Close enough for the weekend, far enough for an adventure!
Pack a picnic, plenty of freshwater, and a sturdy pair of shoes to make the most out of your trail time. Here are the 5 best trails to explore in
Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
Distance: 4.2km return
Time: 1-2 hours
Starting at the Minnamurra Rainforest Centre, enjoy spectacular rainforest, waterfall and canyon views from several viewing platforms along Minnamurra Falls walk. There is a beautiful picnic ground here where you can enjoy a long lunch in the great outdoors.
Distance: 2km (one way)
Time: 1hr (one way)
Catch the Illawarra train line 40 min south to Heathcote. The trailhead is right behind the train stop next to the fire station. A 35 min downhill hike will have you ready for a dip in what is arguably the best watering hole accessed by public transport!
Explore More Rec Pants + Walk The Talk 1/2 Zip
A quick 15-minute drive west from the city. Enjoy 1600 hectares of open eucalyptus forest, rainforest gullies and creek lines. A 6km hike that is both dog and kid-friendly.
With the mornings getting chillier it’s the ideal time to get moving and warm up your body, and what better way than with a mood-boosting run? Layer up, skip the treadmill and hit the ground feeling good with these scenic and energising runs.
The Tan
Undoubtedly Melbourne’s most popular running track, this 3.8km run loops around the picturesque Royal Botanic Gardens. Start at the top of the hill on Anderson Street and make your way around to Kings Domain, Government House Reserve and the Shrine of Remembrance Reserve.
Albert Park Lake
Start or end your day with a 4.8km lap around Albert Park Lake, home of the Australian Grand Prix. Want to go the extra mile? Extend your run to Catani Gardens and the St Kilda foreshore to finish up at the beach.
Princes Park
If you’re a beginner looking for a simple, flat running track, a 3.2km lap of Princes Park is just the ticket. Favoured by athletes and sports teams, it’s conveniently located near Carlton’s cafe strip so you can motivate yourself with the promise of a post-run latte.
Abbotsford Convent & Yarra Bend Park
Build up to this longer 10km run that takes you from the historic Abbotsford Convent and around the banks of the Yarra River where you’ll get magical views of Melbourne’s city skyline at sunset.
Solar System Trail
Take in solar system sculptures and beautiful sea views of Port Phillip Bay on this 5.9km run from the Sun (Marina Reserve) to Pluto (Port Melbourne).
Bondi to Bronte
A stunning 2.5km clifftop run that takes in not one but three iconic beach locations — Bondi, Tamamara and Bronte. If you’re lucky you may even spot some whales or dolphins!
Bondi to Coogee
This 6.1km cliff-to-coast run isn’t technically flat the whole way but you’ll barely notice as you take in the breathtaking sea views.
Centennial Park
This leafy 3.7km track set around one of Sydney’s oldest and largest parks is ideal for a quick jog.
The Domain
Take in the sights of Sydney on this easy 3km run adjoining Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden, with views of the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge and Woolloomooloo.
Hyde Park
Surrounded by leafy trees and meticulous gardens, enjoy the serenity within Sydney’s CBD, as you run the 2.4km perimeter of this heritage-listed urban park.
River Loop
This 6.4km run as it all — city glimpses, the Botanic Gardens, Southbank and clifftops. Start at Eagle Street Pier then run across the iconic Story Bridge and alongside the river to Cliffs Boardwalk before crossing back via the Goodwill Bridge.
Kangaroo Point
Want the best vantage point to see Brisbane’s city skyline? You can’t go past a standalone run along these heritage-listed cliffs. For an added challenge: Scale the infamous 107-steps at Kangaroo Point Stair Climb.
Newfarm Riverwalk
Located in downtown Brisbane this is a great running route for beginners. Start at the Eagle Street Pier ferry terminal and head along the City Beach Boardwalk until it becomes New Farm Riverwalk, then continue on your 4.1 km run to New Farm Park, one of the city’s oldest, grandest and largest parks.
Three Parks
Why do one park when you can run through three? Follow the 5km three-park river stretch that takes in Orleigh Park, Riverside Lands Park and Davies Park at West End for an energising job… There’s even outdoor gyms along the way if you need to stretch!
Roma Street Parkland
Set in the heart of the city, sprint your way around 16-hectares of parkland, and take in immaculate designer gardens, carefully manicured lawns and stunning blooms as you get your heart rate up. Two laps will give you a 3km run.
WE’LL BE WEARING
]]>We’re all for staying active, but sometimes you sleep through your 5am alarm and miss that pre-work Pilates class, or want to prioritise brunch with your bestie over boot camp — or there’s no reason at all. As it turns out these aren’t excuses, it’s your body telling you it needs a time-out!
