WITH the nights getting shorter and the days brighter, it’s time to get off that couch, unearth those trainers and head to the hills.
This year, the Belfast Hills Partnership are encouraging people to get off that couch, unearth those trainers and head to the hills.
The independent charity, which seeks to improve how the city hills are managed, oversees Cave Hill Country Park and Throne Wood in North Belfast and Carnmoney Hill in Glengormley.
Starting next month, they are offering exciting ‘taster’ sessions of a range of activities to help you get out and about, get active and get healthier during the month of May.
Tomorrow (Saturday, April 29), Throne Wood will be the venue for a number of special events, beginning with a guided walk to explore the beauty of the woods at 11am.
A minibeast adventure to hunt out and meet woodland creatures, in the shape of a fun family walk at 12pm and 1pm.
An afternoon of storytelling and fun for all the family takes place from 2pm to 3pm and 3pm to 4pm. Booking is essential for all the above events through Woodland Trust at centralevents@woodlandtrust.org.uk or call 0330 333 5302.
On Saturday, May 6 at 5am, John O’Boyle will lead a walk around Cave Hill Country Park to hear and identify birds. Specially designed for early risers, people should meet at the gates to the park at the top of Innisfayle Park.
To register your interest, email cormachamill47@ gmail.com or phone 90291357.
Cave Hill will also be the setting for a unique Tai Chi ‘Chillin’ event as part of the Hills for Health Series on Tuesday, May 9 from 7pm to 8pm.
Tai Chi combines deep breathing and relaxation with slow and gentle movements. Originally developed as a martial art in 13th century China, Tai Chi is today practiced around the world as an extremely popular health-promoting and mental wellbeing exercise.
Booking is essential and you are asked to wear comfortable clothing and footwear. The event, which will refresh the mind and body, is free and booking is available online at www.belfasthills.org.
The exciting line up of events also includes Dance Fit, Nordic Walking, Trail Running and Park Run. No previous experience or fitness are required, just come along in some comfortable clothes and footwear and have a go.
Dr Lizzy Pinkerton Scheme Manager for the Belfast Hills Partnership said: “After the success of last year’s ‘Dance Fit on Divis’ night we decided to roll out a whole series of health events to help people to enjoy using the Belfast Hills while doing something a bit different.
“I’ve never had a go a Tai Chi before so I’m really looking forward to that night – hopefully lots of other people will also enjoy trying something new,” added Dr Pinkerton.
For more information on all the upcoming events, visit http://belfasthills.org/events/ for to book your free place. Places are limited so ensure that you book early to secure your space.
