Get fit in the New Year in Ilfracombe

Although many Ilfracombe People have been hit by the dreaded annual Christmas stomach bug this year, there are still those of us left feeling less than svelte after our yuletide overindulgence. Get a headstart on your 2012 health and fitness plan with our guide to getting in shape in Ilfracombe in the New Year.

There are lots of options for those of you wanting to work off all the mince pies and mulled wine in Ilfracombe this January. If you're struggling for cash after spending out on all those Christmas presents then walking is a great free way to tone up and get healthy. Those of us lucky enough to live in North Devon are situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that is filled with beautiful scenery and nature trails. Click here for a guide to some of the best local walks in our area.

 Ilfracombe Healthy Town also run fortnightly Walking for Health groups on alternate Thursdays at 11am. Meet outside the Landmark for a half hour gentle walk for people who prefer a slower pace; the next walk takes place tomorrow. Ilfracombe Healthy Town will also be holding free bike rides in the New Year including free bike hire, helmets and transport for cycles at Braunton Burrows, Barnstaple Tarka Trail and Wistlandpound Reservoir. For more information and to view other fun, low-cost healthy events taking place in Ilfracombe in 2012 visit the Ilfracombe Healthy Town website. 

If Santa's filled your stocking with spends this year, then investing in a yearly membership at Studio 20 on the High Street could save you money in the long run. If you prefer to try before you buy, they also offer a pay as you go option and weekly and monthly memberships. Described as "a must for after xmas!" by one reviewer in our business directory, Studio 20 is conveniently located in the centre of town and offers a full gym with cardio equipment and weights, as well as a variety of traditional and modern exercise classes including the latest craze Zumba as well as Spinning in their new spin studio. If you've heard about the new spinning classes and want to give it a go but have doubts about your fitness levels then worry no more. Starting on January 8th Studio 20 will be running a month-long Intro to Spinning course. In the weekly classes you can learn bike set up and all spinning moves at a beginners level. 

Sweating it out in the gym not your style? For a gentler exercise option visit Ilfracombe swimming baths to splash away those excess Christmas pounds, or take up Pilates at Ilfracombe's Body Aware Pilates Studio.

Or if even that seems too much effort, cheat your way to a firmer figure by seeking out your favourite local beauty salon and seeing what they have to offer in the way of weight-loss treatments and body wraps!

So what are you waiting for? Start planning now and get 2012 off to a great start by working off your winter weight in time for summer.