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Search 69,459 Camino Questions

Not getting my training time in....

jkberry

Member
Time of past OR future Camino
1st Frances, 9/18
2nd Portuguese 5/20
Hello all, I am booked to walk the CF in September and am way behind on training for ever so many reasons. I am now a bit concerned about how I am going to fare, since the month in front of me looks bad for training too (lots of unexpected major life events and 100* weather). I can go very slowly, I have all the time I need and a one way ticket. I am 61, previously fit, not so much now but can do 5 miles easily. Have finally found my proper shoes and pack. I know it would be much better if I had months of training with my pack but sadly that is not going to happen. This is my chance to go. I guess I just need support here because it does not appear I am going to change my mind about going. I really need to do this, and now.
Booked at Orisson on Sept 11. Maybe I will see some of you along the way.

If any of you have tips on how to manage this situation I am in I would love to hear them.
 
Get a spanish phone number with Airalo. eSim, so no physical SIM card. Easy to use app to add more funds if needed.
Hi jkberry!

5 miles sounds pretty good to me for the first days, while your body is getting used to the trail. Naturally you will slowly be able to go further and further. And if you found a good pack and shoes, great! I'd suggest using the shoes as much as you can before you go, so they get well adapted to your feet, and carry the backpack when possible.

Everything else is not a matter of worry - you do not have any set stages or obligations to anyone, so just walk as much as you feel like, and stop when you feel tired. Do not push yourself and take you time. If you are looking at a guide book, please note that the suggested stages are exactly that: suggested. You walk and stop when you decide, because this is your camino, ok?

Have a great journey, peregrina! :D
 
My guess is that you will do fine. Take your time, walking each day. You'll build up to it. Don't get pulled into any competitions or expectations from others about how far you *should* be walking. Take pride in stopping to smell the roses and enjoying the experience. One beauty of the Camino Frances is that there are usually lots of options for stopping for the night just about when you feel like you've had enough walking. Some of the younger walkers with lots of training will overdo it early on and are just as likely to end up injured or exhausted if they don't pay attention to their bodies' signals. Check into having your backpack transferred ahead of you if that's helpful, too. Buen Camino!
 
A selection of Camino Jewellery
Don't worry about it too much. Lots of people walk the Camino with zero training. Are you starting at SJPDP? If so, have you booked at Orisson to break up that first stage?
And for the training that you can do - focus on hills as much as possible.
 
Hi jkberry!

5 miles sounds pretty good to me for the first days, while your body is getting used to the trail. Naturally you will slowly be able to go further and further. And if you found a good pack and shoes, great! I'd suggest using the shoes as much as you can before you go, so they get well adapted to your feet, and carry the backpack when possible.

Everything else is not a matter of worry - you do not have any set stages or obligations to anyone, so just walk as much as you feel like, and stop when you feel tired. Do not push yourself and take you time. If you are looking at a guide book, please note that the suggested stages are exactly that: suggested. You walk and stop when you decide, because this is your camino, ok?

Have a great journey, peregrina! :D
Thank you Anamya, I am walking daily in my shoes just not the distance I had hoped. Thanks for the encouragement! Jill
 
Don't worry about it too much. Lots of people walk the Camino with zero training. Are you starting at SJPDP? If so, have you booked at Orisson to break up that first stage?

And for the training that you can do - focus on hills as much as possible.

I am from Colorado and have been hiking hills for years so I think I will be okay on the hills with moderation. I am starting at SJPDP and have a reservation at Orisson.
 
New Original Camino Gear Designed Especially with The Modern Peregrino In Mind!
I have seen a lot of people walking without training. The biggest mistake a lot of those people made was to try and keep up with the ones that did train before theor Camino or where more fit. The result was a lot of pain and broken spirits. So my advice is: don't attach yourself to anyone too much that you can't go your own pace. There are nice people starting every day and it is so easy to connect to people on the Camino that you can always find someone to talk to. Make it an experience you can enjoy all parts of!
 
I think you will be more prepared than most of the people walking. As long as you have got some distance in your footwear everything will be fine. Booking into orisson is such a good idea as then you have two whole days to get to roncesvalles and makes it a fairly easy prospect. After that you can walk short stages for a few days. Treat them as your training for the rest of the long walk.

Just take your time. I'm your age and had zero recent hill practice (tho I walk a lot) when I started last year. I had no problems the first couple of weeks. My problem was I became over confident and started powering along too fast overstriding and then got some issues.
Have a great camino.
 
Hello all, I am booked to walk the CF in September and am way behind on training for ever so many reasons. I am now a bit concerned about how I am going to fare, since the month in front of me looks bad for training too (lots of unexpected major life events and 100* weather). I can go very slowly, I have all the time I need and a one way ticket. I am 61, previously fit, not so much now but can do 5 miles easily. Have finally found my proper shoes and pack. I know it would be much better if I had months of training with my pack but sadly that is not going to happen. This is my chance to go. I guess I just need support here because it does not appear I am going to change my mind about going. I really need to do this, and now.
Booked at Orisson on Sept 11. Maybe I will see some of you along the way.

