On your bike - Haldon Forest Park, Devon

Haldon Forest Park is 10 minutes from Exeter and offers a wide range of trails as well as cycle hire, café and many non-cycling activities.  

You can even Go Ape there as they have a high ropes course, complete with zip wire.

From the saddle of a bike you can explore deeper into the forest than you have before, take in amazing views, watch out for wildlife and enjoy safe off-road cycling in a peaceful setting. 

For the more advanced mountain bikers there is the longest, most challenging cycle trail which takes in the thrilling ride on Haldon’s imposing ridge. Not for the faint-hearted, or the inexperienced! 

The skills park and pump track offers the perfect place to develop your riding and try out new techniques. 

All Images (c) 1 South West Cycle Adventure

Many of the trails are perfect for even the youngest cyclist.  So what are you waiting for? Go!

On your bike - Family Cycle Routes - Forest of Dean

Designed with small legs in mind, the cycle trail in the Forest of Dean is perfect for the whole family.  The signposted route follows purpose-built paths and railway lines dotted with plenty of picnic sites to stop at along the way.

It starts in the Cannop Valley from Pedalabikeaway and takes you along the old Severn and Wye railway line passing former stations at Drybrook Road, Cannop Wharf and Speech House. 

Remnants of former coal mines can be seen at Foxes Bridge, Lightmoor and New fancy.  It is mostly level with some short climbs making it suitable for all ages and abilities.

and if you don't have your own bikes, you can rent them from Pedalabikeaway, Dean Forest Cycles or Forest Bikes. 

Distance : 11-mile (18 km) 

Difficulty : Easy

www.forestry.gov.uk/forestofdean

Self Indulgence - Pilates

What do I have in common with Pippa Middleton?

We both do Pilates.  Sadly, the similarity ends there.

But my weekly class with Nyree is my hour of self indulgence and surprisingly it's not just because I get to lie down for most of the time.

Contrary to popular myth, I was quite graceful and athletic as a child.  Due to apathy, those days are long gone, but I am trying to stave off the early signs of old age.

What are the benefits?  They help with my alignment, stamina, co-ordination, concentration and flexibility and  provide me with a vital opportunity to relax too.

You can use a book, DVD or follow someone online, but one of the added benefits of attending a class is the bonhomie between gurning classmates as we try to hold the 'plank', master the 'elephant' or endure the dreaded 'hundred'.

So why not find out about a class near you.  If I can do it, anyone can. 

(Although you should check with the instructor or your doctor before hand!)