The thought of a monster Christmas feast of turkey, roast potatoes and all the trimmings might be creeping into your mind with the festive season truly upon us.
However, for some the last week of December is not about gorging on mountains of food and enjoying one too many ‘refreshments’.
There is still sport to enjoy, and whether you prefer your activities in the water, on two wheels or using your legs alone, there is something for everyone.
Taking to the field in the Premier League football on Boxing Day is probably beyond most of us, but there are a number of events that we can all get involved in. That being said, if you’ve not started preparing for them now, it might be worth planning for next year!
Peter Pan Cup –Swimming event – London – December 25th
Diving into the Serpentine in Hyde Park is only for those not particularly adverse to the cold. The waters in the capital park rarely get above four degrees celcius in December, so prepare for a chilly one.
The 100 yard race for the prize originally donated by Peter Pan author J.M Barrie 112 years ago is only open to members of the Serpentine Swimming Club that have qualified over the year. So for that reason, if you fancy braving the cold waters next year you will need to sign up.
Fields of Athenry 10km – Athenry, Ireland – December 26th
What better way to burn off some of the Christmas calories than a leisurely 10k? Across the Irish Sea, the 15th running of this road race will attract over 1,000 runners on Boxing Day.
One of the leading races of its kind in Ireland, if you fancy heading across to the Emerald Isle in the coming years for a post-Christmas contest, this could be the one.
What’s more, every entrant will get a free bobble hat to keep their heads warm during the festive fun run. This year’s freebie is a very dashing purple offering…
Groggy Doggy 2016 – Running race – Bungay, Suffolk – December 26th
Struggling to get other human members of the family to join you on your festive exerts? Then Groggy Doggy might be for you.
This 2.1 miles (or 4.2 miles if you’re looking for more or a test for both parties) will certainly give you and your pooch an opportunity to burn off some calories on Boxing Day.
Prizes for best fancy dress and the muddiest winner as well as pet food collections for charities means this event is more than your standard dog walk.
Pontyclun Flyers Festive 40 – Cycle sportif – Pontyclun – December 27th
A scenic 40 mile ride around the Vale of Glamorgan might be more up some people’s street. Enjoy a leisurely pedal around scenic south Wales whilst raising money for charity.
There’s also some treats along the way too. Mince pies and mulled wine ensure those taking part are treated to more Christmas delights as well as a work-out.
Last year’s maiden running of the event sold out, as has this year’s renewal so the popularity looks to be on the up for this casual charity event.
Winter Cross Ultra – Ultra marathon – Meonstoke – December 28th
There’s nothing casual about the Winter Cross Ultra. This grueling 45 mile test across the South Downs will show up anyone that has had one too many pigs in blankets from December 25th onwards.
Split into three legs, those who complete the race will be worthy of their Winter Cross Ultra medal they receive.
Challenging terrain with slippery descents and the odd cow in the way mean that this is no easy post-Christmas jog, but an event for serious runners. Skip the second portion of Christmas pudding if you want to increase your chances of getting round.
WinterCross event t-shirt and 50k medal. Don’t forget to order yours #wintercross @irunoffroad @CampingHF @AltonSportsShop @UKRunCat pic.twitter.com/Hf4ccjEink
— secondwind running (@SecondwindR) December 10, 2016
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