If any of you have tips on how to manage this situation I am in I would love to hear them.
Don't think of the Camino as a targeted exercise. It's not a race! I too am probably not as prepared as I would like and I too have not booked a return ticket - so, what's your rush?
Five miles with pack and footware is a pretty good start I would say. And yes it is the biggest physical challange that we have yet to face but if you really want to do it - you can and will.
God speed.
 
The one from Galicia (the round) and the one from Castilla & Leon. Individually numbered and made by the same people that make the ones you see on your walk.
You've got the shoes and socks and miles on them, you've got the pack and it fits, those are the main things. Keep the pack load light, start slow, book ahead if you need to and don't try and keep up with faster moving groups, there are just as interesting people coming behind you. You fitness will increase as you go and your milage can then increase l if you need or want to. Look at your first two or three days as these are probably the hardest of the whole walk and take them slow, for them definitely book ahead.

I was older than you and at about the same level but averaged over the whole distance 25 km per day and, as the early days were short distances, must have reached close to 30km day at the end.

And finally go for it and enjoy it and as you have a one way ticket take the time to explore.
 
@jkberry I agree with the posts above, you will be fine if you pace yourself. Stop when you need to. The first two days (SJPDP to Orisson, and Orisson to Roncesvalles) will probably be the hardest, and by stopping at Orisson you have given yourself the best chance. Be aware that the third day is a difficult long haul too, but there are various places you can stop to shorten or ease that day.

I often fail dismally in my preparation and consider the first two weeks on any camino as "training".
 
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Considering the heat I would do a bit of swimming and some yoga indoors for endurance core strength. It may not help as much as it would do some trekking but it will help you to focus on the Camino.
Have a great Camino!
 
A selection of Camino Jewellery
Hi jkberry,

Since most days I don't have time to take a long walk, I just take short ones throughout the day. I walk before work, on breaks, and at lunch. If I have time I will drive to and walk a hilly trail on my way home from work.

Also instead of getting in the car for shorter trips, I will walk if I can. This seems to work better when alone, since apparently not everyone enjoys walking as much as me.
 
The first edition came out in 2003 and has become the go-to-guide for many pilgrims over the years. It is shipping with a Pilgrim Passport (Credential) from the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela.
Just be thankful that you are able to walk at all and that you have the means to get out to Spain. I'm sure that all of us would like to be physically fitter than we are at any one moment in time. I'm 65. I believe that as long as you are positive mentally and that you really really want to do the Camino then the rest of the body will follow. Just take it steady at first. I commence my 1st Camino (Frances) on Sept 22. I too have a one way ticket at the moment. This arrangement allows me to take as long as I feel it necessary for a successful outcome. I estimate it'll take between 5 to 6 weeks. I have been training with full pack for quite some time. I know I can do 20 miles on hilly terrain in quite warm temperatures with no problems. But I haven't yet been able to test my stamina by being able to go out on the day after the 20 mile walk nor the day after that as the temperatures here in the UK have been over 30 centigrade for the last couple of weeks. So my training plan has been affected too. The weather forecast predicts a 'cooler' spell this coming weekend so I plan to walk on the coming Saturday/Sunday/Monday. It'll be the first time that I'd have walked on 3 successive days.

Good Luck with it all.
 
The 2024 Camino guides will be coming out little by little. Here is a collection of the ones that are out so far.
I have seen a lot of people walking without training. The biggest mistake a lot of those people made was to try and keep up with the ones that did train before theor Camino or where more fit. The result was a lot of pain and broken spirits. So my advice is: don't attach yourself to anyone too much that you can't go your own pace. There are nice people starting every day and it is so easy to connect to people on the Camino that you can always find someone to talk to. Make it an experience you can enjoy all parts of!

very good advice here. Thank you. The theme for me will be non-attachement!
 
Just be thankful that you are able to walk at all and that you have the means to get out to Spain. I'm sure that all of us would like to be physically fitter than we are at any one moment in time. I'm 65. I believe that as long as you are positive mentally and that you really really want to do the Camino then the rest of the body will follow. Just take it steady at first. I commence my 1st Camino (Frances) on Sept 22. I too have a one way ticket at the moment. This arrangement allows me to take as long as I feel it necessary for a successful outcome. I estimate it'll take between 5 to 6 weeks. I have been training with full pack for quite some time. I know I can do 20 miles on hilly terrain in quite warm temperatures with no problems. But I haven't yet been able to test my stamina by being able to go out on the day after the 20 mile walk nor the day after that as the temperatures here in the UK have been over 30 centigrade for the last couple of weeks. So my training plan has been affected too. The weather forecast predicts a 'cooler' spell this coming weekend so I plan to walk on the coming Saturday/Sunday/Monday. It'll be the first time that I'd have walked on 3 successive days.

