The time change refers to setting the clock forward or back by one hour. In Germany, this happens twice a year: in spring and autumn. We switch between Central European Summer Time (CEST) and Central European Time (CET), which is also colloquially known as winter time.
Why are the clocks turned back from 3 o’clock to 2 o’clock?
Daylight saving time as we know it today was introduced in Germany in 1980. A key argument in favour of it was the hope that better use of daylight would save energy. However, the actual benefits are disputed: according to estimates by the Federal Environment Agency, whilst some electricity is saved on lighting, more heating energy may be required in the mornings during the transitional months.
Daylight saving time ends in autumn. When the clocks are turned back, standard time (CET) comes back into effect.
When will the clocks be changed to winter time in 2026?
In Germany, the clocks change on Sunday, 25 October 2026. At 3 o’clock in the morning, the clocks are set back to 2 o’clock. This makes the night an hour longer.
When will the clocks be changed back to summer time?
The next change to summer time is on Sunday, 28 March 2027. Then, at night, the clocks jump from 2 o’clock to 3 o’clock.
Is the clock set forwards or backwards?
When the clocks change in October, the clock will go back one hour deferred. So, in theory, you can sleep for an hour longer. According to the clock, it gets light earlier in the morning, but it gets dark earlier in the evening. Of course, the actual amount of daylight doesn’t change just because the clocks have been changed.
When it comes to planning your training, this means: before setting off for your after-work ride, check when the sun sets and make sure you plan a route that’s short enough or have suitable lighting. The same applies to your cycle commute.
When will daylight saving time be abolished?
No binding date has yet been set for the abolition. In 2018, the European Commission proposed ending the biannual clock changes. The European Parliament backed the proposal in 2019 and, at that time, aimed to abolish the changes from 2021 onwards. However, this did not come to pass: the Member States have not yet agreed on a common position within the Council. The current arrangement therefore remains in force.
How does the change in time affect the body?
Our internal clock is governed, amongst other things, by the alternation of light and darkness. When the time changes, our usual sleep-wake cycle does not always immediately align with our daily routine. Some people experience temporary tiredness, sleep problems or reduced concentration. Many find the change in autumn easier than the switch to summer time, when an hour is lost.
The following points are particularly important for your training:
- Sleep patterns: The extra hour on the clock doesn’t automatically mean you’ll sleep longer or better.
- Please note: If you’re feeling tired, it’s better to plan a simple run rather than a technically demanding session.
- Daily routine: Check whether your usual training times still fit in with daylight hours, work and rest.
How does the change in time affect cycling training?
The most significant change for many cyclists is that it gets dark earlier in the evening. A ride after work, which used to end whilst it was still light, may now take place entirely in the dark following the time change.
So make sure you adapt not only your kit but also your route. Check your lights and battery level before setting off. Where possible, schedule longer rides for the weekend or for a time when there is daylight. For high-intensity sessions, indoor training can be a good alternative.
What can you do to counter the effects of the clock change?
With a few simple adjustments, you can make the transition easier for yourself:
- Regular bedtimes: Try to keep your wake-up and bedtime as consistent as possible, even at the weekend.
- Making the most of natural light: Spend some time outdoors during the day, for example by going for a walk or a leisurely lunchtime stroll.
- Unwinding in the evening: A relaxing evening routine and less screen time before bed can help you get ready for a good night’s sleep.
- Making training flexible: If you’ve had a bad night’s sleep, cut back on your workload or take a day off.
Does the change in the clocks pose any health risks?
Some people experience temporary jet-lag-like symptoms such as tiredness, sleep disturbances or difficulty concentrating. The severity of these symptoms varies from person to person. The change in spring is generally considered more stressful than the return to standard time in autumn.
Take tiredness whilst cycling seriously: if you don’t feel alert and safe, postpone any demanding sessions. If you experience persistent sleep problems or severe daytime tiredness, seek medical advice.
How can you prepare as a cyclist?
You don’t need to completely overhaul your training plan because of the time change. Instead, see which small adjustments make sense for you:
- Adjust the rhythm gently: If you’re sensitive to the change, you can push your bedtime back a little each day in the run-up to the autumn time change.
- Reschedule the after-work get-together: Choose a shorter route, set off earlier, or take a longer lunch break to get some exercise.
- Allow time for rest: Make sure you get plenty of sleep during the first few days and adjust the intensity of your training to suit how you’re feeling.
- Have alternatives ready: A light session on the exercise bike or a strength training session at home can take the place of an evening ride.
This way, your training will stay on track even after the clocks change, without you having to stick to the same routine for every session.
How do you keep fit over the winter? Let us know in the comments!