Turn over a new leaf - Get fit in the forest!

Why face being stuck indoors at a stuffy gym, when you could enjoy getting fit in the great outdoors?

Experience new sights, sounds and smells as you burn calories in your local woodland. And instead of expensive gym membership, buy a Discovery Pass so you can get fit in the fresh air all year round!

Get out in the forest

Go for a brisk walk, gentle jog or an exhilarating mountain bike ride. Or if you fancy trying something a little different, you'll find great unusual classes at many of our woodlands. From Nordic Walking and Tai Chi at Rosliston Forestry Centre to Bodyfit Bootcamp and Pushy Mothers at Alice Holt.

Find out what's happening at a forest near you - search for activities.

Health and fitness

Experts suggest that adults should aim to do at least 30 minutes of physical activity five times a week to improve health and lead to a happier life style. Forest activities like health walks, cycling and hiking can boost self-esteem, mood, sleep quality and energy levels.

For children it is recommended that they take part in 60 minutes of exercise a day, which could include, riding a bike, building a den or playing chase. Many of our woodlands have interactive trails for children to explore, open green spaces for a few games of tag and play structures for them to climb on and swing along.

Look for your nearest Forestry Commission site on the map below.

Burn those calories!

When we exercise our muscles use energy stored in our bodies from food. The harder you exercise, the more calories you can burn.

Walking is a great form of exercise, and a 30 minute brisk walk will burn more calories than the equivalent time on a badminton court! And by being outdoors, you’ll also benefit from the fresh, clean air and stunning forest scenery.

For each 30 minute activity, you could burn:

210 calories during a brisk walk
330 calories cycling
320 calories running
250 calories having fun on an adventure playground

Why woods?

For a list of reports, case studies and evidence on how woods can benefit health click here.

Find your nearest Forestry Commission woodland

View Forestry Commission Woods and Forests in a larger map

Alternatively search for your local woodland here:

What's of interest

Ditch expensive gym membership this year - get a Discovery Pass and you can get fit in the fresh air all year long!