Good Luck with it all.
You sound really prepared and I hope this weekend goes really well! Thanks for sharing.
 
From aceace:
Hello all, I am booked to walk the CF in September and am way behind on training for ever so many reasons. I am now a bit concerned about how I am going to fare, since the month in front of me looks bad for training too (lots of unexpected major life events and 100* weather). I can go very slowly, I have all the time I need and a one way ticket. I am 61, previously fit, not so much now but can do 5 miles easily. Have finally found my proper shoes and pack. I know it would be much better if I had months of training with my pack but sadly that is not going to happen. This is my chance to go. I guess I just need support here because it does not appear I am going to change my mind about going. I really need to do this, and now.
Booked at Orisson on Sept 11. Maybe I will see some of you along the way.

To which user name would you like responses?
My name is Jill
 
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One extra bit of advice, forget the Brierley stages. As others have said, walk your pace. I’d say the first ten days are where your body adjusts to the daily walking. Don’t stretch your stops during that time if you can help it. I don’t know how many times I’ve heard people tell stories of having all sorts of aches and pains during the first ten days that just magically went away. That is what happened to me. I struggled into Viana, with hips that were screaming at me to stop, which I did. I checked myself into a hotel (one of only three times), soaked in a hot tub, slept like a baby, and got up the next day feeling like a million bucks. From there on out I had no significant physical issues.
 
Considering the heat I would do a bit of swimming and some yoga indoors for endurance core strength. It may not help as much as it would do some trekking but it will help you to focus on the Camino.
Have a great Camino!


That is a good idea. Will do yoga. I am traveling a lot, an interstate move but I can do yoga in my hotel room.
 
One extra bit of advice, forget the Brierley stages. As others have said, walk your pace. I’d say the first ten days are where your body adjusts to the daily walking. Don’t stretch your stops during that time if you can help it. I don’t know how many times I’ve heard people tell stories of having all sorts of aches and pains during the first ten days that just magically went away. That is what happened to me. I struggled into Viana, with hips that were screaming at me to stop, which I did. I checked myself into a hotel (one of only three times), soaked in a hot tub, slept like a baby, and got up the next day feeling like a million bucks. From there on out I had no significant physical issues.

Good advice. Was not going to try to keep up but I do love the hotel break idea.
 
New Original Camino Gear Designed Especially with The Modern Peregrino In Mind!
I did my first camino in April. I'm headed back in September too. I'm older than you but did train hard. But you know what - all the above advice is so on target. Go your pace, stop frequently is my advice and rest your feet. I also live in 100 degree weather and its flat here so my training is limited to the gym. You'll be surprised how well you will do if you listen to your body. My advice would be to not carry a lot of weight. I found my pack, which only weighed 13 pounds loaded with water, was still too heavy. I noticed many pilgrims carrying day packs. Give it some thought about sending the pack ahead and carry a lighter load. Made a big difference when I switched in Leon. You'll do fine - really. Go and have fun and enjoy yourself. I bet you surprise yourself.
 
Change the age and Im in exactly the same boat!!!
I suspect every one wishes they were more prepared, fitter, thinner, younger etc...
maybe thats all part of the process- facing our fears, doubts and worries and going any ways!!
You will be fine because you are going and thats a wonderful thing.
wether you walk 5 km, 10km, or 35 km in a day it doesn't matter- you will be on your camino!!

Woulda , coulda shoulda......Buen Camino!!!
 
Hello all, I am booked to walk the CF in September and am way behind on training for ever so many reasons. I am now a bit concerned about how I am going to fare, since the month in front of me looks bad for training too (lots of unexpected major life events and 100* weather). I can go very slowly, I have all the time I need and a one way ticket. I am 61, previously fit, not so much now but can do 5 miles easily. Have finally found my proper shoes and pack. I know it would be much better if I had months of training with my pack but sadly that is not going to happen. This is my chance to go. I guess I just need support here because it does not appear I am going to change my mind about going. I really need to do this, and now.
Booked at Orisson on Sept 11. Maybe I will see some of you along the way.

If any of you have tips on how to manage this situation I am in I would love to hear them.
If you've got all the time you need and a one way ticket, I wouldn't worry about it. When I walked from Roncesvalles to Finisterre in 2016, I had ZERO training before I left. I was in my 50s and I have a full time, very sedentary job, so I wouldn't have called myself someone who was very fit.

After the first day, we took three shorter (15 km) days and gradually built up our distance to 25 to 30 km, until we realized that was too much for my son's feet and we dropped back to 20-25 km.

The message being: start slow and build up to what is comfortable for you. You've got lots of time and generally lots of options where to stop. You can do this. Don't change your mind for this worry.
 
