This was the first time I'd Nordic Walked in snow and the poles were a boon. I went off at a steady lick with the poles propelling me forwards and, as always when I do this activity, my posture was superb. It has to be – it's impossible to stoop and Nordic Walk. Several hundred yards into my walk a hill loomed. Iced in layers of soft snow it looked beautiful..and decidedly slippery. However by planting my poles slightly farther forward and leaning a little towards the slope the ascent proved to be effortless. And as for descending the other side – a complete doddle with the poles as my extra 'legs'. As always when I'm in the great outdoors I began to think. What is there not to like about this? Granted the snow is an understandable deterrent but what about the spring and summer months? Why is it so hard to get people outdoors? I'm absolutely positive that most people who claim to loathe exercise have never tried this.

It's now 4pm and I still feel invigorated. And because my mood was boosted earlier in the day my productivity has soared this afternoon. I've completed tasks at twice the speed and somehow my normal tendency to procrastinate has evaporated. And of course the more I get done, the more I feel inspired to tackle. Forward thinking companies take note; engage your staff in an hour's exercise before their day's work and it won't be an hour lost but a racing start to the day. Try it for a month and check productivity levels. So what's new about this you say? You've been hearing for years about the benefits of employee fitness initiatives. Maybe. But can you honestly say you've really done anything about it? And I don't mean reduced gym memberships and medical check ups for your staff. An hour of power each morning; power walking, Nordic walking, just...walking...and sharing, socialising and spirit boosting.

Something else got me thinking...Is it cheating to make a resolution that, although it is very good for your health, you just know you're gonna love? There's a high chance of you keeping it up but is it in the spirit of a New Year's resolution? Aren't they supposed to be be based around something you'd rather avoid doing? Maybe. But I'm making it anyway...

So that's me - Snow Nordic walking at every opportunity this winter. It's great for your taste buds too – a hot chocolate has never tasted so good.