BLOATED, overweight, lethargic? Has your get-up and go got-up and gone, along with the leftover turkey?

Why is it that, at this time of year, so many of us start to slip into hibernation mode? asks fashion stylist Lucinda Hayton.

The festive period, with it's shop-till-you-drop, party-mood requirement, has kept you on a high, helping you to find the energy to keep going right through until the New Year.

And now, with the two big days' done and dusted, you are left feeling tired and stuffed like yesterday's turkey, hating the thought of a return to routine.

Most of us will have taken a break from our usual form of exercise, be it the gym, lengths at the pool or the twice a week lunchtime squash session - replacing it with hard-earned slumping in front of the TV.

So what will it take to get you up and about again, to help you to shake off the cobwebs and hangovers of New Year?

I asked stylist (and honed mountain biker) Tom Sharp for his ideas...

"Yesterday as I headed towards the shops of Ambleside, I witnessed an inspiring scene. Was it the cavalry riding across the horizon? Well, almost - a group of mountain bikers riding over the Lakeland fells, laughing, enjoying themselves and (here is the science bit) getting fit.

"Forget buying the latest trainers simply to run around the Trafford Centre in, here is the real deal. Just think about it for a moment: what could be better than getting together with a group of mates and getting out there on yer bike'?

"The group in question was the Thursday evening gang, brought together by Biketreks of Ambleside. Come rain or shine, whatever the time of year, they are out there on their bikes supporting each other and having fun. Biketreks have been bringing people together for rides such as these for a long time, and now, thankfully, it seems that other bike stores are following suit. Wheelbase, Keswick bikes and The Edge' in Lancaster all run spontaneous' rides throughout the year.

"Think of it, the fun of being out there on the hills and tracks with a group of like-minded people, enjoying yourself, getting fit, and (maybe after the first 20 minutes) feeling fantastic.

"Ask any of the guys and girls that regularly ride and they'll tell you, it's the best antidepressant on the market. Biking provides it all, vascular strength, a toned body and a clear and happy head.

"One of the Biketreks guys said that combining mountain biking with a spot of climbing on the local wall' had given him great abs and, according to his girlfriend, 'lots of stamina and a very firm behind'.

"There is another bonus to bike fitness - looking good! If you haven't visited one of the bike stores mentioned you should.

"With stylish brands like Berghaus, Pearl, iZumi, Nike, Gore, Bikewear, Endura, Helly Hansen and Bognor using some of the very latest technical materials including Paclite, Goretex and Next 2 Skin windstopper, these items of sports clothing look good and really perform.

"And it doesn't stop at clothing. Check out the bike boots, helmets (Giro helmets are superb) and uv protection eye wear by Bolle, Oakley and Adidas.

"Most bike stores will have a team of trained, bike enthusiasts behind the counter. They will be able to sort out what's best for you."