Before we left Dublin for Houston (all explained here if you’re just catching up) last summer, I put together a bunch of Styled in Ireland posts that would allow readers planning their Dublin visits to continue to learn while I was away. And then Maya arrived and changed the whole game on me! (All that explained here, in case you missed that news flash!) But I’m trying to get back on track, back to my computer, back to FCV, so Styled in Ireland posts are resuming once again! This time, what to wear and where to go to exercise on your trip to Dublin.
Since it’s been quite a while since I’ve done a Styled in Ireland post, I’ll give you a reminder on the point of them all! I like to show both locals and visitors what I wear for a certain occasion or event, and give tips for the best spots to do those things. I’ve covered things like afternoon tea, rugby matches, nights out, Dublin airport and a Saturday farmer’s market – among many more! If you’re planning a trip to Dublin and aren’t sure what to pack or how to dress, start with the Styled in Ireland category.
With all that out of the way, let’s get down to stylish business. For this episode of Styled in Ireland, I’m tackling what to wear and where to go for a workout in Dublin. When I’m traveling, I like to know ahead of time where I might be able to get a quick run or jump rope in. Some days the amount of walking around a new city certainly constitutes enough exercise, but vacation usually means extra indulgence for me and a quick run makes me feel better about eating croissants and chocolate at every meal which seems to inevitably happen whenever I’m on vacation!
This is almost the exact spot I went for a run on the first morning I arrived in Ireland more than seven years ago. The Clontarf running/cycling path that runs from Clontarf north to Sutton. I also used to roller blade up and down this path in the summers! I’m not sure how I was brave enough for that, the last time I went out I totally bit it and haven’t been back up since. It’s a little bumpy for my novice roller blading skills, but it’s perfect for cycling, running or walking.
A few tips. If you’re cycling, make sure to stay on the left like you would in a car in Ireland. And if you’re walking or running, make sure you’re not walking or running on the part designated for cycling (there are usually painted bicycles on this part). That’s really scary if you’re a cyclist because you’re never sure which way to go around the runners. And it could be really scary for a runner to get run over by a cyclist. Just saying.
That’s not technically the running path, but it’s fun to walk up on the ledge! It’s not so high up.
Other places that are good for exercising in Dublin when you’re visiting?
– I’ve mentioned before that I like to bring a jump rope when I travel so I can just post up in a parking lot and get a quick workout in at any time of day.
– Beaches! Sandymount strand on the south side is another nice spot for a jog or walk, or Dollymount strand on the north side. This running path takes you to a wooden bridge that leads out to Dollymount strand. If you continue up to the end of the path, it’s about five miles. If you’re training for a marathon or something nutty like that, you could also run up and around Howth. When my knees used to allow for occasional ten mile runs, I used to do that and the hills are killer! But the view on the descent into the village is amazing.
– Yoga classes. So many yoga studios offer single class passes or a drop-in fee, so you can just pop in at your leisure. MyWellbeing.ie is very central, has a €10 drop in fee and gets good reviews.
– Spinning classes! Andy Kenny Fitness is also very central and has €4 drop in classes for you.
– City parks are a great spot for running (although Stephen’s Green can get very busy and would be more like an obstacle course sometimes!), especially if you’re worried about getting lost or venturing into places on your own.
– And of course, walking all around the city.
What about gear to bring? I have a few suggestions as a veteran runner/cyclist/walker here in this somewhat soggy place.
– Something reflective. My sister and brother-in-law gave me this Gap pullover that has reflect-y bits that are good for running after (or before!) dark. If I’m running in the dark, I often add a reflective arm band as well. My dad always gets worried when I say I’ve been out running in the dark, but it’s incredibly common in Ireland. Just make sure you’re aware of cars when you cross roads and otherwise stay on the sidewalk. There are street lights everywhere, so you’re never in total darkness.
– Something waterproof. I have a light shell I can wear over my running gear so I don’t get totally soaked.
– Warm layers. I can’t remember when we shot these photos, but it was possibly May? It might have even been June! And I was freezing. If I had been actually running I would have been fine, but walking I might have needed a warmer layer. For spring and fall, pack a light pair of gloves and a headband. For winter, the thermal leggings! But one of the things I love about Dublin is that you can get outside to run or walk year round. You just vary the level of bundling!
– Your phone with Google Maps loaded up. Even if I don’t have wifi, I find that if I load up the map on my phone before I go out, I can see where I am with that blinky blue dot. Always a help when you zone out and forget to pay attention to where you’ve turned!
– Know that it will be annoyingly windy in one direction (or sometimes both!) 99% of the time. I tell myself it’s like resistance training so I don’t get too frustrated!
And of course, the best part about getting out for a jog in Dublin is that you get to see more than you could on a walk! I miss being so close to the sea and having those beautiful views every day. If you’re headed to Dublin soon, soak up some of that Irish air for me!
And don’t forget to check out the rest of my Styled in Ireland posts for what to pack or just a little style inspiration!
Sneakers: Saucony / Top: Gap / Leggings: H&M / Mint tank: H&M / Watch: Gap / Photography: Naomi Phillips
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