The popularity of adventure sports holidays among UK tourists demonstrate an invigorated interest in the health benefits of travel, it has been suggested.
According to Derek Moore, chairman of the Association of Independent Tour Operators, people are beginning to see holidays as a way to take a break from a sedentary lifestyle and make positive improvements to their health while abroad.
"People are much more aware of health issues and the fact that our sedentary daily lives leave us open to potential heart attack and stroke problems in later life," Mr Moore explained.
He added that activities offered range from relaxed cycling tours in France to conquering mountains, as well as specific overseas sports tournaments.
According to the recently-published Office for National Statistics Social Trends 2008 survey, more people are taking part in sports activities, with nearly 70 per cent of respondents over the age of 16 said to have pursued at least one sport during the 12 months leading up to the study.
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