Scotland, the giant gym

We all know that physical activity gives us confidence, makes us happy and is key to a long and healthy life. But the key is to find an activity that you like doing. If the gym is not for you, here are some fun ways to get fit in the great Scottish outdoors.

Walking
From gentle woodland ambles to knife-edge mountain ridges, Scotland has every conceivable option for walkers. Mountains here are among the most spectacular in Europe. The highest Scottish Mountains are graded as Munros (mountains over 914.4 metres).

Scotland's "Right to Roam" law means that you can walk anywhere and camp in the wild, not just at campsites.

For mountain walking information you go to Munro Magic or for woodlands and forests go to the Forestry Commission website.

Climbing
If you are brave enough to dangle from a windy cliff you'll find no shortage of outdoor climbing places in Scotland. See the Scotclimb website for a comprehensive list of routes.

If you want to start off on something a little less windy there are indoor climbing centres.

Cycling
Cycling is one of the best ways to discover Scotland. There are many routes to choose from – ranging from the daunting but spectacular pass at Applecross, North Highlands to wonderfully sedate seaside routes along the Fife coastal path. For inspiration see the Sustrans website.

Football
Ask a Scot if they have a passion for any sport, they would most likely say 'football'. No matter where you are in Scotland you'll find a club to play in most nights of the week.

Shinty
A fast-paced team sport, rather like hockey but much more dangerous. It involves hitting a small hard ball with a stick into a goal. Even if you don’t want to play it, it gets your heart pumping just watching. Find out more on www.shinty.com.

Canoeing and kayaking
Canoeing and kayaking are great ways to explore the glens and coastlines of Scotland, and fantastic exercise too.

Find all the information you need on the Scottish Canoe Association website.

Skiing
There are five ski resorts in Scotland, with pistes suitable for all abilities. Most are quite untamed and rugged, which definitely adds to the fun. See the Ski Scotland website for full details.

When there's no snow, you can practice on one of Scotland’s dry ski slopes, made of a honeycomb of bristles or one of the many indoor centres of artificial snow.

Ceilidh
A traditional Scottish country dance to Scottish folk music. It consists of four couples and a caller giving instructions. There are always plenty of friendly locals to point you in the right direction. Wherever you are in Scotland you’re never far from a ceilidh.

Horse riding
With all its wide open spaces Scotland is the perfect place for horse riding. It's not just the horse that gets fit. The larger cities have riding clubs, but it's the wild country where this sport is most rewarding.

Who needs a gym when exercise can be this much fun?

Related Links

More information about sport and leisure in Scotland