With the Olympics underway, many Foresters may be asking themselves how they can try to stay fit and healthy too. 

Luckily, the Forest has such a unique landscape and it is packed full of different classes, clubs and sports that can keep you a fit Forester. 

Let’s explore your options further. 

If you head down to Beechenhurst, Coleford, you’ll find that fitness classes like Boot Camps are often on the go. Typically they’re run by a personal trainer and you may need to pay your entry, but the benefits cannot be understated. Check online to see what days and events are available that suit you.

VisitDeanWye.co.uk compiled a list of the “12 easy walks” for residents to enjoy throughout the Forest of Dean. They’re tailored to all abilities, so you’re bound to find a trail that you can do. 

One of the key things with fitness is consistency. It’s best not to overstretch yourself and give up easily - try to find something you can do over and over again. 

One example is trail five for Lydney Docks. It’s pretty flat for the most part and has some lovely views. Perfect for a walk with friends or family. 

The Forest of Dean has a variety of gyms and health clubs. If you’re someone who enjoys working out with some music and other people around you - this is certainly the option for you. 

You may also be able to find a discount code for certain gyms through work agreements and even your mobile phone contract. 

There are plenty of places in the Forest where you can go for a dip - whether that’s out in the “wild”, Bathurst Pool in Lydney or in a leisure centre. 

Swimming is a great way to keep fit and it’s highly recommended among experts. It burns a surprising amount of calories and it’s fun for all the family. 

Not to mention, if it gets warm this summer - there are few things more refreshing than a cool dip. 

From athletics at the Forest of Dean Athletics Club to football for Lydney Town, there are a variety of sports clubs in the Forest of Dean to take advantage of. 

Not only are sports like this a great way to keep fit, but you build bonds for life among your teammates and improve your game every week! 

And don’t panic if you feel some sports are too intense or fast paced. Snooker, darts, bowls, pool and golf are also good ways to keep active and part of a team (albeit, they don’t have the same level of physical intensity!). 

You may be asking yourself why you should even worry about keeping fit at all. Well, the NHS says: “It can reduce your risk of major illnesses, such as coronary heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and cancer and lower your risk of early death by up to 30%.” 

Exercise has so many physical and mental health benefits, and when you’re keeping fit with friends and family, you feel the benefits even more. 

You can find out more about the ways to get into exercise through the NHS website.

Some people consider keeping fit to be a chore, but it doesn’t have to be. Even if you need to stick to home workouts, there are plenty of ways to do that. 

It’s always better to do things at a pace you’re comfortable with and having others with you for support. So, if you’ve wanted to get back into fitness or you are completely new to it, explore the options the Forest of Dean has to offer you.