Peak Running, a dedicated group of outdoor enthusiasts, is on a mission to remove barriers preventing people from experiencing the transformative benefits of exercising outdoors.

And they are offering sessions in the Coalville area next month.

Peak Running says it is well known that spending time outside, surrounded by nature, has many benefits, including improving mental wellbeing as well as physical health.

But they add it is not always easy for some people to get out there to benefit from exploring the woodlands and countryside.

A fear of getting lost, personal safety, lack of skills, confidence levels, or simply not having anyone to go with can be real barriers for people who may also feel they simply do not have the right level of fitness to start exercising outdoors.

To address this gap, Peak Running, a Derbyshire based CIC, is in the process of training eight new activity leaders for its innovative Trail Therapy events, thanks to a grant from the National Forest Company.

What makes Trail Therapy different is the flexibility it offers. Most of the routes provide the option to jog or walk, catering to individual preferences and abilities.

Participants are encouraged to embrace the beauty of their surroundings, immersing themselves in the healing power of nature without feeling pressured to run or go faster than they're comfortable with.

Andy Brooks, founder of Peak Running, said: "We firmly believe that exercise should be inclusive, offering enjoyment to everyone.

"For a while now, we have been organising regular weekly off-road trails of approximately five miles, witnessing remarkable transformations in the fitness, confidence, and well-being of our participants. Strong friendships have blossomed within our community."

"However, we recognise that our impact has only scratched the surface of those who could benefit from this kind of activity.

"So, we're thrilled that, with the help of a National Forest Society Grant, we're able to increase the number of Trail Therapy running and walking activities we do across the National Forest area."

These guided sessions, held across the National Forest, typically last between 75 and 90 minutes and are led by supportive leaders, ensuring that nobody feels pressured or gets left behind. The leaders set a comfortable pace for the group, fostering an inclusive environment.

Most of the routes offer a jog or walk option, so there is no need for people to run if they do not want to.

No special equipment is needed, other than suitable footwear, and if you are joining an activity that has a walk option, you just need to be capable of walking the distance at a relaxed pace, be able to climb over any stiles on the route and be okay with ground that may be a little uneven or muddy in places.

For jogging activities, if you can complete Parkrun or equivalent distance (three miles) in 45 minutes or less you should be fine.

Although some activities can be a little further, the leaders tend to walk any challenging hills and have plenty of stops to take in the surroundings and let everyone get their breath back.

Katie Heelas is one of the new Trail Therapy leaders

Peak Runners say the emphasis on all these activities is to enjoy some exercise in natural surroundings with a friendly and supportive atmosphere, rather than to push anyone to go faster than would be comfortable and the leaders will always make sure nobody gets left behind.

Katie Heelas, 36, is one of the new Trail Therapy leaders.

She applied after a friend told her about it and said: "When my friend mentioned putting myself forward for the trail therapy leader role, it initially took me by surprise.

"But as I thought about the idea, how much I had benefited from both walking and running out in the beautiful countryside, and the positive effects nature has had on my mental health, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to give back and help others.

"As humans, I don't believe we get out in nature as much as we should.

"Spending the bulk of our time binge-watching Netflix, glued to phones and computers, with the long winters herding us indoors for long periods even more so.

"I can say with confidence that once we do get out in clean open air, there really is nothing like it. Reconnecting ourselves with nature and spoiling our senses promotes positive living for sure."

The Trail Therapy activities are free to join, although donations to help cover costs are always welcome.

Join the group on their next Trail Therapy adventures:

• August 1, 9.45am Sence Valley, 5-mile jog or 3-mile walk.

• August 7, 6.30pm Bardon Hill, 2.75-mile jog or walk

• August 15, 9.45am Thringstone, 2-mile walk

Or keep an eye on the website for details of the August bank holiday special event with numerous trails and options on offer.

For more information and to get involved, click HERE.