The weather’s getting more unpredictable, temperatures are dropping, the days are getting shorter – and darkness is becoming part of the training routine. For a lot of runners, fall is a mental challenge. At the same time, it’s a crucial part of the training year and with clear air and colorful trails, it’s the perfect chance to consistently work on your fitness.
We asked our DYNAFIT athletes Nora Schief, Lukas Mangger, and Tobias Geiser how they run through the transition period. Here are their best tips on motivation, gear, and safety.
Motivation in the fall: routines that stick
When it stays dark longer in the morning and gets dark earlier in the evening, you need more than just discipline to keep at it. Our athletes rely on routines that anchor training in everyday life.
For example, DYNAFIT athlete Nora Schief consciously starts her day with a little ritual: “I wake up 30 minutes earlier, enjoy a coffee in peace – it helps me get into running mode. Sometimes I even dance while getting dressed, just to get in the mood.” Another trick is motivation through limitation. Nora only listens to her favorite podcasts while running. That builds anticipation and makes the run a reward.
Lukas Mangger makes the most of his day: “I try to schedule my runs during the daylight hours and save stretching for the evening. In fall, the sun rises later, so starting the day a bit later is perfect. That way, you can connect the sunrise and the run directly.”
And sometimes it’s the little things that matter: “Remember your why – and the hot chocolate afterwards,” says Nora. “Running is a gift, even in fall.”
Dressed smartly for the cold and darkness
In fall, functional clothing is more important than ever. The DYNAFIT athletes rely on three principles: layering, visibility, and lightness.
“Dress in layers,” Nora advises. “After ten minutes, you can still take off a layer – that way, the start isn’t as tough as when you’re freezing at the beginning.” Especially with changeable weather, the combo of breathability and weather protection is key – no compromises on weight and freedom of movement.
Reflective details and bright colors are a must for Lukas. “I always wear a headlamp and the reflective gear from the DYNAFIT Reflective Collection – no matter if I’m on trails or near roads.”
Tobias Geiser feels the same way: “In the dark, it’s super important to be visible. I run with a headlamp and a red rear light, wear reflective clothes, and try to stick to less busy roads.”
Stay safe: route, light, community
With the darkness, the safety risk goes up. Familiar routes give you a sense of direction and keep you from getting lost in the dark. Lukas says, “I prefer running on my home trails because I know every curve there.”
If you feel unsure in the dark, busier areas or lit routes are a good alternative. Nora also recommends, “Run where other people are – it feels safer.”
Another factor is running in a group. Running together not only boosts motivation but also makes it safer, especially at dusk. “If I can, I run with others; otherwise, I listen to music, but at a lower volume so I can hear what’s going on around me,” says Tobias.
Stay on track: fall as a training opportunity
Fall is no reason to slow down – quite the opposite. Right now is a great time to work on the basics, build endurance, and set your focus for winter training.
DYNAFIT athlete Tobias Geiser puts it simply: “If you really enjoy running, the season doesn’t matter.”
For Lukas, it’s clear: “Even when it gets uncomfortable outside, the rhythm stays the same. You just have to know when and how to train.” Nora sees autumn as a mental workout too: “Running after sunset isn’t always easy – but if you still go for it, then you know: you’re pushing through.”
More visibility: DYNAFIT Reflective
Even in the darker season, performance doesn’t have to take a break – on the contrary: with the right mindset, functional gear, and a clear focus, training stays uncompromising. If you also focus on visibility, you’re not just safer out there, but you also run with a good feeling.
The DYNAFIT Reflective Collection was made just for that. Here you can learn more about the reflective running collection that makes you more visible from head to toe in the dark.
