10 of the best organised swims in Britain’s lochs, lakes and rivers for 2021

These summer and autumn swim events – for all abilities – are in eye-catching locations that make taking the plunge well worth it

The Secret to Superhuman Strength by Alison Bechdel review – no pain, all gain

The author of Fun Home reflects on self-improvement, death and her lifelong obsession with exercise in an extraordinarily generous memoir

10 great British walking trails where you won’t see another soul

Snowdon and Scafell will be busy this year, but our pick of lesser-known routes should be as empty as ever

‘The most expensive aren’t necessarily the best’: how to buy running shoes online

Even shopping from home, you don’t have to settle for footwear that’s too big, too small, too cushioned or not cushioned enough

Fit in my 40s: am I fat-shaming my dog if we work out together?

In a wall-sit, you should ideally hold your dog in your arms. I have to file that under ‘might work on a cockapoo’

Beware sugar highs: seven healthy ways to get more energy – from stretching to sourdough

It’s tempting to use coffee and sweet treats as pick-me-ups, but they are only temporary solutions. Here’s how to keep yourself going for longer

‘I was connected again to those I love’: writers on meeting up with friends at last

Whether it’s running, walking, swimming or picnicking, all are more fun with friends. Writers share their experience of the return of the rule of six in England

The proffee principle: is it really a good idea to add protein to your morning coffee?

Caffeine is a stimulant, protein helps muscle recovery, and thousands of people are posting online about combining the two for a sludgy beige take on breakfast

Secular pilgrims: why ancient trails still pack a spiritual punch

Where kings and abbots walked, tourists now follow. Are these increasingly popular trips just another holiday or are we getting more religious?

Fit in my 40s: I tried a TikTok workout with my daughter. She hated every minute

Fair play, it was hard for my daughter to concentrate while delivering a running commentary on all I was doing wrong

From keep fit to sex: how Guardian readers have boosted their mood during the pandemic

Everyone needs a release from the stresses of lockdown life. Readers share the ideas that work for them

Runners in England plan 330-mile relay to mark launch of parkrun book

Eileen Jones, author of how parkrun changed our lives, will begin ‘bookrun’ in Lake District on Friday

Is that a unicorn? No, it’s a teenager taking a hike in the great outdoors…

The Ramblers charity, long known for its older demographic, is now recruiting the Insta-generation

New heights: the minority ethnic hiking clubs opening up rural Britain

From sourcing kit to building confidence, several initiatives are tackling ‘no-go zone’ of British countryside