TeamWalking teaches the skills people need to explore further; skills that will last a lifetime
 and Mark Reid (R).jpg)
Many organisations are now pushing for us to get more active in the countryside, inspired by the growing evidence that it is good for us both physically and mentally. But fears such as getting lost, herds of cows, getting caught in a storm, where to go to the loo, how to read a map or plan a walk are preventing many of us from exploring further.
Millions of us venture into the countryside each year to walk, enjoy and relax, but many people have barriers that stop them exploring further, away from well-marked paths and well-used trails.
These barriers can range from a fear of getting lost, to herds of cows, not knowing where to walk legally, getting caught in a storm, where to go to the loo, how to read a map and plan an enjoyable walk.
Many organisations are now pushing for us to get more active in the countryside, inspired by the growing evidence that it is good for us both physically and mentally. Research suggests that humans have an innate connection with the natural world and a need to be connected to it, and that when we do re-connect with nature by going for a walk in the countryside then this lifts our mood and boosts our self-esteem.
But the fear of leaving the trodden track means that many people do not venture far from their cars or the honey-pot sites. Yet there is a wonderful world out there waiting to be discovered; a world of open hills and hidden valleys, wild flowers and bird song, breezy heights and breath-taking views. All we need are the skills to go and explore...
BREAK DOWN THOSE BARRIERS
Our TeamWalking Navigation Skills courses give people the skills and confidence to stride out and explore the countryside, secure in the knowledge that they will always know where they are, where they want to be and how to get there safely. These skills will last a lifetime and will help open up a whole new world of joyous exploration amongst the hills and valleys of this country.
After completing a 2-day navigation course, you will be able to plan and follow your own walks in the countryside, you will be able to read a map and use a compass and you will know what clothing and equipment to wear and take with you. Most importantly, you will never be lost again!
These TeamWalking Navigation Skills weekends are run throughout the year from various locations in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales, North York Moors or Peak District by Mark Reid, author of ‘The Inn Way’ guidebooks, and Richard Tarran, qualified mountain leader and personal development trainer. The courses are accredited to the National Navigation Award Scheme, with bronze, silver or gold navigator awards available.
ENGAGE BRAIN – rather than GPS - TO FIND YOUR WAY
Says Mark: “Our navigation skills courses attract both novice and experienced walkers who want to learn new skills and improve their confidence within a small group of like-minded people who want to learn. Our courses are not just about learning how to use a map and compass, but we take a holistic approach to the outdoors by also looking at weather, route planning, essential kit and environmental impact.”
“People are interested in learning skills that will last a lifetime; skills that require you to think and problem-solve; skills that mean you are aware of your surroundings. Contrast this with a GPS unit that feeds you information – the key is knowing what to do with that information and then apply it practically on the ground.
“Having the confidence to stride out across the hills is truly liberating, for the open hills are inspirational places that engender a sense of space and freedom. And with a calorie burn of around 400 an hour, hill-walking is a great way to get fit. But there’s much more to walking than just exercise. It’s a multi-sensory activity where you can really appreciate our wonderful countryside at your own pace. So many aspects of our lives are now lived at a fast pace where we’re in constant contact with the outside world through modern media. What we need to do is get disconnected from our modern lives and reconnected to the natural world – even if it’s just for a day.
TeamWalking Navigation Skills weekend courses
Our 2-day Navigation Skills courses are designed for adults, with group sizes of six people. Courses run from March to November 2011, and are accredited to the National Navigation Award Scheme. The weekend course costs £99 per person for two-day’s navigation training, work-book and use of outdoor gear, map and compass.
We also run 1-day basic navigation courses in conjunction with the National Trust at Fountains Abbey, North Yorkshire (World Heritage Site) as well as a range of outdoor experiences from night navigation to a mini ‘Inn Way’ walking break.
For further information visit www.teamwalking.co.uk
ENDS 17/02/11
