If you've always wanted to sign up for that heritage walk or a get-close-to-nature-camp but have been dissuaded by the usual heat and humidity, this year's extended winter is really something you ought to take advantage of. Anjana Vaswani draws up a list of things to do before the mercury rises

Model and Personal Trainer Rayomand Irani lives within a stone's throw of Dadar's famous Five Gardens. "It's such a pretty space," he shares. Irani, who spends most of the year training his clients at the city's gyms, recommends using the pleasant weather to one's advantage. "I do take clients out for jogs these days," he admits, explaining, "This is the best time for outdoor training because the weather really supports you. You don't get dehydrated and it's really great fun to be outside in the cold."u00a0



Outdoor training poses a problem in the summer as people can't push themselves as much then. "In this season, you can go for morning walks, cycle or enjoy a nice jog or even try a combination of outdoor exercises, depending on your stamina." But he also highlights, "Concrete can be very hard on your knees, ankles and lower back, so jogging at Marine Drive routinely can be problematic." Irani therefore recommends a change of scenery. "Some days opt for a grass course, you could run uphill on other days or you can even jog on the beach for a change."

Call Rayomand Irani on 9820037470

Chill on the weekend
PR and marketing professional Nisha Khiani who moved to Mumbai from London some years ago, was thrilled to be able to take her kids, Tanvi and Saisha, camping in the winter. "It was a pampered experience," she laughs, telling us about the serenity of camping by a lake during a Khopoli trip she signed up for with Big Red Tent. Mansi Mhatre, coordinator, letscampout.com tells us that their company organises camps every weekend. For adults, the trip costs Rs 2,500 for a weekend (half price for kids up to 12 years of age), inclusive of food. Aside from adventure activities there's marshmallow roasting around a nightly bonfire and barbecues to enjoy.