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Hello all, I am booked to walk the CF in September and am way behind on training for ever so many reasons. I am now a bit concerned about how I am going to fare, since the month in front of me looks bad for training too (lots of unexpected major life events and 100* weather). I can go very slowly, I have all the time I need and a one way ticket. I am 61, previously fit, not so much now but can do 5 miles easily. Have finally found my proper shoes and pack. I know it would be much better if I had months of training with my pack but sadly that is not going to happen. This is my chance to go. I guess I just need support here because it does not appear I am going to change my mind about going. I really need to do this, and now.
Booked at Orisson on Sept 11. Maybe I will see some of you along the way.

If any of you have tips on how to manage this situation I am in I would love to hear them.

Hello jkberry,
Most of us will understand your concern.

Perhaps it will help if I remind you that to train to walk a Camino is nigh on impossible. The best we 'normal' people can hope to achieve is to get to level of fitness and stamina that will allow us to start comfortably, and to walk our own comfortable distance without exhausting or injuring ourselves.

If that distance is 5 or 25 miles it matters not. We all usually walk 'into' greater fitness and stamina levels with each passing day and after a week or so, for most, with care, the daily distance increases.

You have time on your side, so pack light, relax, be self-disciplined and allow yourself to enjoy your Camino.

Buen (walking into fitness) Camino
 
Change the age and Im in exactly the same boat!!!
I suspect every one wishes they were more prepared, fitter, thinner, younger etc...
maybe thats all part of the process- facing our fears, doubts and worries and going any ways!!
You will be fine because you are going and thats a wonderful thing.
wether you walk 5 km, 10km, or 35 km in a day it doesn't matter- you will be on your camino!!

Woulda , coulda shoulda......Buen Camino!!!

You're 200% correct. Right up to the moment of my departure I'll be wondering whether I've got the right gear, whether the rucksack is too heavy, whether the bed bugs will get me, whether I'll have any health problems, etc etc. So can't wait to get away and get started. If nothing else us humans are an adaptable species having survived 2 million years of existence on the planet. And when we come together as a community we should be greater than the sum of our component parts. I feel sure that the camaraderie that I'll encounter will be a great source of information, help and encouragement in times of need. Add a good dollop of Good Humour and Good Luck all should turn out fine.
 
Hello all, I am booked to walk the CF in September and am way behind on training for ever so many reasons. I am now a bit concerned about how I am going to fare, since the month in front of me looks bad for training too (lots of unexpected major life events and 100* weather). I can go very slowly, I have all the time I need and a one way ticket. I am 61, previously fit, not so much now but can do 5 miles easily. Have finally found my proper shoes and pack. I know it would be much better if I had months of training with my pack but sadly that is not going to happen. This is my chance to go. I guess I just need support here because it does not appear I am going to change my mind about going. I really need to do this, and now.
Booked at Orisson on Sept 11. Maybe I will see some of you along the way.

If any of you have tips on how to manage this situation I am in I would love to hear them.
I walked from Leon last year with no training. I had surgery on a couple of toes and wasn't permitted to walk until about a week before flight. I didn't go far each day, but i did it just fine. And you will too. The important thing is to go! walk the distance you can and stop for the night! overdoing a few days meant i needed a day off the next day. And pack weight! Get it down. Weigh your stuff. One to wear and one spare and the bare minimum. Folks wear t-shirt and underwear to bed: don't take a nightgown, don't take anything extra. Spare trousers and shirt, maybe 3 underwear, bra or bralet if required, 3 socks [i used good wool ones] and the minimum of toiletries [toothbrush, paste, and bar of shampoo double purpose soap (cut it in half and then quarters if possible- take only half in two pieces] and meds. A spork and plastic camping cup are handy for when albergie has no dishes. Also to eat lunch. Check the list of stuff required on this forum. Ship your extra stuff ahead for flight home.
 
The focus is on reducing the risk of failure through being well prepared. 2nd ed.
You're 200% correct. Right up to the moment of my departure I'll be wondering whether I've got the right gear, whether the rucksack is too heavy, whether the bed bugs will get me, whether I'll have any health problems, etc etc. So can't wait to get away and get started. If nothing else us humans are an adaptable species having survived 2 million years of existence on the planet. And when we come together as a community we should be greater than the sum of our component parts. I feel sure that the camaraderie that I'll encounter will be a great source of information, help and encouragement in times of need. Add a good dollop of Good Humour and Good Luck all should turn out fine.

i have decided that the more time I have before I leave ( 27 days!) the crazier I am getting. I keep buying " better stuff" more stuff, stuff I might need, should have. What about this....how about that....??? I just need to go already!!!

Think about it. Plan a huge epic trip for a year....internet searches, bookings, daydreaming....dont get me started on the lists!!! Crazy!
BUT..... I had a friend with an empty paid for house in the Italian alps with his families paid for air tickets offered to me and my family ( due to emergency). Guess what - five people out the door and to the airport in about 8 hours. Everything was fine. No lists.

JUST GOOOOOOOOO!
 
