Getting fit is always at the top of the list of New Year's resolutions but it doesn't have to be a chore. Elizabeth Barnett looks at some of the fun things on offer in Hampshire for you and your family to enjoy the whole year through
Getting fit is always at the top of the list of New Year’s resolutions but it doesn’t have to be a chore. Elizabeth Barnett looks at some of the fun things on offer in Hampshire for you and your family to enjoy the whole year through
ClimbingClimbing is a fantastic activity to do as a family as it involves trust, support and respect, all of which will benefit family life away from the rock face. Start by learning the ropes at a locally certified centre and once you know your stuff, there is no better way to see the south’s incredible coastline than to scale the cliffs themselves.Where? Calshot Activites Centre, Southampton. 02380 892077www.hants.gov.ukHow much? A Beginner course at Calshot will set you back around �75 per person for one day a week over a three week period. Once you have the skills however you can use the wall whenever you like from �6 for children and �7 for adults.
Horse RidingWhat’s not to love about trekking through the New Forest when someone else’s legs are doing all the hard work? It may seem like the easy option but horse riding is actually great for toning your legs and arms and will definitely win you brownie points with the kids.Where? Burley Villa School of Riding, New Milton. 01425 610278www.burleyvilla.co.ukHow much? During January and February on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings the Western Trail is on offer for �37.50 per ride or �70 for two riders. Two-hour western trails are suitable for beginner riders, are at gentle paces, walk and jog only and will take you out into the forest over the open heath where you will ride among the forest ponies and foals and then on to the forest enclosures where you may be lucky enough to spot a Fallow or Roe deer.
SailingLiving in a county bordered by water it would be impossible not to be drawn to the coast so why not make the most of it by learning to sail along Hampshire’s pretty shores. Sailing is a fantastic confidence building activity that will not only tone every muscle in your body; it will also improve core stability, stamina and strength.Where? Southampton Water Activities Centre, Southampton 02380 915753 www.swac.co.uk How much? Free during the Discovery Weekend in January, a great way to try sailing without having to empty your pockets. If you want to become more involved there are many RYA courses running throughout the year from �150 for adults and �99 for children.
KayakingKayaking is a fun and adventurous way to spend time with your family that is guaranteed to get your adrenaline pumping. Once you get to grips with the basics you can build on your skills and then move on to more challenging waters.Where? Woodmill Outdoor Activites Centre, Swathyling. 02380 915746 www.woodmill.co.uk How much? A Family Introduction to Paddlsports at Woodmill is priced at �30 per person for a two hour introductory session with opportunities to experience a variety of paddlesports. Woodmill is also included in the Nestle Get Set Go Free promotions were you can try other activities such as adventure ropes, climbing and archery all for free. Collect tokens on Nestle packets and log them online to gain your passes.
SkiingIf you can’t get to the real thing this winter, or if you want to brush up on your skills before you go away then dry slope skiing is a great way to learn the basics, advance your skills and have fun with your family.Where? Southampton Alpine Centre, Bassett. 02380 790970www.southampton-alpine-centre.co.ukHow much? You can enjoy a 45 minute taster session on the slopes from �16.50 (must be 16 or over) or for a more advanced option, the beginner course is priced at �76 for four and a half hours. For under 16’s there is a Junior Snow Sports Club charged at �12.50 for 4-7 years and �13.50 for 8-15 years.
