The Highpoint newsletter for May is packed with events and special offers, details of upcoming courses and their weekly activity programme

Courses coming up in the next few months include:

SCRAMBLING – THE CUILLIN OF SKYE: May 29th-June 2: June 26-30 – Flexible – join in as many or as few days as you like at £70 per day
Enjoy the finest scrambling in Britain and learn some useful skills, also a chance to climb the famous Inaccessible Pinnacle.

SCRAMBLING – LAKE DISTRICT: June 18/19; July 16/17; August 13/14; £150
A weekend course designed to provide skills training appropriate to classic scrambles – learn the skills and enjoy some classic routes such as Pinnacle Ridge.

BEGINNERS ROCK CLIMBING LAKE DISTRICT: May 28/29; June 11/12; June 25/26; July 9/10; July 23/24; August 6/7 and 20/21; £160
These courses will give you a great taster for what climbing is all about – learn all the basics and enjoy some wonderful climbs in the company of one of our expert instructors and amongst the fantastic Lake District scenery

BEGINNERS ROCK CLIMBING PEAK DISTRICT: June 25/26; July 16/17; August 13/14; £160
More beginner’s courses, but based in the Peak District and centred round the gritstone areas of The Roaches.

NAVIGATION SKILLS: First and third weekend in every month: £130
A really worthwhile Lake District weekend course suitable for hillwalkers wanting to learn or hone thier existing skills – all levels welcome from beginners upwards.

VIA FERRATA DOLOMITES: 16-23 July; 23-30 July; 30 July – 6 August and 10-17 September; Other dates may be available for groups of 3 or more. £925
A residential week taking in classic Via Ferrata in the Sella region. No previous experience required and all specialist gear provided. The scenery and the climbs are stunning.

SPECIAL OFFERS:

ROCK CLIMBING COURSES JUNE 11/12 AND JULY 9/10 – SPECIAL OFFER PRICE JUST £99 FOR THE WEEKEND

NAVIGATION SKILLS COURSE JUNE 4/5 AND JULY 2/3 – SPECIAL OFFER PRICE JUST £89 FOR THE WEEKEND

VIA FERRATA DOLOMITES – WEEK 23-30 JULY REDUCED TO £795

EQUIPMENT BARGAINS:

CLIMBING HARNESSES:  CAMP QUARTZ SIZE M & L – £35
TENDON ADVENTURE XL – £33

SNOW SHOVELS: CAMP SNOW SHOVELS – Extendable handle, adjustable, and polycarbonate blade – almost half price at £35

STARLIGHT CLIMBING HELMETS: 1x BLUE 1 x WHITE £42

VIA FERRATA KITS – CAMP REWIND – COMPRISES: Harness, retractable leashes, shock absorber and carabiners – £80

VARIOUS ROCK BOOTS – SIZES 5.5, 6.5, 7 AND 8 @ £35 PER PAIR

KAYLAND ACTION MOUNTAIN BOOTS – SUITABLE FOR SUMMER ALPINE USE AND GENERAL MOUNTAINEERING (STRAPON CRAMPON ONLY) £HALF PRICE AT £80 – SIZE 12 ONLY FEATURE NUBUCK LEATHER AND EVENT, VIBRAM SOLE

KAYLAND REVO NUBUCK LEATHER/EVENT WALKING BOOT, VIBRAM SOLE – SIZE 8 – REALLY NICE BOOT, HALF PRICE AT £70

CONTACT JOHN WHITE BY EMAIL OR ON 07970 138591 FOR DETAILS

ROGUERUNNER:
John White has recently been helping film director Dan Hartley and his crew in the filming of ‘LAD’ down in the Yorkshire Dales. As well as providing location advice, safety and 4WD, John was also responsible for shooting a drinks can with an air rifle for a close up shot of the inevitable explosion. Did he hit?? – first time of course – well most people would from 5 feet……details from the Roguerunner website at www.roguerunner.com

BLUEBELLS:
In recent years TV programmes have delighted in telling us how springtime is earlier every year, but have neglected to mention how variable the onset of spring is according to the severity of the preceding winter. Each year I take a group of kids from an Essex school for a walk in the Patterdale area on about the same date in mid-May. One part of the walk takes in a magnificent display of bluebells. Three years ago, the bluebells were at their peak and turned the hillsides blue. Last year, on exactly the same date, there was hardly a bluebell to be seen, after a long and cold winter and spring. This year, it’s somewhere in between. Regardless of the impact of global warming, these annual variations are clearly very significant.

