Park Run Tourism By Dawn – Belvoir Castle Park Run 22 February 2025
Park Run Tourism by Dawn – Belvoir Castle Park Run 22 February 2025.
Belvoir Castle Park Run
It felt as though Spring had finally arrived as I set off on my journey from my home on the outskirts of Lincoln towards Belvoir Castle. The journey was very pleasant with the early Saturday morning roads being quiet. The journey took just one hour which included stopping to take a picture of Belvoir Castle.
There is a large car park at Belvoir Castle which is free to use for runners until 12.00pm. Toilets are conveniently located to the left of the main gates.
Introductions
I introduced myself to Ross, the Run Director for the morning. We chatted all things related to the course and he provided me with some insight into the hill sections. This bit of inside knowledge proved to be invaluable as I navigated the course.
Just Run Community
Having voted to be ‘tourists’ at Belvoir Castle today the Just Run Community Lincoln gathered for a pre run photo. Modelling our new kit, there is no way anyone could miss us running. Bright and cheerful just like our members. Our group has been up and running for nearly a year now. We’re more than happy to welcome you if you would like to join us on a run in the Lincoln area.
Tourists and first time park runners gathered to hear Lewis tell us all about the course. There was a lot of information to take on board with the stand out information being the cattle grid (covered for ease of crossing) and the accompanying smells! The Run Director went on to explain that Belvoir Castle is a closed course, something I hadn’t come across before.
A closed course means there are no spectators. The only people to go through the gate are the park runners, walkers. and volunteers. I wondered if this would have a negative impact on the overall atmosphere? I can categorically confirm that it does not!
Working Estate
As Belvoir Castle is a working estate we were also advised to be vigilant for vehicles moving around the course and for this reason headphones are not advised.
Climb To The Start
The climb up to the start gives you a good idea what sort of hills you will be tackling on the course itself. At the junction, part way up, outer tops and coats can be tied to the railings to collect on your way home as you don’t return to the start area once you’ve completed the course. I initially felt a bit chilly once but having climbed those steps I soon warmed up again. Once on the start line I waited with anticipation for the run to begin.
Ready, Steady, Go
A gentle descent took us through the Japanese and Kennel Woodlands. I noticed a beautiful pink shrub (planted I’m sure to match our club colours!) and snow drops. There was so much to see I suggested we made it more of a social run, rather than push for a fast time. We all made it across the bridge between the upper and lower Belvoir lakes and over the covered cattle grid with only a waft of the aforementioned ‘smell’.
The faster runners could now be seen heading back down the hill toward us, so it’s important to keep to the right to avoid collisions. Everyone was shouting encouragement to those pushing to climb the hill and to those that had conquered it.
The Long Slow Climb
I was prepared for the long slow climb, having read the course description before coming to Belvoir and having chatted to Lewis and Ross for those insiders details. I was running with Lucy who is also a Just Run Community member. We paced ourselves, focused on our form and encouraged each other to the top. I’m not going to lie, it was hard work but the reward is to turn round and head back down. Oh the relief!
Don’t get too confident though as you’re not done with the hills just yet!
As we headed down the hill and round by the stables I chatted to a fellow runner Rachel. We all agreed this was a lovely Park Run setting and such a privilege to be allowed to run here. Rachel told us there were usually horses to stroke on the way past the stables. Today we only saw one pony, but it’s something to look out for on future runs at Belvoir Castle.
Are We There Yet?
The climb back to the castle initially didn’t feel too bad. I do admit to having to walk on several occasions, which I put down to having been unwell earlier in the month. The walk seemed to give me the energy to run up the final incline, a real killer for both my lungs and legs.
What Lucy and I didn’t realise was how close the finish line was to the brow of the hill. The sheer relief of having finished saw us both sprint for the finish to collect our tokens.
Belvoir Castle Park Run
We caught up with Lauren and Emma to make our way down the steps and collect our tops. The rest of the Just Run Communitywere waiting for us and we all agreed that it is a fabulous course. Thoughts quickly turned to returning later in the year to try the summer course. The summer course is a trail run in the fields and woodlands on the opposite side of the road from the Castle.
