Why Outdoor Adventure Matters More As We Get Older
Carl Burnett • 17 January 2026
There’s a powerful truth quietly rising across the outdoor world: adventure doesn’t have an age limit. In fact, the science now tells us that spending time outdoors as we get older isn’t just enjoyable, it is one of the most effective ways to protect our physical health, emotional wellbeing and long-term happiness. Here are the most compelling reasons why staying adventurous truly matters later in life.
1. A positive mindset helps us age better
How we think about aging shapes how we experience it. Studies increasingly show that people who view aging as a time of possibility live longer, remain healthier, and stay mentally stronger.
Adventure naturally fuels that mindset.
Try something new at 50, 60 or 80, and suddenly the old stereotypes lose their power. A body in motion, a challenge completed, or a coastline crossed creates confidence that spills into every corner of life.
Adventure reminds us that our story isn’t closing; new chapters are waiting.
2. Adventure changes how we see ourselves
When older women surf, kayak, climb cliffs, hike coast paths or paddleboard for the first time, something profound happens:
They rewrite the expectations placed upon them.
Taking part in outdoor activities doesn’t have to mean pushing limits. Even a gentle walk on the beach, a birdwatch along the estuary, or learning paddle skills on calm water sends a message:
“I am still growing. I am still capable. I am still allowed to play.”
That psychological shift is powerful. It strengthens identity, independence, and joy.
3. Nature itself is medicine
Science now confirms what most outdoor people already feel in their bones: time outside heals.
Green and blue spaces, reduce stress, boost immune function, improve sleep, restore emotional balance, and even sharpen memory.
Just 15–45 minutes outdoors can change the brain in measurable ways. And the wilder the space, the stronger the effect.
4. Awe keeps us young
The coastline at sunset.
Stars over a campsite.
Waves rolling in across Exmouth.
Moments of awe are not a luxury; they are biologically important. Research shows that awe resets the mind, lowers inflammation, releases stress, and increases creativity.
Adventure makes awe easier to find:
a high tide, a strong breeze, the sound of birds at dawn.
Those experiences lift the spirit and widen our sense of possibility.
5. We never stop learning
Modern neuroscience has overturned the old belief that learning becomes harder with age.
Our brains continue to form new cells and new pathways right into later life.
Learning to paddleboard at 70, kayak at 65, or swim at 68 doesn’t just teach a new skill. It lights up the brain, improves problem-solving, and strengthens confidence.
Every new paddle stroke, every map read, every campfire cooked over is fuel for a healthier mind.
Why this matters to us at Redrock
Outdoor adventure is more than fun. It is preventative healthcare, community building, emotional strengthening, and lifelong empowerment blended into one experience.
We see it every season:
older adults rediscovering their bodies, grandparents paddleboarding with grandchildren, parents trying activities they never believed possible, and women stepping into watersports for the first time and realising they belong there.
Adventure is not reserved for the young.
Adventure keeps us young.
2025 was a year of growth and adventure at Redrock Outdoor, from successful school residentials and HAF programmes at Exmouth Camp. the future is looking bright.
We create adventures that inspire growth. From HAF Devon to school camps, we help young people build confidence, resilience, and friendships.
Thinking ahead to 2026?
Now is the time to secure your school’s place on the Jurassic Coast for an unforgettable adventure.
✅ Lock in 2025 prices
✅ Choose the best dates
✅ New activities for 2026 – including axe throwing & aerial adventure
Looking for the perfect outdoor activity this summer? Red Rock Outdoor Ltd offers incredible opportunities for watersports hire and lessons in a safe, sheltered environment. Set against the stunning backdrop of Exmouth’s estuary, it’s an ideal location for beginners and those looking to improve their skills. Whether you’re interested in paddleboarding, kayaking, or windsurfing, we’ve got a range of options to suit you! Here’s our upcoming schedule for hire and lessons: 4th August | 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM 5th August | 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM 6th August | 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM 7th August | 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM 14th August | 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM 15th August | 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM 16th August | 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM 18th August | 12:00 PM – 3:30 PM 19th August | 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM 20th August | 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM 28th August | 8:00 AM – 11:30 AM 29th August | 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM 30th August | 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM Why Choose Red Rock Outdoor Ltd? Ideal Location: Our sessions are held in the estuary, providing a sheltered and safe environment perfect for beginners and those looking to refine their technique. Flexible Lessons: Whether you’re after family courses, 1-2-1 lessons, group lessons, or party packages, we have the perfect option to suit your needs. Qualified Instructors: Our team of experienced instructors will guide you through each activity, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience every time. Activities Offered: Choose from paddleboarding, kayaking, and windsurfing, ideal for all skill levels.
World speed record for windsurfing: The windsurfing speed record is currently held by Antoine Albeau with a speed of 53.49 knots (99.07 km/h), set at the 2024 Lüderitz Speed Challenge in Namibia. This record was achieved on December 1, 2024, according to JP Australia . Jenna Gibson also set a new women's world speed record at the same event, reaching 48.02 knots
RedRock Youth Experience Camps
There’s no better way to kick off the school year than by taking learning beyond the classroom and into the wild! At Red Rock Outdoor, our September Multi-Activity Residentials are specially designed to help pupils bond, build confidence, and step into the new term with energy and enthusiasm. Set just 200 metres from the beach above beautiful Orcombe Point in Exmouth, our full-board site offers a stunning base for adventure. With capacity for up to 240 students in self-contained coastal villages, it’s the perfect setting for both large and small groups. Our September programmes include a mix of unforgettable activities: 🌊 Watersports – paddleboarding, kayaking & mega SUP. 🔥 Survival SOS – a thrilling bushcraft experience with shelter building, fire lighting, and problem solving 🤝 Team Building Like No Other – dynamic group challenges that boost communication, leadership, and class cohesion It’s all about active rest—relaxing the mind by engaging the body in meaningful, exciting ways. Students return refreshed, connected, and ready to tackle the year ahead. Let’s get the year off to a flying start—enquire now to secure your September 2025 dates!
