Olympic Champion Lizzy Yarnold Urges Brits to End Winter Hibernation
Double Olympic skeleton gold medallist Lizzy Yarnold is issuing a powerful call to action, urging the British public to stop 'hibernating' during the colder months and step outside to embrace the natural world. This appeal comes as new research commissioned by Corona Cero, the first non-alcoholic beer sponsor of the Olympic Winter Games, reveals that millions of Brits are missing out on the joys of outdoor adventures.
Study Reveals Widespread Avoidance of Winter Activities
A comprehensive poll of 2,000 adults has uncovered a startling trend: a significant portion of the population remains indoors during winter. The study found that 33% of adults effectively 'hibernate,' rarely venturing outside when temperatures drop. Furthermore, 43% believe that leaving the house in colder weather is more effort than it's worth, contributing to this seasonal retreat.
The research highlights a long list of nature-based activities that many Brits have never experienced. Key findings include:
- 79% of respondents have never tried outdoor ice skating, skiing, or snowboarding.
- Wild swimming and winter camping are among the activities that millions have yet to attempt.
- Trail running, hiking, and stargazing also feature prominently on the list of untried pursuits.
Despite this reluctance, the data shows a clear benefit to braving the elements. When people do make the effort to go outdoors, 30% report feeling refreshed and 15% feel more relaxed after spending time in nature.
Yarnold's Personal Connection to Nature
Lizzy Yarnold, a two-time Winter Olympic champion, has teamed up with fellow Olympians Matt Weston, Billy Major, and Katie Ormerod to star in a new inspirational film titled 'Dear Nature.' The film aims to encourage Brits to shake off winter monotony and reconnect with the outdoors.
"Nature has been by my side throughout my life as an athlete, from when I first stood on a snowy slope as a little girl to standing on top of the Olympic podium," Yarnold explained. "I hope this film acts as inspiration to the whole nation to step outside and embrace nature in the same way that the Team will in Milano-Cortina this winter."
Popular Outdoor Activities and Brand Initiative
For those who do venture out, the most common activities include walking around local neighbourhoods or parks (29%), exploring woodlands (18%), and heading to the coast (10%). These simple pursuits demonstrate that engaging with nature doesn't always require extreme sports or specialised equipment.
Jessica McGeorge-Stevens, spokesperson for Corona Cero, emphasised the brand's mission: "As a brand born in nature, Corona exists to remind us our best lives are lived outside, whether that's on the beach or in the mountains, but we are spending more of our time inside than ever before. Through 'Dear Nature,' we are heroing our athletes' unique relationship with the outdoors to inspire the nation to come out of hibernation and celebrate every golden moment regardless of the season."
Top 20 Outdoor Activities Brits Haven't Tried
The study compiled a detailed list of twenty outdoor activities that remain unexplored by many in the UK. This list serves as a potential inspiration for those looking to break their winter habits and try something new.
- Ice baths
- Trail running
- Winter camping
- Skiing/snowboarding
- Outdoor ice skating
- Wild swimming
- Mountain biking
- Kayaking/canoeing
- Pony trekking/horse riding
- Fishing
- Sledging
- Bird watching
- Stargazing
- Al fresco dining
- Hiking
- Skimmed stones on a lake
- Running
- Sunset watching
- Visited a nature reserve
- Dog walking
This initiative, championed by Olympic athletes and supported by research, highlights a critical opportunity for public health and wellbeing. By encouraging more outdoor activity, especially during the winter months, Brits can combat seasonal lethargy and discover new passions in the natural world.
