Everyone recognizes Scotland for its incredible scenery, the rolling green hills, the lochs, and stunning views from the top of every Munro. Challenging circumstances as a student can discourage you from getting outside. Thankfully, there are still accessible ways to touch some grass when you feel like your head is going to explode from exams or coursework. Although trying new things can be intimidating, let me reassure you that enjoying nature does not have to be.
I was never an outdoorsy person, eternally terrified of bugs, unathletic, and yet I regularly find myself putting on hiking boots and walking through muddy trails through rain, wind, and sun. This has genuinely helped my mental health, and although at times it’s been challenging and a little humiliating to be a beginner, I’ve been able to find spaces where I don’t feel the need to be absorbed into my coursework. Where I don’t have to be constantly worried about if my grades are good enough to justify staying at University.Â
Getting started with something new
As for actually starting new things, it’s important to remember that you might not be the best on the first try. It might be hard, and you might need the right people to push you through. With time, you will see your dedication flourish into unique rewards.
Hiking or camping is perhaps what most people think about when the outdoors is mentioned yet you could also try trail running. If you would like the benefits of the outdoors but aren’t quite ready for the full commitment, I would suggest bouldering, once you feel comfortable you can go out and find a nice rock to climb. The possibilities are endless, and the stress from city life will fade away.
Dipping your toe into nature
Maybe hiking or other trail activities sound far too intimidating at the moment and you would rather start slow. Climbing as a hobby is very easy to get into as there is no prior knowledge you need to have, everything can be discovered at whatever pace you like. There are a lot of misconceptions about who can or can’t climb, and the reality is that everyone can do it; you don’t need to be super strong and rep 10 pull ups, although that might help a bit. Being a beginner can be super embarrassing, especially when you are in a room watching people jump from the top of the wall after climbing something that seems absolutely insane for any human to actually do, but the tip that has helped me the most is to remember that everyone started somewhere. But where to actually start?
There is a variety of climbing gyms in Glasgow, all with different systems and climbing types. Wherever you start, whether with rope climbing or bouldering, most will offer beginners classes, rental shoes and a general idea of where to start. Out of all the gyms in Glasgow I will never stop recommending Brushworks in the city centre for bouldering as they have very accessible routes, lovely staff, and an incredibly supportive environment. When it comes to rope climbing check out Glasgow Climbing Centre (GCC), they have auto-belay routes which means you can do them alone but if you want to bring a friend you can learn how to belay each other. Be warned that for GCC and any other rope climbing you will need an introductory session to keep you safe.
In regards to wild swimming, you will need to be a confident swimmer and bring someone with you to stay safe, even the strongest swimmers can end up in risky situations. If this is something you wish to try then its best to check out the wild swim society at Glasgow uni, the polar bear club. They host trips, events and activities where you can get reset with a splash of cold water. Wild swimming is a great activity to try as it can improve your cardiovascular fitness and help your mental state into a healthier, more relaxed state, great for when you feel out of control. The benefit of living in Scotland is that you are allowed to swim in most inland waters due to the Land Reform (Scotland) Act of 2003 which also gives us the Right to Roam.
Tips for taking up hiking
All of these are relatively low impact activities and many can be combined: take a hike, find a nice loch, and go crazy. Perhaps that’s the real benefit, feeling the fresh air, walking in silence, paying attention to your body movements, letting your eyes relax after straining them constantly. But how do you get started? Here are some starting tips for taking up hiking:
- Find a pair of good, quality boots. This is possibly one of your biggest needs when considering hiking as you don’t want your shoe to get sucked into a bog (true story).
- Get the AllTrails app or see their website, check out some hikes that seem doable, make sure the elevation is appropriate for your fitness level. If you want to be able to get there via public transport make sure the hike starts near a town.
- Prepare, prepare, prepare! Check weather conditions, wear appropriate clothing and pack a small bag with enough water and a couple snacks to keep you going. It’s always better to have extra than to run out when you need it most. When it comes to weather conditions, similar rules apply, it’s better to be over-prepared for any condition changes than to suffer through it, especially in Scotland.
- Before you set off, let friends and family know where you are going, download your maps (as signal is not guaranteed), make sure your devices are fully charged, double check that you’ve got everything you need, and happy trails!
Why it’s worth it
In times of AI and social media addiction, it has never been more important to stress the importance of going outdoors. If you’ve been wanting to start a new hobby, then maybe this is your sign to start. If you’re hesitant, check out the GU Walking Society where they do regular trips and hikes for any level. Once you’re a bit more comfortable you could always try the Mountaineering Society. Starting something new at uni can feel stressful but it will come with benefits and possibly new friends. It’s a time in your life when the possibilities are endless, and it doesn’t have to drain your bank account either. Some places to look for gear are Decathlon who will have some great starting points, also check out Millets, Tiso, or Mountain Warehouse for student discounts and excellent advice on what gear you need and where to start looking.
Starting new things can be scary, let this be a reminder that it doesn’t have to be. Going outdoors is one of the easiest things you can do to improve your life while challenging yourself, and being in Scotland is the perfect inspiration to start. Whether you’re an absolute beginner who thinks being outdoorsy is only for “cool” people or someone who keeps putting this off, I hope you find the confidence to try because the scary bugs will still be there whether you stay in or go outside, and personally, its a lot better to be afraid while taking in a beautiful view.