FIRES:
Two weeks ago I was in NW Scotland enjoying some fantastic spring sunshine, climbing at Reiff and walking Quinag. Visible from the summit of Quinag was an enormous fire sweeping the hills close to nearby Suilven – the smoke was drifting out to sea for many miles. Lakes climber Dave Birkett was walking to Suilven at the time and reported it is being a huge fire which verged more on frightening rather than impressive. Nearby at Inverkirkiag, where the famous cafe and bookshop stand, firefighters had to spend many hours making sure the fires did not take the premises, and there is now more than 30,000 acres of blackened hiilsides – see photos at this link:
http://www.scottishhills.com/html/modules.php?name=Forums&file=viewtopic&p=162809

WEEKLY ACTIVITY PROGRAMME:
Highpoint are now running a weekly activity programme in the Lakes, with Rock Climbing, Abseiling, Tunnel Walk, Gorge Scrambling, Longbow Archery and Mountain Biking available for half days during the week – a great idea for just having a go at a new activity, or for families and small groups. Mountain Bikes can also be hired from £15 from our base at Elterwater. (Tel 015394 37691)

Apologies if you get this twice – and please let me know if you do not wish to receive our newsletters and updates.

For more information visit their website at www.mountainguides.co.uk or caontact John White on 07970 138591

A former journalist has published a new guide for mountain bikers in the Lake District.

Ian Boydon, 33, from Lancaster has spent the last two years researching and writing the first in a new series of guide books for outdoors publishers Cicerone.

Mountain Biking in the Lake District

The former Westmorland Gazette journalist who has been riding in the area for almost 20 years, said he decided to write his ‘Mountain Biking in the Lake District’ guide book after noticing that many of his favourite rides were not featured in any existing guide book.

Ian Boydon said about his book: “I had great fun researching and writing this guide and I hope that readers will get just as much enjoyment out of riding this spectacular area’s wonderful trails as I have done.”

Mountain bike guide book

The guide book contains 24 routes of varying length and is graded in difficulty and is therefore suitable to be used by riders of all abilities from near beginners to expert bikers.

Routes visit all corners of the Lakes and places such as Kendal, Kentmere, Grizedale Forest, Muncaster and Threlkeld.

“There is nothing quite like a big day in the saddle riding on this area’s amazing bridleways and taking in the jaw-dropping views of the lakes and the fells. It is something that you just don’t get tired of and can be enjoyed whatever the weather,” said Ian.

Mountain Biking in the Lake District has been published by Milnthorpe based, Cicerone.

The company has been publishing books on outdoors activities such as fell walking, mountaineering and rock climbing for more than 40 years.

Although Cicerone has published cycling touring guides in the past,  The Lake District guide book is the first in an exciting new series of mountain biking guides for the company.

Mountain Biking in the Lake District will be followed by a Cicerone guide to biking in the South Downs, which is due out in May, and Ian Boydon is currently writing a mountain biking guide for the Yorkshire Dales, which should be ready for spring next year.

More information about Mountain Biking in the Lake District is available  in many good book stores or online via Amazon

The Sportsphysio.com recommend the use of simple slip over grips to help you walk safely in the ice and snow.

Petzl Spiky Plus snow/ice grips

Hospital emergency departments are being inundated with casualties, injured by slipping on the pavements and roads.

Carlisle City recorded a minimum temperature last night of -15 degrees and the weather does not look like improving any time soon.

Steady snow fall over the last two weeks and freezing temperatures below -7 degrees Celsius means that grit on roads and pavements will be ineffective.