Post Run Coffee
Park run coffee, or in my case ‘hot chocolate’ is a must. The Vale View Cafe is located in the car park for post run drinks and snacks. The staff in the cafe were really friendly. We chatted in general about Belvoir Castle, its grounds and how much I enjoyed the course.
The Verdict
I loved Belvoir Castle Park Run, despite the hills! When I visit a new destination I score the park runs on 10 different categories in order to be objective and decide if I should return. Obviously I’m going to return as I want to run the whole course and conquer those hills! I would also love to do the Summer trail course too.
From the moment I arrived I was made to feel welcome by everyone. Today there were 144 runners and walkers supported by 17 amazing volunteers. The setting is unique and I can imagine there will be something different to see as the seasons change. The coffee shop is small, more of a kiosk (a very nice kiosk I may add). I didn’t notice any indoor seating, but you could always take your drink to your car if it’s raining.
There is absolutely nothing that would put be off from returning to Belvoir Castle Park Run, it’s definitely up there as one of my favourites.
Park Run Tourism By Dawn – Normanby Hall Park Run 26 October 2024
Park Run Tourism by Dawn – Normanby Hall Park Run 26 October 2024.
First Impressions
Normanby Hall was easy to find, it has plenty of car parking space with an overflow car park if required. I displayed a spare bar code in my windscreen which enables you to park for free until 11.00am. It’s a short walk from the car park to the front of Normanby Hall and the start of the park run.
Early Preparations
To prepare myself for the run in advance I looked up the course description. The Course is described as being on a mixture of tarmac paths and trails. A little further research advised that there were only two very short trail sections and by using google maps I could see that most of the run was likely to be through the woodland. I was unclear at this stage if it was a one lap course but Jason explained at the first timers brief that it was three loops. It sounded quite complicated, but describing it as a park run conga, where everyone just followed the person in front simplified it.
The park itself is stunning, especially as the trees are now displaying every coloured leaf possible. I love my local park run, Boultham Park and every tourist park run I attend gets assessed based on it. It’s a hard act to follow. However, Normanby Hall Country park is a completely different sort of park run; more on the lines of Belton House park run, so it would be fairer to compare the two.
Today I was joined by Adam and Lucy, two of the crew for Just Run Community Lincoln. We are a new running group and more than happy if you would like to join us on a run.
The park run itself starts in front of Normanby Hall. Patricia, our run director for the morning delivered the safety briefing before everyone assembled at the start. It’s a very wide area with everyone spread out across it. For me it felt like a slow start, in hindsight I probably started too far back so it took me some time to find my pace. Lesson learned! Having found my pace we turned on to a narrow path which took us through the first wooded area. It was hard to overtake on this section as the path is really narrow which I found a little frustrating.
Normanby Hall
A right turn brings you back onto the wide path. Back past the front of the Normanby Hall and the cheering volunteers. The course continues down the side of the deer park where I was really hoping to catch a glimpse of the Red Deer. It’s the middle of the rutting season so the Stags are expected to have some majestic antlers (see photo below). One of the other runners suggested we look out for the white deer. Unfortunately during the run I didn’t get to see any deer, but a short walk before I headed home paid dividends with one of the stags standing still long enough for me to get a photo.
The Woodland
One of my favourite places to run is a small woodland near to where I live so I was really looking forward to running through the woodland at Normanby Country Park. It didn’t disappoint! The leaves are changing colour, so many shades of yellow and orange but with the odd pop of red from the Acer tree. The paths were covered in a colourful carpet of leaves. I didn’t find it slippery but it’s worth taking care especially on the corners.
There were two little bridges, a stream and a pond hidden in the woodland as well as some wood carvings to hold your interest. Don’t forget to look up too. There is a Go Ape course running through the woodland, so if you’re feeling brave and adventurous maybe head back another day.
