oncoming traffic so you can keep a look out for any potential dangers coming.
• Tell someone your exercise plan - Having a trusted person you can tell your exercise plan to is always a good idea. It needn't be much, just a text or chat, so long as they can be alert and know if to contact you.

If you do prefer though to exercise during the day, then Kate Dale, from Sport England, suggests you could always start by having a word with your boss,

"If you're working from home, see if there can be some flexibility so you can take a longer lunch hour or start a bit later," she says.

"You don't have to go out for a long time, 10 -15 minutes and just a change of scenery is going to make a huge difference to how you feel physically."

Kate also states that any physical exercise will be key to keeping our mental health in check during lockdown, and it allows you to socialise as well.

The main thing is to find a way which works for you to ensure you are staying safe, whilst getting in essential exercise to keep your physical and mental wellbeing in check.

(Image Source: BBC)