A jog through a forest can cut the risk of suffering from mental health problems and is twice as good for you as working out in the gym, according to a survey. Researchers found that anything from a stroll in the park to a run through woodland can have a positive effect on people suffering from depression and anxiety. The study also showed that the positive effect on people’s mental health was 50 per cent more than they might expect from going to the gym.

The researchers at Glasgow University looked at natural and non-natural environments for physical activity, including walking, running and cycling, and found that being around trees and grass lowered brain stress levels. The study, led by Prof Richard Mitchell, polled nearly 2000 physically active people in the 2008 Scottish Health Survey. Only activities carried out in a natural environment outdoors were found to be associated with a lower risk of poor mental health.

Add guns and adrenaline pumping missions into the mix and its very clear that a day out doing battle in Combatzones 25 acres of challenging forestry with your mates has many benefits to your body and mind (unless of course you suffer reoccurring nightmares from the missions you took part in!!!) Groups of all types including stags, sportsteams, companies and groups of friends from all over Ireland travel to Combatzone to play paintball at what is now regarded as one of the best paintball venues in Europe. Book your day to remember now. Overnight Play and stay packages also available for just €44 per person.