Encouraging participation in activities which help to improve health and wellbeing has been one of the Abriachan Forest success stories. We incorporate a variety of different physical exercise options into the programmes offered to pupils and groups who attend. Some just enjoy a self-led stroll along the paths with their dog, others take to more dynamic Nordic Walking and schools often ask us to create specific "smart running" treasure hunt/orienteering activities for pupils. Some mountain bikers ride the existing trails, enjoy the views and also ask for black runs, whereas others are much more tentative and would appreciate a decent practice before they commit themselves to meeting challenges out on the trails. We have listened to requests and suggestions and hope to improve what is on offer through the following -

- a pre-cycle practice / mini-skills area with examples of green berms and blue gnarlies over in the windblown patch behind the toilets
- mapping part of the AFT path network for orienteering and within it to include a fixed literacy trail
- creating a low challenge course for team building/confidence raising
- 2 days of activity leader time each week

We hope to be applying for funding to support this LIFE CYCLES element of what we offer in the near future.


If you wish further information please contact 01463 861236 (day) or
01463 861259 (eve)

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The trails at Abriachan provide almost 30km of walking potential. Why not have try at go-faster Nordic walking - we have the poles and the trainers to ensure you choose a route suited to your level of fitness and your preference of panoramic picnic view.

Nordic walking uses specifically designed poles to engage the upper body during fitness walking. Nordic walking was first used as a summer training method for cross-country skiers. The chief attraction of Nordic walking is that it exercises the whole body. As walkers use their arms to push off from flexible poles, the whole range of upper body muscles is used, helping to strengthen the back and abdominal muscles. Nordic walking is especially good for those who have progressed from inactivity to moderate activity and are now looking for a more vigorous workout and for those suffering from joint problems. The Nordic walking poles act as two extra legs which take their share of the weight distribution resulting in less stress on the joints.


Nordic walking affords additional health benefits in that it exercises the whole body, allows a more physically intense walk and improves posture and stability.
Benefits:
• Increases caloric expenditure- by up to 40%
• Increases upper body strength
• Less stress on joints
• Relieves neck and shoulder pain
• Improves neck and chest mobility
• Increases safety of walking- stability afforded by poles reduces risk of falling
• Allows same intensity of running without high impact
• Lower perceived rate of exertion
• Enhances mood
• Fun and social
• Poles are a very useful aid for warm-up and stretching exercises



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Skills not Spills mountain bike courses for schools

mountainbiking is for everyone...

Getting on your bike regularly not only gets you where you want to go with less damage to the environment and often faster than in a car; it protects you against a wide range of health problems, and also makes you feel better. Mountain biking allows you to experience those far flung places the Highlands have to offer whilst providing the challenges of getting there safely.




Skills not spills is a mountain bike skills programme run at Abriachan Forest Trust specifically aimed at novice to intermediate riders. The programme is designed to build confidence on a mountainbike and offers achievable challenges taught by trained SMBLA coaches.

The Skills not Spills Skills not Spills programme is also offerd to school groups as part of a planned visit to Abriachan Forest. Mountain biking can be teamed up with Forest School activities to offer an exciting and fun packed adventurous day in the forest.

Why not come along and help develop the mountain bikng facilities at AFT. Groups regularly help with trail maintenance and construction. Recently a group from APEX Inverness designed, bench cut, dug, brashed, bridged and have now completed a new 2km section of red route - appreciated by the more daring riders of the trails and also by the walkers who take time to enjoy the magnificent views over the firth to Ben Wyvis and beyond.



AFT coaches work closely with Active Schools Coordinator to run mountain bike skills sessions in the forest.All tutors are Qualified scottish Cycling Level 2 coaches along with SMBLA tutor status. If you would like to bring your school or group for a skills session why not contact either simon or suzann (numbers can be found on the contact page)


Please contact us for prices


School multi activity programmes

Combining outdoor learning, Forest School and cycling, Abriachan Forest Trust run programs specifically aimed at improving not only health but also other core skills. This compelements the four capacities of the Curriciulum for excellence which are to enable young people to become:

succesful learners
confident individuals
responsible citizens
effective contributors

We can plan a bespoke programme that not only improves fitness levels but also develops confidence, raises self esteem and promotes communication skills.

Our multi activity programme recognises the need to promote healthy lifestyles and works positively with organisations and schools to promote this.

These programs can help your school achieve its health promoting aims by tailor making course specifically with your groups in mind.





New Go MTB cycle programs at Abriachan Forest Trust.

A NEW mountain bike proficiency course, designed by Cycling Scotland,The course will cover 4 themes riding skills, first aid, being independent and self supporting and sharing the outdoors. There are 5 levels of proficiency across these 4 themes.



Abriachan is one of only a few accredited centres in the Highlands offering this award. A great way to improve your skill level whilst gaining a nationally recognised award. The program runs for all ages and abilities and can be tailored to any specific groups. please contact simon for details.







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