Every year when the clocks go back, something frustrating happens. The daylight disappears and suddenly it feels like someone slapped a curfew on women who want to exercise outdoors. Winter arrives and so does the fear. That tiny voice whispering, should you really be out here right now.
This is why I love the Let’s Lift The Curfew campaign from This Girl Can. It has been running since October 2023, shining a bright light on the stories, frustrations, and bravery of women who just want to move their bodies outdoors without fear deciding their route or their timetable.
This year, the campaign is back again for a third year, marking the official end of summertime with events happening across the country. Week beginning 27 October, women everywhere are invited to join runs that anyone can attend, stepping out together with head torches, hi vis and strength in numbers. It is a collective reminder that we should not have to change our behaviour because the street lighting forgot to care about us.
A Curfew We Never Agreed To
New research from This Girl Can reveals that 72 percent of women adjust their routines in winter because they do not feel safe outdoors once darkness hits. That is a huge jump of 26 percent since last year.
We are talking women who only take well lit routes and avoid certain streets completely. Those who keep their keys clenched in their fist just in case. Women who love running, walking, or cycling but find themselves constantly on alert instead of enjoying what they are doing.
It is exhausting, unfair and it chips away at our freedom.
The Movement For Change
This is not just about encouraging women to keep moving. This is about calling for real, practical change to the streets we all share.
The campaign is calling for:
• Better lighting in public spaces
• Improved reporting and response to harassment
• Education to challenge harmful behaviour
• Inclusive urban planning
• Action from local authorities and organisations to make safety a priority
Women should not have to schedule their fitness around sunset. We should not need a buddy every time we lace up our trainers. Darkness should not mean danger.
Reclaiming The Right To Run
Across the UK, over 100 organised runs have seen women come together to reclaim their right to move and feel safe in public. It is a brilliant visual protest. A reminder that we are here and we are not going to be pushed indoors because someone else behaves badly.
Running gives confidence. It gives head space and peace and a sense of strength that should never be interrupted by fear.
So here is to lifting the curfew. Not the legal kind. The one created by threats, experiences, and those stories we have all heard from friends. We deserve better.
Let’s keep showing up and keep the pressure on. Let’s Lift The Curfew once and for all.
How To Stay Safe Running At Night
Until the world catches up and makes real change, there are things we can do to feel more secure when we head out after dark.
- Be visible. Hi vis clothing and a good head torch make a massive difference. Around 300 lumens is a solid all-round choice for most evening runs.
- Stick to routes you know well. Pavements, cycle paths, and well-lit streets are your best friends. Avoid dark parks or isolated paths if you’re running alone, especially in unfamiliar areas. Confidence in the environment helps you focus on your run.
- Share your location. Apps like Strava Beacon or Find My Friends give peace of mind.
- Run with others when you can. One of the simplest ways to feel safer is to run with someone else. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or a local running group, having company not only makes your run safer but more fun. If you’re new to night running, joining a group is also a brilliant way to meet like-minded people.
- Stay aware of your surroundings. Always have your phone on you, ideally in a secure running strap or pocket. If you like to run with music or podcasts, keep the volume low or use bone conduction headphones so you can stay aware of your surroundings.
- Mix up your routine. Do not always run the same place at the same time.
- Trust your instincts. If something feels off, listen to that feeling and get to a safe place quickly.
Be safe, be seen
A good head torch and hi vis gear make a huge difference. I personally recommend these hi vis essentials.
Choosing a head torch
Here are the key things to look for:
- Batteries: Rechargeable or AA/AAA – think about how easy it will be to swap them in the cold or dark.
- Tilting head: Being able to angle your torch down to the ground or ahead is essential.
- Light output: Measured in lumens; 200+ is ideal for running.
- Burn time: Pack spare batteries if you’re on a longer run. Light dims as batteries drain, so don’t get caught in the dark.
- Operation: Buttons should be easy to use with gloves or wet hands and secure enough not to switch on by accident.
- Colour of light: White LEDs work well, red preserves night vision, and green is handy for reading maps.
- Headstrap fit: Adjustable, snug, and comfortable so it stays put during your run.
