With the start of the new year, we all want to smash our new year's resolutions. What's the top of everyone's list? Becoming more active, of course! We have all put health as our number one priority in the past two years, and so many people want to be more active. When our motivation goes missing it's harder and harder to keep pushing; that's why the way we look at being active must be realistic.

Being active doesn't mean you should be hitting the gym 24/7. We should look at it holistically and implement everyday habits to help us sustainably achieve our goals. VisitScotland has created a list of ideas for fun winter days out that will help you be more active with as much as 50% off different tours and attractions. The offer is valid until the 18 of February, so don't wait up!

Coastal walks are great in winter because they are usually free from icy trails!

Walking is an excellent way of staying active, and it's often underestimated. Here are five benefits of walking outside.

It's a great mood booster

Runner's high is a well-known phenomenon, but did you know that walking can also lead to a walker's high? Walking helps boost your mood by increasing blood flow and blood circulation to the brain and body. During and after a walk, your brain releases "happy" chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine, which elevate your mood.

Wrap up warm for snowy dog walks!

It can help prevent memory loss

When you walk, you release a protein called BDNF, or brain-derived neurotrophic factor. It's associated with cognitive improvement, alleviating depression and anxiety, and encouraging the growth of new brain cells.

It lowers your blood pressure

Walking causes your heart to beat faster and pump more blood. Your blood pressure levels will decrease gradually as your heart begins to pump more blood with less effort. Furthermore, the muscle power needed to climb a road on an incline, a hill or a mountain can help you achieve a greater fitness level. Physical activity such as hiking can lower blood pressure by up to 10 points.

Happy dog walks!!

It can make you look younger

Walking and regular exercise supports the production of collagen and improves circulation. The boost in this protein helps to keep your skin firm, supple, and elastic.

Boosts the function of the immune system

A study followed 1,000 adults for one week during flu season. It found that those who walked 30 to 45 minutes a day for more than three months experienced 43 per cent fewer sick days and upper respiratory tract infections.

Winter Mountain Top - Morven, Aberdeenshire

Walking in winter mountains requires a good level of fitness, experience and knowledge, see our winter skills courses. See also our guided walks page too.

And remember, there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing!!

Thanks to Emma from Visit Scotland for helping to write this blog :)

The benefits of walking outside this winter

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