The Forestry Commission is urging mountain bikers to head to its forests to uphold New Year resolutions to get fitter, and is keen to remind us all that they have over 1000km of trails across England for riding.

“Our forests have everything you need for a great day out cycling, from easy going trails to the adrenaline rushes of the more extreme mountain bike routes,” it states in a press release sent out today.

Pam Warhurst, Forestry Commission Chair says: “We all overindulge during the festive season so why not take up a new hobby in our forests as a fun and cheap alternative to a trip to the gym.

Research shows that people enjoy themselves more when exercising outdoors.  With so many classes and activities to choose from at Forestry Commission sites, we can help you stay healthy and fit.”

To that end it has launched a new section on its website, Forest Fit, reminding us of the benefits of mountain biking in your local woodland. Rather than an expensive gym membership, a Discovery Pass is a more affordable option for increasing your fitness, it claims. Head to www.forestry.gov.uk/forestfit to take a look.

They have over 1000km of trails and countless forest roads for you to explore, or why not try one of  their exciting events on offer. There are freeride sessions, time trials and Real Spin classes available, or if you want to learn a new skill sign up for mountain bike coaching which can be done by all ages and abilities.  For a fun alternative they also have fortnightly night rides through the forest.

More information on the trails at this website www.forestry.gov.uk/england-cycling

Here’s the full list of English woodlands:

• Abbots Wood
• Alice Holt
• Bedgebury Pinetum
• Bellever Forest
• Cannock Chase
• Cardinham Woods
• Chambers Farm Wood
• Chopwell Wood
• Dalby Forest
• Delamere Forest
• Dunwich Forest
• Forest of Dean
• Friston Forest
• Gisburn Forest
• Great Wood
• Grizedale Forest
• Guisborough Forest
• Haldon Forest Park
• Hamsterley Forest
• Haughmond Hill
• Hicks Lodge Cycle Centre
• High Lodge, Thetford Forest
• Jeskyns Community Woodland
• Kielder Forest
• Moors Valley Country Park
• New Forest
• Queen Elizabeth Country Park
• Rendlesham Forest
• Roslistion Forestry Centre
• Salcey Forest
• Savernake Forest
• Sense Valley Forest
• Sherwood Pines
• Thames Chase Community Woodland
• Top Lodge, Fineshade Woods
• Wendover Woods
• Westonbirt, The National Arboretum
• West Walk, Bere Forest
• Wharncliffe Wood
• Whinlatter Forest
• Wyre Forest