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AbselingA Weekend is all it takes

Want to learn a new sport? A weekend is all it takes to get you started. John Bensalhia suggests five short courses in the UK

 

Face to face with climbing

Is your only experience of climbing on an indoor wall? Or have you always fancied having a go but never got around to it? A beginner’s course in rock climbing in Wales is the ideal first step in getting out into the real world. With TYF Adventure you learn with SPA-trained guides on the stunning sea cliffs of north Pembrokeshire. There are two different locations: one at Freshwater East, the other in St David’s. The two-day beginner’s course covers securing your own safety kit, gets you used to using ropes and teaches you how to abseil safely. You will also learn how to choose the right grade of climb for your skill level and you get to experience a number of different climbs. www.tyf.com

Surfing UK

A one-day introductory course with Extreme Element is the easy way to get surfing. The courses take place at three locations: Barnstaple, Devon; Newquay, Cornwall and Tenby, Pembrokeshire. After a brief introduction to the surf board, you will practise the moves on the beach (including paddling, standing up, stance and timing) before hitting the waves, where you will have the opportunity to put your theory into practice. Sink or swim, it will still be a memorable experience. www.exelement.co.uk

Sail of the century

If you’re desperate to be all at sea, but without the hassle of handling a large yacht, then why not try a spot of dinghy sailing? Brighton-based Lagoon Watersports offers a comprehensive range of courses with its fleet of laser dinghies run from the Brighton Marina Centre. Its Dinghy RYA Level 1 weekends will give you a real taste of sailing with all the basics and safety covered. www.lagoonwatersports.co.uk

The kite stuff

Fancy joining the daredevils kite surfing? In Poole, Dorset, a beginner’s course with FC Watersports will get you up and away. Poole Harbour is an ideal place to learn: it is the world’s second-largest natural harbour, and shallow. With a two-day course you will learn the basic techniques and all the necessary safety information. But best of all you get plenty of time in the water. www.fcwatersports.co.uk

On the bike trail

The leading provider of mountain bike courses in Scotland, Macs Adventure, offers you a great choice of beginner’s lessons, which can take place over one or two days, depending on your preference. The courses take place at Glentress, south of Edinburgh, where you will learn all the skills required for riding moderate mountain bike trails confidently, efficiently and safely. All the techniques of mountain biking are covered, not to mention the all-important safety aspects. www.macsadventure.com

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