Fun activities in the great outdoors

Gyms can be expensive and uninspiring for many of us, so why not look outside your front door for free and fun activity ideas to do in the great outdoors? Getting back to nature can encourage you to be more active, which will reduce your risk of illnesses such as cancer, diabetes, depression and heart disease. It also makes you feel happier, especially over the winter months. Exercise in the outdoors can also lower your chance of becoming obese, which is linked to a higher risk of developing cancer.

What activity can I do?

There are many activities you can do in the great outdoors. WCRF UK advises we all try to exercise for at least 30 minutes every day and children should get 60 minutes, so try one of these outdoor activities today.

• Walking

  Plan a walk with friends or family or if you want to meet new people or try a new route, why not go on an organised trip? Visit Walking the Way to Health or the Ramblers Association for group walks to enjoy with others.

• Nature Trail

  Getting close to nature is a great way to engage with the natural environment while you are being active. Kids will love this too. Head to your nearest green space and, if you look closely, you’ll discover a whole new world. Locate your nearest nature trail by contacting your local tourism office or make a do-it-yourself trail. You can print 'fun games for parks and woodlands' from Change4Life and take it along next time you go to the park or visit the countryside.

• Birdwatching

  Spot different bird species as you take a walk in the great outdoors. Most places have a local club you can join and birds can be spotted all year round. Visit www.birding.uk.com for details.

• Green gym

  Do you have an interest in getting fit but you don’t want to join the gym? Combine the natural environment with activity as part of a scheme called the Green Gym. Set up by a GP, this initiative inspires you to improve your health and the environment at the same time. Experienced leaders will guide you through a range of practical projects in the outdoors.

• Outdoor swimming

  Swimming in the great outdoors is free and gets you closer to nature. There are many places, from rivers to lakes to the coast, where outdoor swimming is possible, but ensure you check the water is safe before jumping in. Find out more from the Outdoor Swimming Society.

Whichever nature activity you choose, the most important thing is to get started now so that you can begin to reap the health benefits of being active right away.