Scotland's great outdoors is ideal for combining exercise and scenery

The head of one of Scotland’s leading conservation charities said people can save themselves money – and get a much better view – by taking making the country’s great outdoors their gym.

From hillwalking to kayaking, the nation’s natural heritage offers top value to families looking to increase their health and wellbeing.

The call to the wilds was made by Sir Kenneth Calman, chairman of the National Trust for Scotland as the charity prepares for the Year of Active Scotland in 2011.

Sir Kenneth, formerly chief medical officer in Scotland and then in England expressed his firm belief in health benefits of getting out into the countryside.

He said: “Scotland’s landscape is the best gym you could ask for and there are so many ways to take advantage of the natural heritage on our doorstep.

Sir Kenneth Calman: 'Trust land is perfect alternative to the treadmill'

“Whether it’s enjoying a brisk low level walk through Glencoe or a more challenging march up one of our 46 munros, the trust can offer you the perfect alternative to the treadmill.

“In the spring, you can take to the water in a sea kayak at Kintail and the woodlands in Perthshire are perfect for family hikes at all time of year.

“We all know the benefits of exercise, but combine that our stunning scenery and it is a winning combination – and it’s all free. Why not make 2011 the year you resolve to get active and see some of Scotland’s most scenic spots at the same time?”

The conservation charity has in its care almost 81,000ha (200,000 acres) of countryside, 46 munros, seven national nature reserves, 45 sites of special scientific interest and the UK’s only dual World Heritage Site, St Kilda.

Minister for public health and sport Shona Robison backed the call, saying: “Active Nation is about getting active, having fun and feeling good.

“It aims to energise and motivate all Scots to increase their physical activity in the run up to the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games and beyond. That will be a games legacy Scotland can be truly proud of.

“In Scotland we have some of the world’s most spectacular scenery on our doorstep and what better way for people to increase their levels of physical activity than enjoying all that this country has to offer.”