Do boys really get the winter blues worse than the girls?

The clocks have gone back which means Winter is well on its way. New research by multi-sports retailer Wiggle (https://www.wiggle.co.uk/) reveals that female fitness enthusiasts are most likely to stick it out through the bad winter weather.

The data, which analysed sentiment from over 6,000 UK sports enthusiasts, reveals the various barriers to fitness across the nation.

A third of men (36%) surveyed stated they would be put off exercise due to the bad weather in the coming months, compared to only 31% of women who believe they are more likely to battle through winter and keep up their fitness efforts.

The research reveals that out of the age groups surveyed, 26% of 20 to 34-year-old respondents expect the longer nights and shorter daylight hours to be a barrier to their training, followed by 35 to 44-year-olds (19%) and those aged under 20 (18%).

North East tops the charts for being most likely to be put off by bad weather (44%), followed closely by Scotland (42%) and Wales (40%). London fitness fanatics are most likely to brave the elements, with only 30% of Londoners believing they would consider ending their sporting efforts in the winter.

20 to 34-year-olds and 35 to 44-year-olds tie for having the poorest work life balance, with a quarter from each group (26%) stating long working hours stop them from enjoying sport and fitness.

Employees in Northern Ireland enjoy the best work life balance with only 15% of local respondents stating long working hours is a barrier to their fitness. This is compared to London which has been called out for the poorest work life balance and long workers hours (24%), followed by the East of England (22%)

Huw Crwys-Williams, Commercial Director at Wiggle commented: “At Wiggle we understand that there are a number of barriers that can impact our fitness efforts in our day to day lives. Our research shows many of our customers find it harder to keep their training up as the long, darker nights arrive and with bad weather on the horizon. However, there are steps we can take to minimise the barriers including being prepared with the correct kit and equipment for autumn and winter as well as looking at indoor training options when we don’t want to battle the elements.

“We want every fitness enthusiast to feel they are best equipped to break down any barriers to achieve their best, stay fit and enjoy a full life throughout the year. I encourage consumers to get in touch or visit the information on our website for advice and guidance on keeping safe, warm and dry during the winter months.”

For tips on fitness and keeping safe and warm this winter visit Wiggle’s blog https://guides.wiggle.co.uk.