A survey of 2,000 adults aged 40 and over found four in 10 believe they are more ‘adventurous’ in their fifth decade – trying new things like sports, activities and hobbies.
Just under half also reported better, healthier friendships in their 40s than the ones they had in their 20s and 30s, due to having a greater understanding of others.
More than a third found themselves exercising more, to offset the natural changes that occur during the ageing process.
And 35 per cent of 40-somethings admit to prioritising holidays more now, than ever before.
Rebecca Phipps, spokesperson for Camping in the Forest, said: “It’s great to see that those over 40 are spending more time outdoors and experiencing new hobbies and activities more than ever before.
“Some people still have a misconception that once you get to a certain age, you aren’t interested in exploring and discovering new things, but our research shows that this absolutely isn’t the case.
“No matter what age you are, camping is a great way to get outside, reconnect with nature and most importantly, have fun.
"Whether it’s a scenic walk through the forest, kayaking on the river or a cycling adventure, there are plenty of activities to discover across our campsites this summer.”
The research also found 16 per cent of those over 40 find themselves entering more sporting events than they did in previous decades.
Just under four in 10 believe their general happiness is much higher now than at any other point in their lifetime, while one in three have seen more career success – including promotions, pay rises and landing their dream jobs.
A further 48 per cent started to take better care of their diet and pay more attention to what they were eating after their 40th birthday.
The study found in normal times, the average 40-year-old loves holidays and will go on four holidays a year – two short breaks, and two longer trips.
When it comes to keeping fit, the typical 40-something will exercise for an hour and 41 minutes each week and spend another hour and 44 minutes on their hobbies.
They’ll walk around in the great outdoors for an hour and 50 minutes, and spend one hour and seven minutes in the pub.
And just under three in 10 also feel more confident in their body now than they did when they were younger.
Following the findings, Camping in the Forest has launched a search for the UK’s most adventurous over-40 to become its new CEO – or Chief Exploration Officer – and get paid to spend time exploring the great outdoors.
The lucky applicant will receive a salary of £500 as well as a fun-filled itinerary of activities to test and feedback on throughout the summer, including a free pitch at three campsites.
Becky added: “What better way to recognise that life really does start at 40 than searching for the UK’s most active over 40-year-old.
"This new Chief Exploration Officer role is the perfect position for someone who knows their reef knot from their granny knot, loves exploring new places and thinks walking boots were made to be muddy.
"If this sounds like you, or someone you know, we want to hear from you.”
To find out more information, visit www.campingintheforest.co.uk/
IN A NORMAL WEEK, THE AVERAGE 40-YEAR-OLD SPENDS:
One hour and 41 minutes exercising
One hour and 44 minutes on hobbies
One hour and 50 minutes walking outdoors
One hour and two minutes eating in restaurants
One hour and seven minutes in the pub
One hour and 31 minutes with friends
ENDS