Treasures Of Normanby Hall
The Finish
I was so busy looking around I can’t really remember how we ended up in front of the Hall again. Running up towards the Wedding Gates to do a final lap through the little woodland and back to the finish. The park was much quieter than my local park in Lincoln but so much bigger. There was a peacefulness about both the park and the run. When you next pay a visit I’m sure you’ll agree that it’s a great place to run mindfully.
There were 35 first timers to Normanby Hall Park run today and a total of 12 personal bests.
Post Run Coffee And Walk
There is a fabulous little coffee shop where the three of us enjoyed a coffee whilst debriefing. Everyone we met was really friendly and I overheard some ‘doggy’ owners discussing how their dogs had been treated to a sausage. It’s not your usual coffee shop that’s for sure! I managed a quick walk round in front of the hall to take some photos and then popped into the gift shop before heading home.
The Verdict
Belton House V Normanby Hall Park Run I scored the parks on 10 different categories so I could be objective. Both runs are set in a Country Park settings, with ample car parking. There is more of a Woodland feel to Normanby and both have deer parks. The start and finish are very similar. Normanby has less runners, just 150 today which made for a very friendly atmosphere. The cafe at Belton has a slight edge on Normanby but I wouldn’t let that put me off from returning.
I personally love to run through wooded areas so on that basis alone I would rate Normanby slightly higher that Belton. I will definitely be back as I would love to see the park in the spring.
Park Run Tourism By Dawn – Market Harborough Park Run 17 August 2024
Park Run Tourism by Dawn – Market Harborough Park Run 17 August 2024. Having arranged to visit my sister in Ullesworth and stay for a a couple of days I obviously looked up the nearest park run. To be honest I was hoping there would be one a little nearer than Market Harorough. However, I wasn’t going to miss the opportunity to run at a different park run despite the earlier start and extra traveling distance.
Boultham Park V Welland Park
To prepare myself for the run I looked up the course description. What struck me first was how similar it sounded to my local Park Run in Boultham Park, Lincoln.
Both involve three laps of the park and are obviously in a park. I love my local park run and every tourist park run I attend gets assessed based on it. It’s a hard act to follow. Or is it?
On arrival I pulled into the ‘Farndon Road’ car park only to find it full. I asked a local about parking who advised trying the ‘Welland Park Road’ car park or failing that ‘The Commons’ car park. Luck was on my side and I slipped into a space at the ‘Welland Park Road’ Car park. The car parks are really small as it states on the course web site. If you are from out of area you need to have a back up plan for parking and don’t rely on the ones on site. For more information on your chosen park run visit www.parkrun.org.uk. (@parkrunUK)
Sisters
Safely parked, I jogged into the Park and followed the signs to what I thought was the first time brief area. I arrived at the volunteers meeting point and got chatting to regular volunteers & sisters Ann, Dot & Lynette. I was made to feel very welcome, so thank you ladies. They kindly informed me where the first time brief was and the toilets so another jog back toward the carpark. I arrived at the first timers brief just as it was finishing (Sorry Pete!). Emma, another park run tourist and first timer at Market Harborough quickly filled me in. There were no surprises to be had, all seemed fairly standard.
Welland Park, Market Harborough Park Run #132
Park Run Tourism By Dawn – Market Harborough – The Start
I headed to the start line with Emma to discover there were pacers ready to support the runners looking for new PBs. The run director, Mike, delivered a safety talk, giving a shout out to the volunteers, pacers and to those with milestones. As soon as he was finished he counted down 3,2,1 and we were off.
The start was a little congested, especially as we ran from the wider start path to the narrower path round the first turn. However, it didn’t take long for the runners to spread out and I soon found my pace. I could see the 29 minute pacer in front so decided that was my aim for the run.
Anyone For Tennis?
As I was running I looked around. The park was much busier than my local park in Lincoln. Both the tennis courts and the children play area were busy. It was obvious that there were families of runners in the play area looking out for their mum or dad. I had hoped that my Nephew was going to bring his children down from Lubenham to do the same. Unfortunately they had chosen this week to go to Devon. Maybe next time?
