5 Easy Ways to Stay Active Without the Gym

5 Easy Ways to Stay Active Without the Gym

15/10/2024

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Are you looking for ways to stay active without going to the gym? The gym is not for everyone, but there are many other ways that you can stay active to boost your physical and mental well-being. Keep reading to discover five great gym alternatives that will help you get enough exercise and achieve your goals.

1. Take Daily Walks in Nature

Walking is one of the most underrated forms of exercise. Additionally, as a low-impact activity, it is suitable for all ages and can help you be more active without risk of injuring yourself and we all know the benefits of being outdoors in nature. Walking can improve cardiovascular health, boost mental well-being, and fit easily into your routine, whether it's a short stroll around your local park or a weekend hike. A sturdy pair of walking boots can make outdoor walks more comfortable, especially on rough or uneven terrain.

2. Get Active at Home with Bodyweight Exercises

You don’t even have to leave the home to get a good workout in. There are lots of excellent bodyweight exercises that you can do anywhere and without any extra equipment, including lunges, sit-ups, squats, and pushups. These are all activities that can help build your core strength and endurance as well as attain a more chiselled physique.


3. Embrace an active commute

Many people struggle to find the time to exercise, especially when they work full-time but if you live within walking or cycling distance of work, take advantage of that. Cycling is not only a great way to increase your fitness but it's also a very sustainable and budget-friendly mode of transport. This can enhance your daily physical activity, reduce your environmental impact, and save you money on travel costs.


4. Try a new fun hobby

I love being active but I don't like the gym, so having fun hobbies that keep me moving are key. I love to skateboard, surf and hike, all of these are really enjoyable and social so if never feels like a workout but at it's core they are. It could be joining a running club or trying out a group yoga lesson or giving SUP a go for the firs time. It's a great way to meet new friends as well as improve your overall physical and mental well-being. 

5. Incorporate Movement Breaks Into Your Day

People often spend long periods of time sitting, which can be harmful to your health in a few ways. Therefore, incorporating short movement breaks into your day is important to break up sedentary behaviour and keep your energy levels up. This can include standing up, stretching, and taking a short walk every 30 minutes or so.


If you want to be more active but don't like the idea of going to the gym, these are a few great alternative activities. It is important that everyone has activities that they enjoy doing to get enough exercise each week. When you are able to exercise regularly, it can make a huge difference to both your physical and mental well-being.

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5 lesser know waterfalls in South Wales

5 lesser know waterfalls in South Wales

11/10/2024

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If you love the outdoors and are travelling to Wales you may have already heard of Waterfall Country on the edge of the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park where you will find the famous Four Falls trail. While the Four falls trail is famous for a reason and very beautiful it's also extremely popular and busy, especially in summer. There are however 5 other equally beautiful lesser known waterfalls, some fairly close by, that offer stunning views without the crowds and I thought I would share them with you.

1. Pen Pych Waterfall

Located near the small village of Blaencwm in the Rhonnda Valley, Pen Pych is one of my favourite walks and while there are some steep areas that you will need to take care navigating, it's a walk my kids have done since they were young. There is a free and well-marked forestry car park with the path leading up from there. You will find picnic benches at the halfway point and some fantastic viewpoints across the Valley along the way. Do take proper hiking boots as the trail can become wet and slippery in some areas. Read more about this hike here. 

Pen Pych Waterfall

2. Clydach Vale Countrypark, Tonypandy, Top Lake

You can start this walk at either the lower car park for a longer circular trail or head up to the upper lake for a short wander to this somewhat hidden fall. As you make your way around the lake, on the left hand side, you will see a path heading up and this will take you to the larger fall which is best seen after rain. There is also a monument to the mine  that once stood near here. 

Clydach Vale Counrypark Waterfall

3. Melincourt Waterfall

A really impressive waterfall that is a short 10 min walk from the free carpark. There are some steep areas along the one side of the path so do take care when walking with young children, besides that it's an easy walk that is well rewarded with a stunning waterfall. What I love about this place is everytime we have gone we are the only people there. You can read more about this waterfall here.

4. Pistyll-Goleu, Llanwanno

There is a lovely circular walk through the beautiful and ancient St Gwynno Forest in Llanwonno that takes you past the hidden gem that Pistyll-Goleu waterfall. You can also find a small cafe in the woods, which is run by volunteers. Again this place is very quite and it's usually locals and dog walkers who explore the trails here. 

5. The Witches pool at Pwll-y-Wrach Nature Reserve

Near the small village of Talgarth you will find the Pwll-y-Wrach Nature Reserve, set in a narrow valley, this place feels magical. As you make your way through the reserve you will come across a few small waterfalls before coming across a much larger and rather spectacular one that has a deep pool below it known as the "Witches Pool" from which the reserve gets its name. It can get quite muddy and skippy here so best to take a good pair of walking boots.