Hello all, I am booked to walk the CF in September and am way behind on training for ever so many reasons. I am now a bit concerned about how I am going to fare, since the month in front of me looks bad for training too (lots of unexpected major life events and 100* weather). I can go very slowly, I have all the time I need and a one way ticket. I am 61, previously fit, not so much now but can do 5 miles easily. Have finally found my proper shoes and pack. I know it would be much better if I had months of training with my pack but sadly that is not going to happen. This is my chance to go. I guess I just need support here because it does not appear I am going to change my mind about going. I really need to do this, and now.
Booked at Orisson on Sept 11. Maybe I will see some of you along the way.

If any of you have tips on how to manage this situation I am in I would love to hear them.
Being relatively fit for our ages (60yrs old), we decided in 2015 to do the Camino, leaving April 2016. Life got in the way and by the end of Feb our fitness level was at its worst. We seriously considered cancelling. The light-bulb moment came when we decided that we could train along the Way. Take it easy, listen to our bodies, stop and smell the roses etc. We hurt doing the Pyrenees, rested and healed in Pamplona, had a couple more rest and heal stops in Burgos and Leon. Our instinct to 'just do it' morphed into the often heard phrase along the Way. It was our Camino, we did it our way. Having said this, the one bit of preparation that should not be ignored is your footwear. Find the right fit and break them in before you embark. Everything else will work itself out if you just let it. Its Your Camino - Do It Your Way
 
Get a spanish phone number with Airalo. eSim, so no physical SIM card. Easy to use app to add more funds if needed.
Not sure if anyone mentioned this but you might want to send your pack ahead to Orrison and then the next day to Roncevalles. Lots of us do so for these two sections. You do not have to decide till you get to St Jean...
 
Being relatively fit for our ages (60yrs old), we decided in 2015 to do the Camino, leaving April 2016. Life got in the way and by the end of Feb our fitness level was at its worst. We seriously considered cancelling. The light-bulb moment came when we decided that we could train along the Way. Take it easy, listen to our bodies, stop and smell the roses etc. We hurt doing the Pyrenees, rested and healed in Pamplona, had a couple more rest and heal stops in Burgos and Leon. Our instinct to 'just do it' morphed into the often heard phrase along the Way. It was our Camino, we did it our way. Having said this, the one bit of preparation that should not be ignored is your footwear. Find the right fit and break them in before you embark. Everything else will work itself out if you just let it. Its Your Camino - Do It Your Way

Thank you Brian and Deb. I am good on the shoes and will copy you on the first few days. Jill
 
Not sure if anyone mentioned this but you might want to send your pack ahead to Orrison and then the next day to Roncevalles. Lots of us do so for these two sections. You do not have to decide till you get to St Jean...

I did not think of that but I will do that. Have a small daypack I can use.
 
The 2024 Camino guides will be coming out little by little. Here is a collection of the ones that are out so far.
Not sure if anyone mentioned this but you might want to send your pack ahead to Orrison and then the next day to Roncevalles. Lots of us do so for these two sections. You do not have to decide till you get to St Jean...
I'll be two days behind you so walk slow, smell the roses and I'll look forward to meeting you soon!


I will do that Krista!
 
i have decided that the more time I have before I leave ( 27 days!) the crazier I am getting. I keep buying " better stuff" more stuff, stuff I might need, should have. What about this....how about that....??? I just need to go already!!!

Think about it. Plan a huge epic trip for a year....internet searches, bookings, daydreaming....dont get me started on the lists!!! Crazy!
BUT..... I had a friend with an empty paid for house in the Italian alps with his families paid for air tickets offered to me and my family ( due to emergency). Guess what - five people out the door and to the airport in about 8 hours. Everything was fine. No lists.

JUST GOOOOOOOOO!
Boy I can relate to all of this. And I am buying a house in another state this month, so I am wackadoodle. If I get there that will be good. Thanks!
 
All great info about going at your own pace, etc. I’ll add two cents, compliments of an anonymous Frenchman I met hiking the TMB last year when, admittedly, I wasn’t as conditioned as I had hoped. On day one we were on a particularly long uphill slog (hiking up a mountain) and I was stopping frequently to catch my breath. “Madam, you are breathing hard!,” said Anonymous Frenchman, “You must make smaller steps!,” he added. When I said I couldn’t go any slower he said, “No, not slower! Baby steps!” He demonstrated putting his heal down just in front of his toe, taking tiny steps. To my amazement, this technique allowed me to continue the steep ascent without breathing breaks. Also, you are used to Colorado mountains so your body’s muscle memory will probably have you catch up to speed pretty quickly! If you are interested, other advice I have found to be invaluable: 1) generous vasoline on my feet stopped blister progression, 2) a podiatrist suggested to pull out my socks past my foot just before putting on my shoes to create a cushion between the tops of my toes and shoes. The latter seems like it would be uncomfortable but just the opposite. Buen Camino!
 
