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No. Lots of pilgrims walk with little preparation. However, you can expect lots of aches and pains, so be prepared to deal with them.Am I mistaken myself when I think I'll be able to do this?
What do you think?
Have heard good things about some of the NB models and I have walked three times with Salomon Ultra2 GTX. The beauty of the Salomons is that they hardly required more breaking into that catching your flight and getting to your starting point....new balance or waterproof trail shoes (salomon probably) but definitely not hiking boots, way too heavy for me. Specially if you say I don't need to worry for the mountain .
Thanks all, I feel much more confident and ready!
Might see you on the Way. I commence on September 16 from SJPP. Alan from Melbourne Australia.Glad to learn that I am not the only one without any training or much preparation to walk the Camino! My walk on the Camino Frances starts from SJPP on September 15th, (just decided to get up and walk). I have not even bought any equipment yet, but my flights are booked! Will be shopping for equipment next weekend.
I have just completed my 2nd Camino Frances, I started alone, but met a load of great people on the way. I basically turned up on the day put my boots on,and 30 days later I found myself walking into Santiago! I know it was not my first and I had a bit of pre knowledge, but I did it! I am a 61 year old who has Parkinsons and with help from fellow pilgrims, in silly things like taking my coffee to my table in cafes ( hard, if you're shaking with Parkinsons!! most of it ends up on the floor!!), so if I can do it so can you, I also did minimal training, except general fitness , just go with the flow and be prepared to be flexible and enjoy the ride! You will have a great Camino I know, it will restore your faith in Humanity and the people you meet will leave an indelible mark on you for the rest of your life! Buen Camino and remember, it's not a race, enjoy the moment!Good evening everyone
Firstly, sorry if my English looks a bit broken sometimes, it's not my native language and I'm still working on it!
I had the Camino frances in my mind for a while but things happened and I decided to do it in two or three years instead of doing next September as I wanted initially. But time has passed and it felt more and more like the Camino was calling for me. I don't know how to explain but I feel the need to do it now, not to postpone it. I wouldn't say it's a life question but not far from it actually!
But here's the thing. I took the decision and booked my plane back to France only a few weeks ago, and I started at the same time to work a lot of hours to save money (around 55-60 per week). So even if I wanted to, I didn't get any time to hike, to do exercises or to train myself in anyway. I didn't even get time to buy new shoes and I'll do it only one week before starting. My job is quite physical, so even if I wasn't very fit before, it has helped me a little. I'm working all day with my running shoes which suits perfectly my foot now so I'm going to take them as a second pair in my backpack as I think starting the camino with an almost new pair of shoes is probably the worst idea.
I still have one week to go with my work and then, back to France, and I'll start the camino on the 13th of September in SJPP. I don't have anything waiting for me after, I'm free, and I saved enough to be slow and take my time. I don't want to ask too much to my body, so I'll cut the first day in two and stop at Orrisson, but I'm a bit concerned by the difficulty of the next kilometers. Hiking through a mountain to begin with is a bit worrying for me.
I know I'm certainly doing everything in the wrong way with this "last minute" decision but I'm quite stubborn and I'm sure I can make it. I'm so excited and impatient to meet all the pilgrims, and in the same time, I'm looking forward walking alone when needed, just having to think about where eating, sleeping and all my personal questions.
What do you think? Am I mistaken myself when I think I'll be able to do this? Is it stupid, what strategy would you recommend?
I'd love to read some advices of wise pilgrims, and be comforted in my choice, then I'll could put down my discouraging little voice!
Many thanks in advance
Well said mate you have my RespectI have just completed my 2nd Camino Frances, I started alone, but met a load of great people on the way. I basically turned up on the day put my boots on,and 30 days later I found myself walking into Santiago! I know it was not my first and I had a bit of pre knowledge, but I did it! I am a 61 year old who has Parkinsons and with help from fellow pilgrims, in silly things like taking my coffee to my table in cafes ( hard, if you're shaking with Parkinsons!! most of it ends up on the floor!!), so if I can do it so can you, I also did minimal training, except general fitness , just go with the flow and be prepared to be flexible and enjoy the ride! You will have a great Camino I know, it will restore your faith in Humanity and the people you meet will leave an indelible mark on you for the rest of your life! Buen Camino and remember, it's not a race, enjoy the moment!
Let me suggest that you won't be okay, but with some careful management, you might make it. Even well prepared pilgrims have problems at the start as they adapt to walking long distances day after day. I expect you will end each day in pain - perhaps just for the first week, but possibly many more. Each night your leg muscles will ache, the soles of your feet will be so tender that you have to shuffle around the albergue because you cannot walk normally, and you will be taking some form of analgesia to reduce that pain. Each morning expect your joints to be stiff, and you won't be able to resist taking an anti-inflammatory to get them moving again.
