Keep active this winter and go on family walks
Stay active this Christmas and keep your fitness levels up with scenic walks that will leave you feeling revitalised and refreshed.
From the iconic Lochwinnock Loop Line in Scotland to the picturesque Wandle Trail in London, the Sustrans traffic-free routes pass through some of the country’s most attractive locations.
The routes, which are good for short jaunts or longer hikes, are suitable for family and friends of all ages who want to explore their local areas during the season of goodwill.
To help plan your trip, the Sustrans website has an online mapping facility which allows you to search for routes near you, please visit www.sustrans.org.uk/map
Sustrans Chief Executive Malcolm Shepherd said: “After eating a heavy Christmas lunch or being cooped up in the house for most of the Christmas period, getting out and about in the fresh air will get your blood pumping and do you the world of good.
“With 75% of people in the UK now living within a couple of miles of the National Cycle Network, organising a cycling or walking trip is a fantastic way to bond with members of your family or friends and shed some of those unwanted calories. If you’ve got a new bike for Christmas, it also gives you a great opportunity to show off your shiny new present!”
Spanning the UK, the National Cycle Network’s 13,500 miles of walking and cycling routes include scenic traffic-free paths, quiet roads and lanes, signed on-road routes and themed long-distance routes. Last year, the network saw 484 million journeys made by 3.3 million individuals.
Make the most of your cycling or walking trip this Christmas by following these top tips. More can be found on www.sustrans.org.uk
- Don’t risk it. Cycling can be tricky when it snows or in icy conditions, so please think twice before getting on your bike. If you decide to walk make sure you wrap up warm, wear some reliable boots and take your waterproofs.
- When you’ve got a young child on the back of your bike, they won’t be generating heat like the person doing all the pedaling! So take extra clothes and waterproofs for them also.
- Got some cold turkey left over? Rustle up some turkey sandwiches and drinks to keep everyone’s energy and spirits up.
- Keep the trip packed with interest. Plan your trip around interesting stops and sights along the way.
- Don’t be too ambitious and gauge the mood of the group. Its much better that everyone returns home feeling refreshed and revitalised - not exhausted and put off.
- If you’re cycling with children, ride in a line with the children in the middle of the adults. If there’s only one of you, the adult should be at the rear, keeping an eye on all the children in front.
- If you think it might get dark whilst you’re out, consider wearing bright or reflective clothing.
Femalefirst Taryn Davies
Tagged in exercise Cycling fitness tips