Lizzy Yarnold, a double Olympic gold medallist, is calling on the British public to stop what she describes as 'hibernating' and to engage more with outdoor activities during the winter months. This plea comes on the back of a concerning new survey commissioned by Corona Cero, which indicates that a significant number of adults in the UK miss out on outdoor adventures such as wild swimming, winter camping, ice skating, skiing, and snowboarding. The survey involved 2,000 participants and revealed that 79% have never tried some of these winter activities. Furthermore, the data suggests that a third of adults hardly venture outdoors during winter, effectively leading a hibernated lifestyle.

To combat this trend, Yarnold has enlisted the help of fellow Olympic athletes including Matt Weston, Billy Major, and Katie Ormerod in a film titled 'Dear Nature', which aims to inspire people to appreciate the outdoors and participate in various winter activities. The film and the accompanying campaign are part of an effort to change perceptions about winter living and showcase the joys of connecting with nature, especially during a season where many tend to isolate themselves indoors. By stepping outside, Yarnold and her team hope to promote not just physical activity, but also mental wellbeing, which can be significantly enhanced by spending time outdoors.

The call to action highlights a wider cultural issue regarding outdoor engagement in the UK and the missed opportunities for adventure and exploration during the winter season. As more individuals are encouraged to experience nature, it could lead to a shift in attitudes towards outdoor activities, fostering a healthier lifestyle and encouraging community engagement. Yarnold's initiative underscores the role that sports figures can play in motivating the public to explore and enjoy their environment, transforming the winter months into a time of activity rather than inactivity.