The River Wellend
The river Welland runs down the left side of the course and can be seen through the trees. At the end of this path you loop around to run back on yourself ready to repeat the lap again. Ann and Dot were stood here, shouting encouragement to everyone as they ran past. This is the only section where you have runners heading in the opposite direction so it’s important that you keep left. On the second lap this section resembles a dual carriage way, with the faster runner overtaking. However, it was not a problem as its a lovely wide path.
The Finish
On my last lap I chatted to one or two other runners and offered encouragement to them to get them across the finish line. One young lady came up and thanked me at the end which I thought was really kind. I caught up with Emma, who said how much she enjoyed her first run at Welland Park and she commented that the park made for the best warm up she had ever done. The park truly is beautiful and well kept, so take time to look around after your run.
Guided Runners
There were two runners with guides on the course today. Amanda was guiding Vanessa and Andy was guiding Simon. I managed to catch up with Andy and Simon as they finished their final lap. It was Andy’s 80th guided run which had not all been with Simon who was on his 80th Park run. What fantastic achievements.
Guided running. Andy and Simon
Post Run Coffee
There is a fabulous little coffee shop and a kiosk selling coffee, cakes, pastries and ice creams. I grabbed an ice lolly and sat in the shade chatting to a runner who was local to the area. Everyone was really friendly just like my local park run.
The Verdict.
Boultham Park V Welland Park. I scored the parks on 10 different categories so I could be objective. Both parks had similar courses, finish set ups and a friendly atmoshere. Boultham scored better on car parking facilities but the cafe and outside seating at Welland outshone Boultham. Overall they came out equal and I would definitely come back.
Park Run Tourism By Dawn – Belton House 29 June 2024
Park Run Tourism by Dawn – Belton House on 29 June 2024. There are some serious park run tourists out there, visiting A-Z of park runs around the Globe. I don’t consider myself to be one of them. However, I do confess that if invited to a Wedding, on a weekend away or holiday, the first thing I do is look up the nearest park run. Surely I’m not the only one?
Today I’m with some of the ‘Just Run Lincoln’ crew who are on our monthly tourist tour, visiting different park runs. I already have experience of the course, having been twice before. It’s a two lap course taking you down the long drive, around parkland and past the front of the magnificent Belton House. I would say the course is 80% trail. That’s very different from what our crew is use to.
Park Run Tourism at Belton House
Park Run Tourism By Dawn – Belton House The Start
After a short first timer/ tourist brief we took our places at the start. The start covers an exceptionally wide area with runners on both the grass and the drive. This made for an easier start with no bottle necks. The number of dogs was particularly noticeable and audible. However, both owners and dogs were all very well behaved during the run.
By the time we had reached the turning point (about midway down the drive) the pack had thinned out making it easy to move onto the trail section. A family of swans could be seen sat at the corner watching everyone with interest. With eyes back on the trail it was time to focus on the rabbit holes. I needn’t have worried though as they were marked with little white flags.
Sheep On The Run!
A glance to the right and I could see the park deer in the far field then I noticed the sheep. OMG the sheep were running on mass directly towards the next corner. Watching the runners and sheep ahead I could see that all were being very courteous. Both the runners and sheep seemed to dodge each other without effecting pace. What a relief!
The course isn’t entirely flat as you will find as you run up towards the house to the start of the second lap and eventually the finish funnel. The good news is that final section is flat, wide and on a path. There was plenty of scope to pick up the pace for a fast finish.
Post Run Coffee
Having cheered each other in we piled into the stables cafe to refuel and dissect our run. The others hadn’t run Belton before and were all surprised it was a trail run. The takeaway point here is read the write up www.parkrun.org.uk to avoid surprises. (@parkrunUK)
We will be voting on our next park run tour in the coming weeks but in the meantime it’s back to the training. If you fancy a bit of tourism yourselves head to the friendliest park run I know (of course I am biased !) in Boutham Park, Lincoln Happy running everyone.
Mandarin Fitness Detox – Did you over indulge over the Christmas holidays? Perhaps Easter was a chocolate fest? Are you ready to detox?