Taking regular breaks between workouts to rest and reset is good for you. Rest days are a critical part of progress, regardless of your fitness level or sport. And skipping them can even lead to overtraining and adrenal fatigue.
Working out creates microscopic tears in your muscle tissue and during rest cells (known as fibroblasts) repair it, aiding tissue to heal and grow.
When you exercise, your body also has to break down carbohydrates to fuel your workout. Rest gives your body the chance to replenish these energy stores in preparation for your next workout.
Ever felt so tired or distracted you almost dropped a weight, or couldn’t keep up during a workout class? Feeling rested before you hit the gym is important so that you don’t get injured. When you overexert yourself, you’re also less likely to be focused, or get the most out of your workout.
Foregoing rest may actually stand in the way of progress and your fitness goals. Overtraining can reduce endurance - just ask any elite athlete.
Exercising helps you sleep, but overdoing it, or training at the wrong time of day (we’re looking at you 8pm workouts) can disrupt your sleep pattern. Getting physical increases cortisol and adrenaline — which can be beneficial — but if you continue to exert yourself that burst of energy can have the opposite effect, leading to an overproduction of these hormones, and a poor night’s sleep. Resting, however, can help balance your hormonal state and encourage you to sleep easier.
Resting doesn’t mean you have to forego all physical activities. Here are some low-key activities to keep your mind and body active — without overdoing it.
If you’re after a rest day workout, a short yoga session is the perfect off-duty activity to keep you moving while allowing your body time to recover. Yoga also naturally promotes calmness as the exercises encourage you to focus on your breathing and be at one with your body.
Head to your local beach or park and stretch out your yoga mat, muscles, and mind simultaneously. Even a quick 10-15 session will help aid muscle recovery.
Take a short hike or wander through a local national park or walking trail. A picturesque change of scenery could be just what you need to recharge, and being surrounded by nature is also great for raising those serotonin levels. Remember to pack plenty of snacks, water and a solid playlist to keep you motivated.
Is there anything better than diving into the ocean? Put on your favourite Sweat to Swim tank and shorts, take a walk along the coastline, then jump into the ocean. A splash of cold saltwater will energise you in an instant.
Put on your favourite tracks and let loose. Dancing is a great way to move your body while listening to music that naturally uplifts you.
We’re often running at a million miles an hour and we don’t take the time to breathe properly. Consciously tapping into your breath can help improve your mental, physical and spiritual wellbeing. Find a calm, quiet place to sit. Relax your shoulders and jaw, inhale through your nose slowly, and exhale through your mouth. If you need a guide try this one-minute breathing exercise or look up breathwork classes in your local area. You’ll be amazed how centred you feel in a short amount of time.
Feeling guilty about eyeing off the couch? Don’t. Resting and having some downtime is just as important as a sweat-inducing workout — it’s all about balance. Create a relaxing vibe by lighting a scented candle or some incense and putting on something cosy to set the tone.
How to do a rest day right
Get a solid eight hours of sleep the night before so you wake up well-rested
Expose yourself to morning sun to boost serotonin levels and your general mood
Have a healthy, protein-filled meal to support muscle repair and recovery or add some protein powder to your morning coffee
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your hydration levels high
Create a calm, relaxing Spotify playlist or sign-up to apps like Calm or Insight Timer to set the tone for the day
Prioritising rest days and your well-being is important for so many reasons. Say goodbye to the guilt, be kind to yourself, and lean into the chill factor. Permission to rest — granted!
]]>Lacing up your shoes and heading out into the forest can be daunting and so many women tell us that they don’t think they are good enough or ready to go trail. At Her Trails, we are determined to change that!! Here are a few tips to help you step out of your comfort zone and onto the dirt.
The unpredictable nature of the trail and our wild spaces brings new challenges. Feeling prepared will boost your confidence and help you enjoy the experience, even when things don’t go to plan! You’ll want to invest in trail-specific gear, in particular your shoes.
Hydration vests and proper nutrition will ensure that you’re fuelled and hydrated - we recommend always carrying an emergency food stash and warm layer just in case!
Getting started can be scary and overwhelming! Here are a few ways to keep safety front of mind:
At Her Trails, we have seen firsthand the power of finding your tribe!
The juggle is real and we know how hard it can be to prioritise your movement and time in nature, among all the other balls you’ve got in the air. Finding a tribe - whether that’s a running buddy, local training group or a global online community can help you to manage unsettling emotions and realise that you are not alone in this.
To train holistically means to consider something as a “whole” instead of focussing on (or ignoring!) one particular component.
This is a huge part of our method at Her Trails and includes strength and mobility training, nutrition, sleep, recovery, mindset and education. Whether you are new to hiking or trail running, these activities can place additional stress on your body and your schedule. Progress over perfection!