We have found these simple, slip on overshoes which enable the wearer to walk on snow and even black ice in relative safety.  The Sportsphysio.com trialled a pair of the Petzl Spiky Plus last year and were amazed by their simplicity of use and effectiveness.  We particularly liked this brand because they are just as effective in snow as they are on ice.

Other snow/ice overshoes

• Non-slip Snow/ice Grabbers
• EzyShoe Anti Skid Overshoes
• STABILicers Overshoe

A slightly less effective alternative but useful in extreme cases, is to put socks (natural fibre) over your shoes.

Safe footwear

Shoes or boots designed for walking, such as those found in mountain equipment shops, have deep treads and specially developed soles.  These will offer some degree of grip in snow.
Walking boots rather than shoes will give support to the ankle joint, limiting damage from sprains and strains.

Fashion shoes are not designed for use on snow and ice and appart from the fact that they give no grip, their thin soles and uppers offer no warmth.  When the muscles of the foot are cold, the flexibility and mobility of the foot will diminish, making us more likely to slip.

Warm , thick socks made from thermal and natural fibres will help to maintain warmth in the foot, two thinner pairs worn together will trap air between them helping to keep feet warmer.

Use walking poles

The sort we see all the holiday makers with in the lake district, have a tungsten grip at the end of the pole.  They are relatively easy to carry about and may give you a little more stability in slippy areas.  They allow us to have four limbs on the ground instead of two.

Warm clothing

Lots of layers are key to keeping warm; a good thick coat, hat and gloves will keep out the worst of the cold.

If you are out in the dark, some sort of reflective clothing will be useful.  DO NOT walk in the road and always be aware that drivers may not be able to see you and are less likely to be able to stop quickly.

Don’t be caught out

If you rely on public transport or even your car, be aware that both can let you down at this time of year.  Always make sure you have warm clothing, good walking shoes or boots and the relevant equipment with you on your journey.

Motorists can find out more information on the AA website.

Charge up your mobile phone and let people know where you are going and when you expect to return.

Leave plenty of time and only go out if you need to.  Stay warm and safe!

LAKE DISTRICT ROCK CLIMBING WEEKEND – SPECIAL OFFER

Special offer – a climbing weekend for beginners and improvers in the Lake District for just £100 – that’s £60 less than the standard rate. DATES: October 16/17 and November 13/14.  Content is flexible to match ability and experience.

NAVIGATION SKILLS

Sharpen up your outdoor navigation skills before the winter sets in on a Navigation Skills weekend: October 16/17 and November 6/7
- Learn how to pace and time distances
- Taking bearings and when to do it
- Understanding contours
- GPS – what can it do for you?
- Finding your way in bad visibility
- Build your confidence

WINTER SKILLS COURSES BOOKING NOW

The Sportsphysio.com has over ten years experience working with sports groups and athletes from amateur to Olympic level providing specific event support.

Our unique location at the edge of the Cumbrian Lake District and only an hour away from the Scottish Highlands, means that we do a great deal of work with climbers and activity organisations in the region. Currently providing event services for Highpoint and the Olympic Delivery Authority.

Understanding a particular sport and mechanism of injury, is vital to the wellbeing of the athlete and we spend a great deal of time with professionals in many disciplines, learning the skills required and understanding the stresses and strains placed on the body.

Special experience with ballistics and archery professionals has allowed us to assist Olympic athletes to fine tune their technique to get the best from their physique and skills.

Preventative techniques are always at the forefront of our sports work and this is most evident with our involvement in motor sport, working with the driver to counteract the forces of driving at speed or in awkward conditions. We were present at symposiums for the inception of the HANS restraint system, now employed to limit head and neck injuries in F1 drivers.

We will always work closely with an injured athlete and their coach, ensuring that they can maintain their level of fitness and achieve rehabilitation within the sports specific environment.

If you would like us to provide support for your event, just use our “contact us” button to discuss your requirements.

Find out more about the Cumbrian Lakes and Scottish Highlands

Find out more about The Cumbrian Lake District, with the Lake District National Park

Visit the Scottish Highlands

Highpoint Mountain Guides – offer a range of activities and training for groups www.lakeschallenge.co.uk and specialist services to the media, film and TV industries www.highpointpro.co.uk

We have over ten years experience working with sports groups and athletes from amateur to Olympic level providing specific event support.