When Is The Best Time?
The simple answer is ‘NOW’
Now is the time detox. In fact, you’re already doing it. You don’t need to buy a special drink or go on a special ‘detox’ diet so put your credit card away.
Mandarin Fitness Detox – Every Day
Your body is detoxifying itself every single day of your life. It does it 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, every year since the day you born.
If your body stops detoxifying itself, get medical help as a matter of urgency!
What Do You Need To Know About Detox?
The End
That’s it! There is no more to say about ‘detox’ other than to remind you to save your money by not believing the adverts that telly otherwise.
If you like this blog please do feel free to comment. Likewise, if you would like any other health and fitness advice please do feel free to contact me.
Here is a new series of blogs for you, starting with ‘Mandarin Fitness Weight Loss’ tips for the New Year.
With 33 years experience as a Personal Trainer I’m here to help you on your journey to health and happiness.
Over Indulged?
Christmas has been and gone already! Did you buy enough chocolates, alcohol, savoury snacks and treats to last the day…..week?
I’ve heard it said that many people consume around 4000 ‘extra’ Calories per day over the Christmas holidays. To put this into perspective; in order to burn off 1Lb of body fat you’ll need to burn an ‘extra’ 3500 Calories. Those ‘extra’ Calories means an awful lot of exercise! Read on for useful tips.
Mandarin Fitness Weight Loss – Don’tDespair
Don’t despair…
Gaining 5Lb (2-3kg) over the Christmas period isn’t really such a big deal so don’t despair. Body weight naturally fluctuates on a daily basis so resist the temptation to succumb to the advertising hype from the big companies. You ‘will’ be bombarded with the latest eating craze, special diets and prepared meals from all of the media and social media channels. ‘Don’t Despair – Do Resist’ the temptation to follow the crowd. Hold onto your money (at least until you’ve finished reading this blog) because you may find some simple and cheaper alternatives.
The Six Pack
Your 6 pack is always there but sometimes it needs a bit of work to tone it up. You’ll need to be very lean (very little body fat) to be able to see it, but it is there
For those of you who know me, you’ll know that I don’t particularly subscribe to the ‘six pack’ club. My preferred mantra is ‘healthy’ rather than obsessive. Don’t get me wrong though, the ‘six pack’ is good – but it’s just not a realistic goal for everyone. So, what can the answer be for those of us who don’t aspire to that type of figure or realistically understand that the ‘lean, mean, fighting machine’ body is never going to be achievable?
Here are some simple rules:
Don’t feel guilty if you think you over indulged over the Christmas period.
Love yourself as you are.
Aspire to be healthy, pain free and able to move freely.
Be prepared to make small changes on a regular basis to make sure you reach your goals.
Be active and stay active.
I can think of many more rules but these five will hold you in good stead for the foreseeable future.
We all know that the consequences of over indulgence and not enough exercise can be fatal. Don’t obsess with your fitness and weight loss programme though. There are some simple changes that you can implement to help make lasting changes.
Mandarin Fitness Weight Loss – Small Changes
If you’re asking yourself “what should I do to help myself?” try starting with these simple tips:
Make small, healthy changes to your diet.
Don’t rush to make big changes all at once. The smaller changes are more likely to become habits that will be long lasting.
Don’t run a marathon! Over exercising is the biggest cause of injury and it happens ‘every’ New Year! Becoming a statistic isn’t part of the game plan.
Invest in appropriate clothing and footwear.
Join a structured club or class that you are likely to enjoy. If you don’t enjoy the exercise you probably won’t stick at it.
Walking Is Free
Our digital age provides technology to help motivate us. In addition we have nice cameras on our phones so we can use them to help give us a reason for walking.
There are many free Apps available to help track our walks and activity. As an iPhone user I utilise the built in fitness App to track my activity and walks for myself and my client sessions. Other Apps available including ‘Map My Walk’ and ‘Strava’. A photo taken during the walk is a lovely way to record your activity too.