Winter updates
In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, children are spending more time indoors than ever before. Screens have become a central part of daily life, often replacing traditional outdoor activities. However, outdoor play is crucial for the holistic development of children, impacting their physical health, mental well-being, and social skills. At Red Rock Outdoor Ltd, we offer a variety of activities to help children thrive. 1. Physical Development Outdoor play enhances strength, coordination, and fitness. Activities like our Red Rock Rampage assault course, paddleboarding, kayaking, and windsurfing keep children active while building motor skills and promoting a healthy lifestyle. With the growing concerns around childhood obesity, outdoor play is a natural and enjoyable way to keep children active and healthy. 2. Cognitive and Emotional Growth Outdoor challenges stimulate creativity and problem-solving. Activities such as scavenger hunts, and archery foster critical thinking and resilience. Time in nature reduces stress and boosts mood, improving overall mental well-being. 3. Social Skills and Teamwork Group activities like our team-building challenges, mega SUP fun, and beach games teach communication and collaboration. These interactions help children form friendships, build confidence, and develop empathy for others. 4. Connection to Nature In an era where environmental awareness is becoming increasingly important, outdoor play fosters a connection to nature from an early age. Exploring natural spaces instils a sense of wonder and curiosity about the world around them, laying the foundation for lifelong learning. Discovering nature through woodcraft, snorkelling, or our Nature Trail helps children develop a sense of wonder and environmental awareness, encouraging them to care for the planet. 5. Mental Health Benefits Outdoor play reduces stress and increases happiness. Activities like our Survival SOS experience or windsurfing combine physical activity with nature, promoting emotional balance and resilience. 6. Breaking Screen Time Dependency Excessive screen time has been linked to various developmental issues, including attention deficits, sleep disturbances, and behavioural problems. Encouraging outdoor play provides a healthy alternative to screen-based entertainment, helping children develop a balanced lifestyle. It also gives them the chance to engage in unstructured play, which is critical for fostering independence and imagination. Encouraging Outdoor Play At Red Rock Outdoor Ltd, we make outdoor activities accessible and exciting. Whether it’s a day of watersports, or an adventurous assault course, we provide opportunities for children to grow and flourish while having fun. Outdoor play is vital for children’s health and development. By participating in activities like those offered at Red Rock Outdoor Ltd, children can enjoy a balanced lifestyle, improve their mental health, and develop essential life skills.
What sets us apart? Flexibility and customisation. We understand that every school is unique, which is why we’ve revamped the way we deliver our activities. Schools can now select from our individually priced activity list to create a bespoke package tailored to your students’ needs, preferences, and budget. Combine this with our competitive camp package, which includes comfortable accommodation, delicious meals, and access to all our on-site sporting facilities, and you’ve got an unbeatable experience for your students! Why Choose Red Rock Outdoor Ltd for Your Residential? Located on the stunning Jurassic Coast, our Exmouth Camp offers the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures and unforgettable memories. We combine hands-on learning with fun, teamwork, and personal growth, creating a holistic experience that students and staff alike will love. Activities to Build Your Perfect Residential Package Here’s a taste of what we offer: 1. Watersports Adventure • Paddleboarding: Glide across the calm waters and soak in the coastal views. • Kayaking: Perfect for beginners or experienced paddlers. • Mega SUP Fun: Teamwork is key as groups work together on this giant paddleboard. • snorkelling at Orcombe Point: Explore underwater life in a safe and supervised environment. 2. Archery and Team Challenges • Archery & Archery Tag: Sharpen your students' focus and coordination with classic and high-energy archery games. • Red Rock Rampage Assault Course: A mix of fun, fitness, and teamwork with obstacles like scramble nets, tunnels, stepping stones, and more. 3. Survival Skills & Nature Exploration • Survival SOS: A hands-on, 3-hour session where students learn basic survival techniques. • Nature Trail & Scavenger Hunt: A fun and educational way to explore the great outdoors. 4. Circus Skills & Fun Challenges • Circus Skills Workshop: Learn juggling, balancing, and more. • Team Building Activities: Foster collaboration and communication with engaging group challenges. 5. Windsurfing (Tide Dependent) For schools looking for a thrilling and skill-based activity, windsurfing is the perfect addition to your schedule. What’s Included in Our Camp Package? Our set-price camp package includes: • Accommodation in our well-equipped facilities. • All meals, freshly prepared to keep students energised. • Access to on-site sporting facilities, such as volleyball courts and recreational areas. This package ensures a hassle-free residential, leaving you free to focus on enjoying the experience alongside your students. Book Now to Secure Your Preferred Dates! May, June, and September are some of our most popular months, and availability is running out fast. Whether you’re planning a residential to build teamwork, enhance outdoor learning, or simply give students an unforgettable experience, Red Rock Outdoor Ltd has everything you need.