27 Mar Embracing the outdoors around Torquay

We have waved farewell to winter and welcomed spring with open arms. I have always liked how symbolic this season is, as this time of year really puts a spring in your step. People have been marching on throughout March, as it should be, making the most of our beautiful surroundings here in Torbay.

The Big Tackle event by Rowcroft Hospice was awe-inspiring again this year, as over one thousand local people took to the streets to raise vital funds for an instrumental charity that is so close to our hearts. Many had an enjoyable day out as they walked, laughed, ate pasties, drank beer, and watched the Six Nations rugby back at Torquay Rugby Club. Tremendous work by the Rowcroft Team and all involved in this special event. The Big Tackle is certainly one of my favourite annual events, as when it boomerangs back around it provides a gentle reminder to us all about the benefits of being outdoors.

The Torbay the Move challenge has also been a huge hit this month. Teams join the big challenge and record their steps as they cover the walking distance of the United Kingdom. This has proven fun, competitive and certainly tiring, speaking as someone who has put in a considerable amount of steps this March as I aim to improve my general fitness. Over 100 teams have taken part-covering millions of steps. It has been a very positive sight to see. The virtual map also shows you UK landmarks along the route, which is a very nice touch. We have a range of activities and events going on this year, which encourage people to be more active.  There is a range of regular bay walks, running, swimming groups, yoga, gardening and more taking place. Please do reach out to me and other local community builders to get a feel for what is on offer.

I am very passionate about exercise for many different reasons. I used to run gyms in the past, with a background in personal training. I love the social aspect of building relationships through exercise, the mental side as being active allows you to distress and think clearer and the physical part, which makes you feel far more confident in yourself. Embrace the outdoors. A stroll in the woods with your dog, a walk along the coast with some friends, a heritage outing, whatever the case, connecting actively with nature has benefits galore. I am looking forward to the rollout of events this year.

The Baton of Hope, The English Riviera Walking Festival, The Torbay Half Marathon and many more to get people moving. You are most welcome to join a walk from Torquay Train Station, which takes place every Friday from 10:30am, just contact me on 07754609494 and I can add you to the group’s WhatsApp for updates. Please do check out Cockington for the upcoming Easter activities and events, as well as for some awesome pre-historic trails, as Dinosaurs re-emerge once more.