Forests are a great place to escape the noise and redress the balance, even in the middle of winter. Being active in nature is scientifically proven to reduce stress, lower blood pressure and strengthen the immune system. It can be difficult to make yourself be active outdoors when it's cold, but we've got six activities to help you get started.
1. Get your steps in
Those feet are made for walking, and that’s just what they’ll do. Did you know that Nordic walking burns up to 46% more calories than regular walking and uses all your major muscles? Head to your local forest and stroll through the winter season in style.
Top tip for advanced walkers: bring a pair of binoculars to spot winter wildlife along the way. Robins, woodlarks and owls will be cheering you on to reach that step count.
2. Dust off the bike
Do wheels give you the feels? Get back into cycling and choose the forest as your playground this winter. From winding family-friendly trails for beginners to thrilling slopes for experienced mountain bikers, there’s something for everyone.
Top tip for advanced riders: escape the busy roads and test your skills on one of our more challenging trails.
3. Start running
Hitting the forest trails and running through nature beats pounding pavements any day. Blow away the cobwebs this winter and go for a run on one of our waymarked trails. Ditch the headphones and let the soundtrack of the forest motivate you to keep moving.
Top tip for advanced runners: progress through the variety of different distances and grades, and you’ll be breezing through 10k routes in no time.
4. Take you dog for walkies in the forest
Staying active this winter can be as simple as taking the dog for a walk. Have fun bonding with your pooch on our new Forest Walkies with Wallace & Gromit trail. Sniff out your local walk and head out on a forest adventure together.
Top tip for dog walkers: many of our forests are now bin-free, so bring poo bags and take the poop away to help keep our forests clean and safe.
5. Travel on horseback
Saddle up and enjoy a peaceful horse ride through the forest. From meandering valleys and mature woods to shady streams and beautiful open heathland, our forests offer some fantastic riding opportunities.
Top tip for advanced riders: keep your eyes peeled for the fantastic trees and wildlife that surround you. Up on horseback, you'll have a great vantage point to view undiscovered wildlife spots!
6. Try forest bathing
No snorkel needed. Instead of bathing in water, try bathing in the senses of the forest during the colder months. Dive into the Japanese relaxation practice of shinrin yoku. This mindful way to get active is the perfect way to de-stress and reconnect with nature.
Top tip for connecting with forests: share your passion with others with our forest bathing activity sheets. Taking time to encourage children to see mindfulness as beneficial for their health and wellbeing too.