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Hi Jill. We are 61 and 68 respectively. We are booked at Orisson and Roncesvalles 14 and 15 September. We are sending on our bags both days. Not sure if we’ll meet because I’m very slow on the uphills. Though looking forward if we do
 
All great info about going at your own pace, etc. I’ll add two cents, compliments of an anonymous Frenchman I met hiking the TMB last year when, admittedly, I wasn’t as conditioned as I had hoped. On day one we were on a particularly long uphill slog (hiking up a mountain) and I was stopping frequently to catch my breath. “Madam, you are breathing hard!,” said Anonymous Frenchman, “You must make smaller steps!,” he added. When I said I couldn’t go any slower he said, “No, not slower! Baby steps!” He demonstrated putting his heal down just in front of his toe, taking tiny steps. To my amazement, this technique allowed me to continue the steep ascent without breathing breaks. Also, you are used to Colorado mountains so your body’s muscle memory will probably have you catch up to speed pretty quickly! If you are interested, other advice I have found to be invaluable: 1) generous vasoline on my feet stopped blister progression, 2) a podiatrist suggested to pull out my socks past my foot just before putting on my shoes to create a cushion between the tops of my toes and shoes. The latter seems like it would be uncomfortable but just the opposite. Buen Camino!

Lots of good ideas! I am so glad I came here and asked thank you. Jill
 
I did not think of that but I will do that. Have a small daypack I can use.
Consider using your comfortable well fitted backpack, but send heavy items ahead in a small compressible bag. Regardless osmf how much weight you are carrying your backpack should have a hip belt and sternum strap to carry it comfortably.
 
The focus is on reducing the risk of failure through being well prepared. 2nd ed.
Not sure if anyone mentioned this but you might want to send your pack ahead to Orrison and then the next day to Roncevalles. Lots of us do so for these two sections. You do not have to decide till you get to St Jean...

I am going to do this. great idea. Jill
 
Hello all, I am booked to walk the CF in September and am way behind on training for ever so many reasons. I am now a bit concerned about how I am going to fare, since the month in front of me looks bad for training too (lots of unexpected major life events and 100* weather). I can go very slowly, I have all the time I need and a one way ticket. I am 61, previously fit, not so much now but can do 5 miles easily. Have finally found my proper shoes and pack. I know it would be much better if I had months of training with my pack but sadly that is not going to happen. This is my chance to go. I guess I just need support here because it does not appear I am going to change my mind about going. I really need to do this, and now.
Booked at Orisson on Sept 11. Maybe I will see some of you along the way.

If any of you have tips on how to manage this situation I am in I would love to hear them.
I think you'll be fine. I'm having difficulty getting quality training in outside because it's been either 100+ degrees and sweltering or pouring rain here for months. I have been going to the gym to walk the treadmill , but I think the most important piece of advice I can give you is to learn a few core strengthening exercises that you can do in your home every time you get a few minutes. I've always done pilates in the past while training and have found that a good strong core/back/shoulders are infinitely more important than the walking legs. If you can squeeze in a class or two to learn the basics and be diligent about doing it at home, I think you'll be okay. You have the luxury of walking at your own pace. You will build your stamina along the way. The other piece is posture....always be mindful of your shoulders being over your hips, over your knees, inline....don't walk like cromagnon man with your pack...you can practice posture now. Buen Camino !
 
Consider using your comfortable well fitted backpack, but send heavy items ahead in a small compressible bag. Regardless osmf how much weight you are carrying your backpack should have a hip belt and sternum strap to carry it comfortably.[/QUOTE

Such a good idea! Thank you. Jill
 
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I'm not worrying about you @jkberry. You've hiked before. You know what you are capable of of what might cause you problems. Just keep these things in mind and make the right decisions on your rest stops. Make the decisions before ordering the wine though, okay?
 
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You are NOT yet *another* Jill? I'm used to being the only one around and there are like 40 of us in this forum.
(or at LEAST four)
You are NOT yet *another* Jill? I'm used to being the only one around and there are like 40 of us in this forum.
(or at LEAST four)

I don't know anyone named Jill in my daily life. Only here. What's up with that? :)
 
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I lived in Italy for while, same issue. Have no idea how to say "X" in Spanish yet but will practice!
 
"I can go very slowly, I have all the time I need and a one way ticket."

You answer your own question. Enjoy! :)
 
Set aside your concerns, walk at your own pace and embark on what will be a wonderful journey.

Last year, having managed to do absolutely no training walks and not being particularly fit, I felt rather as you do before setting off on my first Camino. My preparation was, perhaps, not the most sensible way to do it and, if asked, I would of course advise some training walks with a pack and the kit one plans to take. But as much as fitness, that preparation allows familiarisation with one’s kit (pack, footwear, items required and, more especially, items that are not). Assuming one has time, the fitness side largely takes care of itself if one sets off at a slow & comfortable pace, takes care not to overdo it, and gradually builds from there. As it happens, I overpacked and, after a few days walking, ended up sending quite a lot of superfluous gear ahead to Santiago, but even there, the great service Ivar provides in holding gear helps limit concern on that front as if you have too much, it can always be sent on or given away.