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Is Singapore a family friendly destination?

Is Singapore a family friendly destination?

10/10/2024

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Is Singapore a family-friendly destination? With the travel and tourism market set to grow even more in Singapore in the coming years and with more families travelling further afield and broadening their horizons, it's a good question and the answer, simply, is YES. 

So what makes Singapore a family-friendly destination and why should it be on your bucket list?

1. Well firstly it was ranked first in Asia for family life in the Expat Insider 2019 Family Life index, of course living somewhere and travelling to it for a holiday are two different experiences but I think it gives a good insight that it's a family-focused city.  

2. Transportation and ease of getting around - Singapore has a very reliable MRT system which is cheap and easy to use, as well as an efficient public bus network that again is a cheap option for getting around. The city is also pretty small and well known for it's brilliant urban planning that makes a lot of the city walkable with a network of pedestrian walkways and lush green spaces to explore. 

3. Family-friendly places to eat - there is an array of family-friendly spots to grab a bite to eat, from the local dishes at hawker centres across the city to themed cafes, hangouts and restaurants offering tasty treats for all diets. 

 4. Family-friendly places to stay - the city offers fantastic hotel options that are not only suitable for families but also offer parents space to relax. When looking to make a Singapore hotel booking you will be spoilt for choice as many welcome families while also offering spa facilities, casual dining spaces you can all enjoy, having a nice glass of wine on a terrace while the kids enjoy views across the city. 

5. An array of family-friendly attractions - there are some incredible days out to be had in Singapore that are perfect for families. From interactive museums to Gardens by the Bay, Nature reserves, Aquariums, Zip-line adventures, it's has it all. I've previous written a blog post on the top 5 things to do in Singapore so do check it out. 

6. Lots of outdoor green spaces

Singapore is filled with natural green and lush spaces wiaitn to be explored, from tropical mangroves to beautiful coasts, there is plenty of places for the children to run off some energy as well as getting out there and enjoying the sunshine that bit beautiful city has to offer. 

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Best dogs for active families: Finding the perfect fit

Best dogs for active families: Finding the perfect fit

09/10/2024

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Dogs are such a special addition to any family. Furry balls of fun running around can enhance family life, get everyone outside for exercise, and provide lots of laughter and love.

Finding the right fit for your family can be challenging, though. You want a breed that can match the activity levels of your family whilst still creating companionship. Here are ten of the best breeds for active families.

Labrador Retriever

One of the most popular breeds in the UK, Labradors are all-around winners. Their versatility and friendly nature mean they are perfect for families with children. If you are a group that likes hiking, running, and outdoor play, then expect a labrador to join you on your adventures happily!

Border Collie

Border Collies are known for being highly intelligent animals with incredible stamina. As such, they are an ideal match for families who enjoy being outdoors for long periods. You could even start a new family activity of agility training, which Border Collies absolutely love.

Beagle

Beagles may not be an obvious choice when it comes to adding a furry friend to your pack, but their size doesn’t mean they aren’t as active. Beagles have incredible stamina and a love for exploring, which is great for countryside walks.

Golden Retriever

Similar to the Labrador Retriever, Golden Retrievers have a good balance between playfulness and gentleness, which makes them good for families who haven’t had dogs before. Golden Retrievers are just as happy having a game of fetch in the garden as they are embarking on long hikes – just remember they will need a large nap and meal afterwards!

Dalmatian

Made popular by the blockbuster Disney film, Dalmatians are spotted balls of boundless energy. Their love of running makes them the perfect companion if you are marathon training or a long-distance enthusiast. As a high-energy breed, they need a proper diet to keep them going. Look into sensitive dog food if you have a pup with tummy troubles.

Whippet

If you have seen a Whippet when in the park, you will know just how speedy these canines can be. Don’t let this put you off, as Whippets can be docile and cuddly at home too. These doggy pals will fit into families who do small bursts of activities such as jogging or playing fetch.

Springer Spaniel

When you think of dogs with bundles of energy, Springer Spaniels might leap into your mind. Strong hunting instincts make these pups ideal for rural walks, as they can explore using their nose and have great adventures.

Jack Russell Terrier

What Jack Russel Terriers lack in size they make up for with energy and determination. Fiercely loyal, these dogs are always on the move, which helps to encourage the whole family to be active and play.

Vizsla

Hailing from Hungary originally, Vizslas are easily identified by their sleek russet coats, which are perfect for foraging throughout hedgerows and forests. Cyclists may enjoy the company of a Vizsla as they love running and need a lot of exercise to stay happy.

German Shepherd

German Shepherds are iconic for their loyalty and strength, but these gentle giants do love to play too. They are highly intelligent and, like Border Collies, really benefit from agility training to keep them occupied. You could also get them involved in protection training, making them the ideal companion for the whole family.

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