No sooner had the memorable evening hike on the Seebodenalp – complete with a cosy stop-off at the Räbalp mountain inn on Thursday 23 July – become a cherished memory than the next adventure was already calling. A week later, the gymnasts from the men’s gymnastics group laced up their walking boots once more and set off for the picturesque Zuger Alpli.

As the gyms were closed during the summer holidays, the gymnasts swapped their indoor trainers for hiking boots. So the usual gymnastics sessions were quickly transformed into convivial evening hikes. The magnificent natural surroundings, good conversation and the friendly atmosphere ensured that exercise and socialising went hand in hand.

Anyone who might smile and assume that the men’s gymnastics group used the summer break primarily for cosy get-togethers is mistaken. The hikes were far more than just social outings – they kept body and mind active and strengthened the bond between the gymnasts.

But every summer break must come to an end. On Thursday 6 August, it’s time once again to lace up your indoor trainers, get your equipment ready and return to the usual training with vigour. The hiking trails give way to the gym floor once more – but the joy of exercise and the camaraderie remain the same. kh.