Put health and vitality on your wish list this Christmas
[22 November 2004]
Xmas may seem to start earlier and earlier these days, but the message from the Ramblers' Association this Xmas is that you can't start soon enough when it comes to health and well-being.
Salvation from the excesses of Xmas is at hand with the
launch of the Ramblers’
Association’s Cotswold Outdoor Festival of Winter Walks
(26 December 2004 – 3 January 2005). While promising a
healthy alternative to yet another mince pie over the festive
period, the programme of walks also offers an opportunity to
kick-start a programme of exercise to restore health and
vitality in the New Year.
The Cotswold Outdoor Festival of Winter Walks is
Britain’s largest walking festival, with 450 plus free walks
across the country, attended by upwards of 15,000 people
annually. It is an opportunity to get out and explore beautiful
countryside on walks of different lengths, terrain and themes,
catering for all abilities.
Winter is a favourite time for the British to don walking boots
judging by the vast numbers who take part in the festival every
year. The appeal of clear, crisp winter air, energy boosting
walks and the chance to socialise with friends and family over
the festive period has lured thousands away from the Christmas
pudding and into the outdoors since the festival began sixteen
years ago.
Research shows that getting fit and healthy is a big
consideration for many when the New Year approaches and few
activities beat walking for long term results. Medical research
proves that regular walking can halve the chance of coronary
heart disease; reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels; it
can help reduce weight and maintain weight loss; increase bone
density and help fight osteoporosis as well as enhancing mental
well being.
Ramblers' Association Festival Co-ordinator Mariusz Wilczynski
said: “There’s nothing nicer than wrapping up warm and heading
out on a beautiful winter’s day with friends for an energising
walk. The Cotswold Outdoor Festival of Winter Walks is a
great launch pad for those who have decided to improve their
health and fitness in 2005 and just need a little bit of
encouragement.”
All who take part in a Festival walk and want to join the
Ramblers' Association will receive a 20% membership discount.
For full walks details please log onto our website at
www.ramblers.org.uk or
call 020 7339 8500.