If you normally drink a late or cappuccino coffee try swapping it for an Americano coffee. Likewise, if you always eat ready meals, challenge yourself to cook a healthy meal instead. If you have a takeaway meal every week change it to once a month.
If you don’t normally go for a walk try starting off with 1 mile (1.5km) at a time on a daily basis. Your fitness levels ‘will’ improve and your weight ‘will’ reduce. These very simple change ideas can make a world of difference to your life. Adapting the idea to suite yourself is a perfect way to make permanent changes.
Mandarin Fitness Weight Loss – Superfoods
There is no such thing as a ‘superfood’. I’ll say that again in case you aren’t sure what you just read: THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS SUPERFOOD!
Don’t be fooled by the adverts on TV.
Mandarin Fitness Weight Loss – Exercises
Here are a few ideas for exercises that you might find useful. Don’t forget to start off gently to avoid injury. It’s better to stop while you’re feeling good than to push to fatigue then suffer the consequences later.
Mandarin Fitness Weight Loss Challenge
Small changes make all the difference. Challenge yourself to make a few small changes this month.
If you would like more help or information you can contact Martin on 07966 174878
Nordic Walking In Lincolnshire With Mandarin Fitness
Nordic Walking in Lincolnshire with Mandarin Fitness. It’s suitable for all levels from complete beginner to seasoned athlete
It ‘is’ just walking with poles! You may be surprised to learn that there is some technique to master before you can truly call yourself a Nordic walker though. Thankfully Mandarin Fitness is here to guide you so read on for more information.
Martin from Mandarin Fitness has over 32 years experience in the health and fitness industry and runs weekly classes. As a result, you can rest assured that you are benefitting from a wealth of experience and learning from one of the best.
Nordic Walking In Lincolnshire (Lincoln) Monthly Timetable
Client safety is always a priority so please do check here for any updates and changes to the timetable.
Location Change
As the British weather can be so unpredictable we may need to change the locations from time to time when bad weather makes certain locations difficult or dangerous. Please keep your eyes on this blog for any updates.
Evening Sessions
If you would like me to organise some additional sessions in the evenings please let me know.
Heading into June we’re all hoping that the weather will be nice. However, just in case, I sometimes produce two timetables with interchangeable days to accommodate good weather or rainy/muddy days:
Nordic Walking Master Instructor
Qualified as a Master Nordic Walking instructor in 2007 and level 3 Personal Trainer in 1991 Martin is the man to go to for your safe tuition.
Getting to Grips…
Getting to grips with the basics is key to learning Nordic Walking. Martin will show you how and when to grip the poles and when to release. You’ll even learn the Nordic Walking ‘swagger’!
With one arm forward the other should swing back whilst pushing on the pole to propel you forward (similar to marching with poles). You’ll learn to grip, release, twist, push and stride simultaneously.
The whole package is the goal but it’s important to start with the basics and build on the technique as each skill is learned. The technique can take anything from 10 minutes to 6 weeks to master. One or two clients have taken to it immediately while others need to learn at a slightly slower pace. Whatever learning level you are at, Martin will help you to achieve your goal of learning Nordic Walking.
Beginners Nordic Walking
With the right instructor there is no need to have to join a dedicated beginners Nordic Walking class. Getting the technique right at ‘your’ pace is the most important consideration for beginners because it will help build confidence. Learning to walk with poles as tools is important so get used to holding the poles and discover how you naturally start to utilise them as time goes on.
To begin the learning journey, start with a loose grip of the handles then walk with your arms locked down by your sides. Progress (within around 15-20 seconds) to relaxing your shoulders and arms then note how they naturally swing as you walk. At this stage you should be dragging your poles. Once you feel comfortable with this you should try to exaggerate the arm swing. If (or when) you feel it going strong simply keep walking but lock your arms down by your sides ad start the process again.
Getting To Grips With Nordic Walking
Learning to grip, release, swing, push, pick up, chat, laugh, enjoy the scenery and company will all come in time. It takes a little patience and some expert instruction but you will definitely master it! Martin is here for you and the group members are always keen to welcome you to the group.
