Just under an hour’s drive from home is the beautiful Brecon Beacons National Park. In attempts to
keep in good health and get in shape, I often plan trips to the various walks,
trails and hikes in the local spectacular scenery. I headed to the area known as Waterfall Country
where an unusually
large number of publicly accessible falls are to be found.
Views from the top
On bank holiday Monday I stopped in Ystradefellte at the Cwm
Porth car park (£4 for the day). Ystradfellte
is a small village, which won Powys Village of the Year in 2004. The tiny village is a very popular stop off
for tourists to visit the waterfalls and caves.
In previous visits I have seen groups coasteering and caving. It has a small 16th Century church
and pub, and post office which is only open for 2 hours a day
Monday-Friday.
The falls - you can walk behind the water
The lush wooded valley landscape is a moderate to advanced
walk that takes in the picturesque scenery and waterfalls. For those who are overweight or out of shape it
really is a great aerobic exercise. Hiking
boots are not essential, however I would recommend a good pair of trainers as
there is uneven terrain and some steep steps.
The river trail
I was intrigued to know if walking could improve your body
shape, or help lose or reduce belly fat. Upon doing research I learnt that walking is a great starting
point for anyone looking to begin an exercise program and is a staple for many
who exercise frequently. Like
cardiovascular exercise, walking burns calories. So moving more, and getting your legs moving
can help with weight loss, getting toned and tightened your figure. As fitness levels improve, you can walk for
longer and at a faster pace. Adding
intensity such as adding hills will also improve your physique – so yes, hiking
can help you lose weight and tone your body.
Walking in nature is also a great way to help with mental
health. City dwellers (so… me!) also
have a higher risk for anxiety, depression and other illnesses than people
living outside urban areas. It improves
self-perception and self-esteem, mood and sleep quality. In older people, staying active can improve
cognitive function and memory can reduce the risk of cognitive decline and
dementia.
Obligatory sheep picture
I would highly recommend those living in south Wales or from
further afield Visiting Brecon to explore the area. With fascinating scenery including hills,
lakes, caves, forests and of course the waterfalls there is so much to
discover. Especially the plentiful towns
and villages with characterful country pubs, which are always my favourite part
of the visit.
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