Striding Edge

Our unique location at the edge of the Cumbrian Lake District and only an hour away from the Scottish Highlands, means that we do a great deal of work with climbers and activity organisations in the region.

Currently providing event services for Highpoint and the Olympic Delivery Authority.

Understanding a particular sport and mechanism of injury, is vital to the wellbeing of the athlete and we spend a great deal of time with professionals in many diciplines, learning the skills required and understanding the stresses and strains placed on the body.

Special experience with ballistics and archery professionals has allowed us to assist Olympic athletes to fine tune their technique to get the best from their physique and skills.

Preventative techniques are always at the forefront of our sports work and this is most evident with our involvement in motorsport, working with the driver to counteract the forces of driving at speed or in awkward conditions.

We were present at symposiums for the inception of the HANS restraint system, now employed to limit head and neck injuries in F1 drivers.

We will always work closely with an injured athlete and their coach, ensuring that they can maintain their level of fitness and achieve rehabilitation within the sports specific environment.

If you would like us to provide support for your event, just use our “contact us” button to discuss your requirements.

Find out more about the Cumbrian Lakes and Scottish Highlands

Find out more about The Cumbrian Lake District, with the Lake District National Park

Visit the Scottish Highlands

Highpoint Mountain Guides – offer a range of activities and training for groups www.lakeschallenge.co.uk and specialist services to the media, film and TV industries www.highpointpro.co.uk

The Sportsphysio practice is situated in the peaceful village of Warwick Bridge just 3 miles outside Carlisle City Centre.

We are easy to find, just off the A69

Warwick Mill Business Village enjoys a superb rural location, away from the congested city and expensive parking,  yet is within easy reach of clients and services throughout Cumbria,  The North East and South West Scotland.

The surgery is housed in one of the original 18th Century “Mill Workers” cottages, providing a comfortable and friendly atmosphere with private treatment rooms.

Gateway to the Cumbrian Lakes

The historic city of Carlisle has a unique location, just one step away from the stunning Cumbrian Lake District. A haven for walkers and climbers alike, as well as those who enjoy watersports and high octane pursuits.

We work closely with many businesses and organisations in the area, often providing dedicated support for specific events.

Just off the M6

We are only 5 minutes from junction 43 of the M6, making us easy to access from Cumbria, Lancashire and Southern Scotland.
The A69 runs right through the village, leading directly to the East.  Newcastle is just over an hour away.

Clinic Directions

From Carlisle and M6 ( Jnct 43)

Head along the A69 towards Newcastle for just about 2.5 miles.

• You will go past the Stony Holme Golf Club on your right.
• You will go over the stone bridge between Warwick upon Eden and Warwick Bridge
• You will go past open playing fields on your right
• You will bare right (stay on A69) at a tight curve in the road at a junction to Little Corby

Around 500m on your right, as the road opens out, is a green sign to Warwick Mill. TURN RIGHT here. ( If you get to the BP garage you have gone too far)

Continue up the lane past the Warwick Bridge Post Office and Co-op and past the first car park sign to your right.

Follow the road to your right between two rows of mill cottages.

TheSportsphysio.com clinic is on your right, 5 doors along. The Car park is just a little further along past the clinic to your left. ie behind the left row of cottages.

From Newcastle direction towards Carlisle.

On arrival in Warwick Bridge travel past the BP garage.  Slow down after about 200m as you approach a set of bollards in the central road reservation.

Turn LEFT just after them. A piece of rubble covered ground, the remains of the George Pub, will be to your left.

Continue up the lane past the Warwick Bridge Post Office and Co-op and past the first car park sign to your right.

Follow the road to your right between two rows of mill cottages.

TheSportsphysio.com clinic is on your right, 5 doors along. The Car park is just a little further along past the clinic to your left. ie behind the left row of cottages.

Address and postcode

TheSportsphysio.com
5 High Buildings
Warwick Bridge
Carlisle
Cumbria
CA4 8RP

Google Map from above the clinic available here >>

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