Know Your Limits
You’ll be reminded throughout that your limits are personal to you so it’s important to be the best ‘you’ can be. Copying others and feeling that you have to ‘keep up’ is a good way to pick up an injury. To avoid injuries you must do what is comfortable and resist temptation to push too hard. Martin will have a watchful eye on you all the time – even when you don’t realise that he is watching!
Nordic Walking In Lincolnshire – Benefits And Exercise In Disguise
Nordic Walking encourages participants to include upper body actions to a greater extent than normal walking. The perception is that the hour long session was just a normal walk but the reality is that participants can burn up to 40% more Calories just by using the poles properly. That’s a huge benefit over normal walking without poles. In addition to the Calorie burning benefits, there are also the social benefits to consider as well as the balance aids the poles give for those who are less steady on their feet.
Walking in the fresh air is a well documented stress buster, as is laughing and social interaction. You’ll get all of these things in abundance when you’re Nordic Walking with a group.
Injury need not be a reason to not take up Nordic Walking. On the contrary, Nordic Walking can be a great benefit when on the road to recovery after injury or illness. Join a class today to start getting the benefits of Nordic Walking.
Mandarin Fitness provides the right coaching at the right level to make sure your workout is safe and effective.
Classes In Lincoln
Classes are held each Saturday morning in the Lincoln, Lincolnshire area from 10.30am. All abilities are welcome to come along so contact Martin on 07966 174878 for more information and to book your session and poles. The updated timetable is posted each month here and on the Mandarin Fitness Facebook page.
Nordic Walking & Complementary Therapies
The two actually fit well together. Nordic Walking provides physical and mental health benefits and the complementary therapies helps with the emotional benefits as well as the obvious muscular aches and pains. Combining the two will give you a complete package. Ask about the discount schemes for block bookings too. All treatments are mobile and cover the Lincoln and Lincolnshire surrounding areas.
If you would like to know more about the Mandarin Therapies treatments look at the blog below:
Click the picture above to see the latest Mandarin Therapies blog
Nordic Walking And More…
If you would like to learn more about Mandarin Fitness, Mandarin Therapies and Mandarin Leisure have a look at the website below:
Click on the page image to go straight to the Mandarin Leisure website
By Request…
It was requested that I should add in a little background information to help readers understand a little more about Mandarin Fitness and Nordic Walking. The article below was written and published in local newspapers in 2014 but after all this time, it’s still relevant and very real. Have a read:
Addiction doesn’t go away but it can be managed. As a result, the decision to quit running and swap to Nordic Walking was a game changer.
Nordic Walking is a sport for all so you can use it to get fit and stay fit. Fresh air and friendship are key elements to both mental and physical fitness. Rest assured that after 32 years of Personal Training you’ll be in good hands with Mandarin Fitness. ‘Master instructors’ are few and far between but with the wealth of knowledge and experience gained over more than 32 years as a fitness leader Martin is pretty unique!
Low impact, high energy, great fun and fabulous friendships. Whatever your ability or level of fitness, Martin will tailor your sessions to you. Call 07966 174878 to book your sessions or ask about special individual or group sessions.
Gift Vouchers
Mandarin Leisure gift vouchers and eVouchers are available for you to purchase. Email martin@mandarinleisure.com for more information.
Guest Blog
Nordic Walking by ‘Let’s Move Lincolnshire’
Join the Lincoln Nordic Walking family. Book today.
“Putting the social back into social media” #LincsConnect is always here for you.
Mandarin Leisure Valentines Anniversary – Still Going Strong
Celebrating 34th anniversary on Valentines Day
Mandarin Leisure Valentines Anniversary – Still Going Strong…
Mandarin Leisure Valentines Anniversary – It hardly seems possible that Mandarin Leisurehas been going for so long! The 34th anniversary is on 14 February and it’s hard to believe how quickly the time has flown! I started working part-time in the World Gym while studying to become Lincolnshires’ first Personal Trainer. Later I added complementary therapies to my portfolio and the rest is history. Studying never stops of course as there is always something new to learn.
