Go fly a power kite

Walk across many of London's parks and green spaces and you will come face-to-face with what a lot of fitness fans believe is the most exhilarating new exercise fad around - power kiting.

It gives you a really good all-over workout, because it forces you to run, leap and jump like mad. It's very good for the upper body, and holding onto those lines really tones the arms.

On a windy evening, scores of people can be spotted with kites on London's large open spaces, such as Hampstead Heath, Hackney Marshes, Blackheath, Richmond Park and Hyde Park.

Years ago the designs were very basic, but new, improved technology means that we are now seeing lighter, stronger, faster and more sophisticated kites and equipment. The lines, which are transparent and almost invisible, are thinner and more durable than before, and the kites are made of ultra-strong, lightweight materials.

If you've never flown a kite, before you rush out to buy one, get someone to show you the ropes, or even better have a couple of lessons. John Stevens, at Snow and Rock says: "Kites vary in size (anything up to nine metres) and obviously you need one to suit your height and weight. If it's too big, you will find it difficult to control. There are also a few basic techniques you will need to learn - such as launching the kite, and how to control it when it's in the air.

"You will also need to learn how to manoeuvre the kite lines to keep it flying through the "wind window" - the most powerful part of the wind. Otherwise, you may lose control, and the kite may crash."

Prices vary widely, starting from around £70-£100 for a good quality two-line line kite.

Snow and Rock mail order: 0845 100 1000; The Kite Society of Great Britain: www.thekitesociety.org.uk