Numerous running and outdoors events are taking place across Waterford in the period between Christmas and New Year.
And, with many people on the search for New Year's resolutions, a local running enthusiast is encouraging people to get active.
Fine Gael Councillor Frank Quinlan is a passionate proponent of the many benefits of exercising for both the body and mind.
"It's important to have a focus going into the New Year. Everyone is looking for different personal goals and running is one of the things which people of all abilities could start," he told WLR.
He says more and more young people are embracing outdoor activities for social outlets as opposed to pubs and nightclubs.
"So many young people are fed up waking up with a hangover - they'd prefer to be up early, out in the fresh air, enjoying a hike, a run, a swim or a cycle. There are so many things you can do," he says.
West Waterford AC hosted its annual St. Stephen's Day run this week, and other events of various sizes have been taking place.
Frank participates weekly in the SETU Arena parkrun - with the final event of 2024 taking place this morning (Saturday).
Ciaran and Sinead Madde, parkrun Directors
The phenomenon of parkrun has exploded in popularity in recent years, and Frank explains why.
"It's very friendly and inclusive," he says. "It's open to all ages and all abilities, including children, and people can walk if they'd prefer. "
There are currently 152 parkrun events around the country taking place every weekend, with a local event also held in Tramore.
Registration takes place at parkrun.ie and participants are given regular updates on their progress.
Participants in this morning's SETU Arena parkrun
Frank is encouraging people to participate in parkrun as well as numerous other running events taking place over the coming weeks including the Baldy Man Run in Tramore tomorrow (Sunday December 29th) at 11am on The Prom, the Winter League throughout January, and the St. Paul's Parish Frank Leahy 5mile run on January 26th.
In February, Waterford Triathlon Club will host its duathlon, while the popular John Treacy 10 mile run takes place in Dungarvan in February.
"By signing up to something, it gives focus and something to aim for which helps to keep you motivated," says Frank.
"The sense of achievement when completing something is enormous."
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