I guess what I’m trying to say is; once one sets off, there is really not much worth worrying overly about. As one relaxes into the walk, niggles or difficulties become part of the journey and often rise among the best memories.

Enjoy your Camino
 
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Hi jkberry (Jill), I am also booked in orrison on the 11th Sept and like yourself have not done the training i would like. This is my second camino last time ifinished in Burgos so have some idea of what to expect. Im from Australia its winter here so long distance walks are not to appealing in high winds and lots of rain. But my boots have lots of km and are well worn in and i have had my pack for many years. All good advice above and my plan is to go slow and walk my pace. No attachments and I actually enjoy walking alone anyway for reflection and meditation. Also to stop half way through the walking day to take boots off and air feet out. I will look for you at the communal dinner and say hi. Buen Camino
 
Hi jkberry (Jill), I am also booked in orrison on the 11th Sept and like yourself have not done the training i would like. This is my second camino last time ifinished in Burgos so have some idea of what to expect. Im from Australia its winter here so long distance walks are not to appealing in high winds and lots of rain. But my boots have lots of km and are well worn in and i have had my pack for many years. All good advice above and my plan is to go slow and walk my pace. No attachments and I actually enjoy walking alone anyway for reflection and meditation. Also to stop half way through the walking day to take boots off and air feet out. I will look for you at the communal dinner and say hi. Buen Camino

How exciting! I will for sure see at Orisson and perhaps more often along the way. I too stop half way and change socks which in the past has kept my feet from blistering. I am actually planning on going very, very slowly at the beginning and then build up. Thanks for writing, I will meet you soon!
 
Don't think of the Camino as a targeted exercise. It's not a race! I too am probably not as prepared as I would like and I too have not booked a return ticket - so, what's your rush?
Five miles with pack and footware is a pretty good start I would say. And yes it is the biggest physical challange that we have yet to face but if you really want to do it - you can and will.
God speed.


I agree so much. Maybe too many people go there for the 'challenge', as if it was some kind of competition. Not sure it is the spirit of the chemin. I like the expression 'God speed', whatever the god.
 
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Hi Jill,

I will be starting this years Camino Sept 18th in Pamplona with my daughter. WE were supposed to go last May but she broke her ankle in March so postponed to September. It will be my 4th so plenty experience to share. I am 56 and like you , reasonable fit. The 1st Camino I did a lot of prep but went way too far each day the first week. Kept myself to the known stages. I learned my lesson. The 2nd time I did again a lot of prep but took it really slow the first week (no more then 18 km a day) and did great. The 3rd time :( NO prep what so ever but did ok. It was a bit harder going uphill but slow and steady will work. Now this year I haven't done any prep there I have been busy remodeling a house for the last 4 months (and walking in the summer heat and humidity in FL is NO fun.) So I am actually pretty fit due to remodel work but no distances walked. That being said I just know now I will be fine. The distances ......I'll see each day how far we get (and how my daughters ankle holds up) .....the hills....go slow...... No more then 12/14 lbs pack. If needed, forward your pack now and then on the steepest stages.
Thinking about all , the biggest mistake I made during my 1st Camino was rushing all. Like many say....wanting to keep up. Don't. Enjoy all at your pace. WE may run into you . Mother/daughter leaving Pamplona Sept 18th green and maroon packs with Dutch and American flags :) Buen Camino
 
Hello all, I am booked to walk the CF in September and am way behind on training for ever so many reasons. I am now a bit concerned about how I am going to fare, since the month in front of me looks bad for training too (lots of unexpected major life events and 100* weather). I can go very slowly, I have all the time I need and a one way ticket. I am 61, previously fit, not so much now but can do 5 miles easily. Have finally found my proper shoes and pack. I know it would be much better if I had months of training with my pack but sadly that is not going to happen. This is my chance to go. I guess I just need support here because it does not appear I am going to change my mind about going. I really need to do this, and now.
Booked at Orisson on Sept 11. Maybe I will see some of you along the way.

If any of you have tips on how to manage this situation I am in I would love to hear them.
Take your rucksack when you go shopping. Put your groceries in it. Get the feel of the weight. Don’t pack too much clothing. You can always buy the odd tee shirt...
 
Get a spanish phone number with Airalo. eSim, so no physical SIM card. Easy to use app to add more funds if needed.
Hi Jill,

I will be starting this years Camino Sept 18th in Pamplona with my daughter. WE were supposed to go last May but she broke her ankle in March so postponed to September. It will be my 4th so plenty experience to


I hope I do run into both of you! It is exceptional to hear your story and thank you for the encouragement. I am going to go very slow at the start and see how it goes. The very best you you and your daughter. I hope to walk with mine one day.
 
I don't know anyone named Jill in my daily life. Only here. What's up with that? :)

I know. Then there is jsalt here and, it turns out, Kanga is a Jill. I was always the only one. All I know is that if I sign my name in Spain "Xil", they pronounce it correctly (a tad more like "Chill", but close).
 