Initially teaching circuit training classes in village halls the business has grown to include Personal Training, injury prevention, injury rehabilitation, back pain rehabilitation as well as the almost limitless possibilities with the complementary therapies. A few celebrity clients at the very start saw the business skyrocket from zero to a very healthy going concern.
Injury prevention and rehabilitation is a key element of the Mandarin Leisure success
It’s fair to say that helping people is in my genes. My father was awarded the BEM for helping people and my great grandfather was awarded the George Cross for bravery while helping people. My journey started out by helping people with their fitness and wellbeing but I soon discovered that with my healing abilities and vision I was able to help more people than I had ever imagined.
Mandarin Leisure – Introduces massage, aromatherapy, antenatal and postnatal bespoke mobil treatments.
Therapies
Mandarin Fitness (formerly QRS Fitness) added Mandarin Therapies and Mandarin Mothers to the list of businesses in a natural progression. Making people feel well is what I do best! The decision was made very early on to keep the business mobile so that the fitness, rehabilitation and therapies could be taken to the clients. It’s a business model that I’m pleased to say has served me well.
eVouchers
With postal charges increasing it has become more popular (and convenient) to order eVouchers and have them delivered straight to the intended recipient. It’s a fabulous gift and a lovely way to let people know how much you care about them and appreciate them. You can order your eVoucher now and have a special message included too.
*** From now until 14 February 2025 celebratory massage eVouchers are just £34.00 ***
If you fancy keeping fit and would like to try Nordic Walking why not join one of the weekly classes? Beginners are always welcome to join us and all abilities are catered for. Call 07966 174878 for more information
Mandarin Leisure Valentines Anniversary – A natural progression
First started in January 2011, the decision to officially launch a dedicated platform in November 2012 took the ‘helping people’ a stage further with the official launch of @LincsConnecton Twitter.
In order to prove its worth I created it anonymously to let people know the it is truly impartial. I helped and promoted all businesses in the Lincolnshire area including other Personal Trainers and therapists who may otherwise have viewed me as a rival business. My fear was that if they had known who was behind the account they might have viewed it differently.
A few years later I started a #LincsConnect networking group so naturally I couldn’t remain anonymous! The meetings went well and I have to say a huge THANK YOU to Emma at thePetwood Hotel in Woodhall Spa for having the faith in me and for supporting Lincs Connect in such a big way.
Due to personal illness I put the meetings on hold but intend to revive them again in the not too distant future.
Covid19
The Next Chapter
Covid19 needs no introductions! My exercise classes were obviously put on hold and my Personal Training sessions moved to online sessions. Having contracted the virus the day before lockdown I needed to find something to keep me occupied during the long hours of isolation.
The pandemic forced me into overcoming my fear of blogging. Having previously written articles and weekly editorials for local papers and glossy magazines, coupled with my love of writing, ‘blogging’ was born. I used my skills to help others throughout the pandemic by sign posting people to local activities, charities and businesses. The new venture went well and I’m pleased to say that my community blogging skills are improving and continuing to help people.
Physical networking was already on hold but I did attempt to create an online network with some success. My heart lies in ‘people’ though so the physical networking sessions are still my priority. My exercise sessions are no longer an option as I suffer with long-covid and breathing is still sometimes difficult. However, I have managed to continue with my Nordic Walking sessions with the support of my fantastic, loyal clients.
What’s Next?
The next chapter has already begun as LincsConnect continues to grow and thrive. Community blogging is here to stay and the physical networking sessions are planned to return in the near future. Online Personal Training continues as do the mobile therapies, injury rehabilitation sessions and Nordic Walking classes.
Happy Valentines Day to you all. You’re never alone as long as Mandarin Leisure and LincsConnect are here.
Additional Blogs By LincsConnect:
Valentines in Lincolnshire
Mandarin Therapies
Mobile complementary therapies covering Lincolnshire and beyond
J&S Plumbing & Heating
J&S Plumbing & Heating – Quality as standard
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