If you’re used to road running or walking, starting out on the trails will spice things up and possibly slow things down! With different surfaces, technical terrain, uphill, downhill, stairs, and potential navigation, watching your stats or comparing your road pace and times can be a shock. We LOVE this! An opportunity to let go of the numbers, focus on the path ahead, and soak up the outdoors' deep, juicy healing power!
At Her Trails, we are driven to share our love of the trails and our wild places. We know how healing and empowering it is for women to feel safe and confident when carving out time for themselves in the outdoors. Our next Her 21.1km Trail program kicks off next month – the perfect way to build your fitness and clock time in nature.
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We love moving out in nature and believe there’s nothing better than getting your heartbeat up while taking in breathtaking views. Be kind to mama earth when you enjoy the fruits of her labour.
Pack smart and prepare to take your rubbish with you.
Our bring it all bumbag if the perfect companion for a hike.
Minimise noise!
Remember you are sharing the environment with native animals. Enjoy the natural sounds around you.
Stay on the trail.
Yep, through the mud, not around it! When you go off trail not only do you trample even more of the natural environment, but contamination can occur.
SPF is your best friend...
make sure it's nature's too. Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate water systems.
TRAIL TIME IN HUNTER GREEN CASCADE + GOT YOUR BACK LONG SLEEVE
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with @yogawithjanet_
• A Mat
Well, this is the finish line and nothing quite finishes off a challenge like a good yoga flow! 20 minutes and you're done, friends.
10 down - none to go! 🙌
A special victory email is coming your way!!!
xoxo Team Nimble
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with @amberjeanrowan
• A Mat
We love Amber's vibes and we know you will too. Squash out that anxiety with this little breathing rep that will have you so chillax you might want to do it...all day long.
You've stuck with us so far... let's take it to the finish line.
9 complete, only 1 left!
Remember to check your inbox in the am for your last workout.
xoxo Team Nimble
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with @wholesomestef
• A Mat
Crunch, pulse, climb, run, burp (🤭), and rock the squat... Stef has you covered from head to toe in this HIIT routine that has every inch of your body moving. It's time to get your commando on.
8 down, 2 left! You're almost finished your workouts.
Remember to check your inbox in the am for your next workout.
xoxo Team Nimble
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• A Mat
We go high, we go low, let your abs move your legs where we want them to go! It's all about the reps ladies. Do it once...do it twice... then keep on going till your abs look nice!
7 gone, 3 to finish the workout.
Remember to check your inbox in the am for your next workout.
xoxo Team Nimble
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with @victoriabeck
• No shame and all your game!
Make the beat your bitch by mastering these moves. Hint hint, dance is all about the attitude - so bring it! Get those moves down and hit replay, it gets better 2nd...3rd...4th time around.
6 workouts down, only 4 more.
Remember to check your inbox in the am for your next workout.
xoxo Team Nimble
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with @mvmtsociety
• A chair (no you're not sitting down)
Movement doesn't have to be high intensity to make you sweat. Our sisters at MVMT have all the moves and they're going to teach you how to do them right! Listen for the prompts, your technique is everything.
5 down, 5 to go. Woot, woot! You are half way through our I SO NIMBLE challenge.
Remember to check your inbox in the am for your next workout.
xoxo Team Nimble
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with @sabey_wellness
• A mat
• Light weights (1-2kg)
• Booty band (your choice)
• Determination! ;p
Roll out that mat, because it's time to move your hips. This one is full of punches, bridges, pulses, chest flies and skull crushers! If this doesn't get your blood flowing, we don't know what will.
4 challenges down, 6 to crush!
Remember to check your inbox in the am for your next challenge.
xoxo Team Nimble
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with @pilateswithlottie
• 15 minutes
• A railing or table or stable chair
• A smile
Twinkle your toes with a smile in this 15min core workout - we'll get that blood flowing through your waist and booty as you squat, pulse, donkey kick, and repeat your way to a perfect peach.
3 workouts down, 7 to go!
Remember to check your inbox in the am for your next workout.
xoxo Team Nimble
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with @rhiannoncbailey
It's time to hit the dirt (or mat), soldier! Don't be fooled, this mini HIIT sesh is all about form with speed - so get on the beat till you feel your heart racing!
The question is how many reps can you do?
Don't quit now! 2 workouts down, 8 to go!
Remember to check your inbox in the am for your next workout.
xoxo Team Nimble
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with @Rochelledeluca
• 20 minutes
• A yoga mat
• Booty band (optional)
• Dumbell (2kg+)
We're kicking things off with a little booty burner. Once you've got your form down start with 10 extensions + 10 Ab abductions, then 9 extensions + 9 Ab Abductions, then 8+8, 7+7... you know the drill. Don't call it quits till you take it to 0!
Yep, you'll be walking funny tomorrow, but we're just getting started! Remember to check your inbox in the am for your next workout.
xoxo Team Nimble
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