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@jkberry I agree with the posts above, you will be fine if you pace yourself. Stop when you need to. The first two days (SJPDP to Orisson, and Orisson to Roncesvalles) will probably be the hardest, and by stopping at Orisson you have given yourself the best chance. Be aware that the third day is a difficult long haul too, but there are various places you can stop to shorten or ease that day.

I often fail dismally in my preparation and consider the first two weeks on any camino as "training".
Oh thank you for this wisdom: I have had to accept that the first weeks of my Camino will be my training, too. Life has thrown up every obstacle to prevent my intended training walks, ever since January this year. But, I am still heading over and I am still going to start walking Sept 1st and what will be will be.
 
Oh thank you for this wisdom: I have had to accept that the first weeks of my Camino will be my training, too. Life has thrown up every obstacle to prevent my intended training walks, ever since January this year. But, I am still heading over and I am still going to start walking Sept 1st and what will be will be.
My husband and I start Sept 1 also. Because of wildfire smoke our training has been drastically reduced too. Day 1 we are going to the virgin. Day 2 virginnto Roncesvalles. Burn camino
 
Ideal sleeping bag liner whether we want to add a thermal plus to our bag, or if we want to use it alone to sleep in shelters or hostels. Thanks to its mummy shape, it adapts perfectly to our body.

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My husband and I start Sept 1 also. Because of wildfire smoke our training has been drastically reduced too. Day 1 we are going to the virgin. Day 2 virginnto Roncesvalles. Burn camino
Great Pun Charlotte! Does training indoors, like an elliptical work at all. I'm in California and we have pretty bad smoke with the fires too
 
I just came home to the smoke in Southern Oregon on Monday. I wish that I was still in Spain! But at least I escaped it for a month and a half!
They said it's as bad as chinese pollution for Portland and Seattle now due to California fires, sorry!
 
Get a spanish phone number with Airalo. eSim, so no physical SIM card. Easy to use app to add more funds if needed.
Wow. My sympathies to all pilgrims in training out west! I can understand a little as we had lots of smoke on The Ingles last fall, from fires miles and miles away. Tough going. Buen Camino a todo!
 
The idea of distance prior to going is that what your body equipment and feet feel like at 10 Km may not be what you experience at 15, 17 or 21
finding that out ahead of time to be able to tweek your gear
 
The idea of distance prior to going is that what your body equipment and feet feel like at 10 Km may not be what you experience at 15, 17 or 21
finding that out ahead of time to be able to tweek your gear
Absolutely. And if possible do it on at least three consecutive days. It can sometimes take a few days for blister problems to show up.
Before my first Camino I walked 10 miles a day for five days, then one 15 mile day.
 
St James' Way - Self-guided 4-7 day Walking Packages, Reading to Southampton, 110 kms
In the ideal world, that is what I wd have done. But, here in the world I live in, so many unforeseen challenges since January (when I purchased tickets, shoes, backpack...). So training has been sporadic and not intensive or even consistent. However, my faith community and priest have given me a Blessing for the Traveller, my workmates & friends all support me and my walking companion is trained to the max (go Kerry!) So we fly out tomorrow and start walking on Sept 1st. I see thunderstorms are predicted.... I'm still coming, God and St James!
 
In the ideal world, that is what I wd have done. But, here in the world I live in, so many unforeseen challenges since January (when I purchased tickets, shoes, backpack...). So training has been sporadic and not intensive or even consistent. However, my faith community and priest have given me a Blessing for the Traveller, my workmates & friends all support me and my walking companion is trained to the max (go Kerry!) So we fly out tomorrow and start walking on Sept 1st. I see thunderstorms are predicted.... I'm still coming, God and St James!

I wish you and your companion all the very best for your venture. I commence from St Jean PdP in exactly 4 weeks time from now.

It's undeniable that being in good physical shape is highly desirable at the outset of such an adventure that we're all about to embark upon. But as important as that is, I believe that being in the right frame of mind is even more important. If the mind says 'Yes' the body will follow. If the mind says 'No!' the body will follow and shut down also.
You seem to have bags of positive mental energy and a determination to take on board the challenge that you set yourself back in January. Be careful to eek out just a little of that mental energy each day and you'll have plenty more left to take on the next day and the one after that, etc etc. Hopefully as you progress the confidence that this will generate will top up your reserves of mental energy. It's a bit like charging our smartphones up when they run out of power.

Buen Camino

God Bless!
 
Truly wishing you well!! :) Just take it slowly and listen to your body. Take breaks!!! When I walk with my hubby aka Raymond the Reluctant Pilgrim, we take a break every hour to hour and a half. Five minutes. Shoes off. Water and perhaps a bite of something. I actually use the damn phone to time it so we don't get too comfy and stay too long. Funny thing is we find ourselves arriving the same time as all those who passed us sitting on the verge and said hello!! Been Camino. You've got this. Really you do!!
 
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