With the nation in the midst of a third lockdown getting out for our daily exercise has become more important than ever.
Whether it's a new priority to get out and move your body, be it because of working from home and being sat down all day or escaping the house for a moment alone, away from home schooling - exercise has become our solace.
The benefits of being active far exceed just the physical changes your body may see.
The emotional benefits of getting outside in the fresh air and enjoying some gentle exercise can make a huge difference to our mental health, especially for people who suffer from seasonal affective disorder (SAD) in the winter months.
SAD is a form of depression that comes and goes with the season. As the sun sets and stays down, so does a person's mood.
However exercise releases endorphins, which are hormones that reduce pain and increase feelings of well-being. In addition, exercise increases your metabolism, which helps to improve your energy levels.
Due to the national lockdown gyms are closed and we are only permitted to leave the house for essential shopping or once daily for exercise.
You can exercise in a public outdoor space:
- by yourself
- with the people you live with
- with your support bubble (if you are legally permitted to form one)
- in a childcare bubble where providing childcare
- or, when on your own, with one person from another household
You don't need to start running marathons or doing circuits, but a gentle 30-minute walk is enough to see positive changes in both your mind and body whilst adhering to lockdown rules.
Here are some 30-minute walks to enjoy in Sussex:
Ashdown Forest, High Weald
Image - Google Street View
There are so many walks to enjoy in Ashdown Forest and so much land to cover that it would be easy to spend a whole day ambling through the woods.
However, if you're looking for a nice short walk away from the suburbs then you could try the Pooh Walks from Gills Lap.
These two walks can be joined together to make an extended walk or enjoy each one over a couple of days.
The first is a short walk of 1km which can be extended to 3.25km which can take roughly 45 minutes to complete.
You can download the full walking guide from the Ashdown Forest website or head on down and walk until you've had enough.
Hampden Park, Eastbourne
Image - Google street view
Approximately 1.5 miles, this walk can take between 30 to 45 minutes to complete depending on your walking speed and fitness level.
The circular walk takes you around the park and there is free parking on site.
Try to visit at different points throughout the day to avoid visitors and crowds.
This is a gentle walk that is suitable for all ages and was part of the MS friendly walks organised by walking for health.
Bedes Coastal Ramble
Image - Google Maps
If you fancy an invigorating walk to awaken the sense then there is nothing better than a coastal walk.
Take in the stunning sites of our gorgeous coastline and breathe in absorb the fresh sea air.
This coastal ramble starts near Bede's School on Duke's Drive and follows the natural lines of the cliff line rotating back on yourself after approximately 1.5 miles.
There may be some uneven terrain and it is advised not to visit the site in adverse weather conditions.
Wellingham Walk
Image - Google Maps
This short walk just north of Lewes is an easy circular route to suit all abilities and spans 1.5 miles.
Starting and ending at the 16th century coaching house The Cock Inn towards Wellingham Lane.
From there you walk towards Wellingham Farm and round until you are back at The Cock Inn.
This lovely walk takes you through country stiles, across bridges and along countryside footpaths.
Find the full route and map on the East Sussex website.
Hellingly Walk
Image - Google Maps
This Cuckoo Trail based walk that take you across farmland and through the village of Hellingly.
The two mile circular walk takes you along a portion of the 'Cuckoo Trail' following the route of the old Cuckoo Line railway.
Start at the Cuckoo Trail car park and use the path at the end to join the Cuckoo Trail, beside old Hellingly Station towards Mill Lane.
The walk takes you along footpaths, through fields and over a footbridge so be sure to take your wellington boots.
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