Most people seem to average about 4 kph when walking the Camino Frances. If you were walking for 7 hours per day were your daily stages in the 25-30km range? If so then perhaps unrealistic expectations of the distances which you could cover each day were as much part of the problem as any lack of preparation. This is one of the reasons why I always prefer to be completely flexible and not commit myself in advance to a fixed itinerary. And incidentally why I dislike the approach in John Brierley's guidebooks of subdividing the route into pre-defined days which very inexperienced walkers may understandably assume are normal and manageable but which often prove too difficult for them to maintain day after day.The first time I had absolutely no preparation so I started in Roncesvalle. I too walk a lot a lot at work but even then, pounding my feet for about 7 hours a day on the camino gave me plantar fasciitis--it got so bad that even with strong pain medicine, I couldn't walk more than 4 hours a day--and it took months to get over. I also had blisters on 9 out 0f 10 toes--later remedied by using toe socks.
Your English is very good, no apology neccesary even if it wasn't. I'm not wise but I have valued others thoughts on things so will respond to your question. You don't mention your age but I'm 58 and on the parts where it was stony, and coming down off the Pyrenees , I valued my boots which gave ankle support, but I changed to trainers on the flat tracks and at the end of the day to rest my feet. Also used pacer poles which helped me along and gave extra balance when I needed it over some downhill bits. I like these poles but other types would do if you think you might benefit from walking poles. I might suggest you take the homeopathic remedies of arnica with you, it weighs very little. I took the pillules at the end of the day and massaged the cream into sore aching areas and I do believe it helps. Pack as light as possible, I carried too much ' Just in case'. listen to your body and do what feels right, trust your own instincts. take your boots off and air/ massage your feet when you take a Break, and as someone else said, investigate any foot discomfort and take steps to remedy it straight away. I think you'll do just fine, you sound determined, but give yourself permission to stop before your destination 'goal' for the day if you're tired , and there's somewhere good to stop, as pushing on might not be for the best and tomorrow you'll have more energy! I wish you well.Good evening everyone
Firstly, sorry if my English looks a bit broken sometimes, it's not my native language and I'm still working on it!
I had the Camino frances in my mind for a while but things happened and I decided to do it in two or three years instead of doing next September as I wanted initially. But time has passed and it felt more and more like the Camino was calling for me. I don't know how to explain but I feel the need to do it now, not to postpone it. I wouldn't say it's a life question but not far from it actually!
But here's the thing. I took the decision and booked my plane back to France only a few weeks ago, and I started at the same time to work a lot of hours to save money (around 55-60 per week). So even if I wanted to, I didn't get any time to hike, to do exercises or to train myself in anyway. I didn't even get time to buy new shoes and I'll do it only one week before starting. My job is quite physical, so even if I wasn't very fit before, it has helped me a little. I'm working all day with my running shoes which suits perfectly my foot now so I'm going to take them as a second pair in my backpack as I think starting the camino with an almost new pair of shoes is probably the worst idea.
I still have one week to go with my work and then, back to France, and I'll start the camino on the 13th of September in SJPP. I don't have anything waiting for me after, I'm free, and I saved enough to be slow and take my time. I don't want to ask too much to my body, so I'll cut the first day in two and stop at Orrisson, but I'm a bit concerned by the difficulty of the next kilometers. Hiking through a mountain to begin with is a bit worrying for me.
I know I'm certainly doing everything in the wrong way with this "last minute" decision but I'm quite stubborn and I'm sure I can make it. I'm so excited and impatient to meet all the pilgrims, and in the same time, I'm looking forward walking alone when needed, just having to think about where eating, sleeping and all my personal questions.
What do you think? Am I mistaken myself when I think I'll be able to do this? Is it stupid, what strategy would you recommend?
I'd love to read some advices of wise pilgrims, and be comforted in my choice, then I'll could put down my discouraging little voice!
Many thanks in advance
Some of the pilgrims I've met who seem to do the best had little prep. You can do it!... and if not there are elegant ways to stop doing it. Shoes and foot care! prepare that!Good evening everyone
Firstly, sorry if my English looks a bit broken sometimes, it's not my native language and I'm still working on it!
I had the Camino frances in my mind for a while but things happened and I decided to do it in two or three years instead of doing next September as I wanted initially. But time has passed and it felt more and more like the Camino was calling for me. I don't know how to explain but I feel the need to do it now, not to postpone it. I wouldn't say it's a life question but not far from it actually!
But here's the thing. I took the decision and booked my plane back to France only a few weeks ago, and I started at the same time to work a lot of hours to save money (around 55-60 per week). So even if I wanted to, I didn't get any time to hike, to do exercises or to train myself in anyway. I didn't even get time to buy new shoes and I'll do it only one week before starting. My job is quite physical, so even if I wasn't very fit before, it has helped me a little. I'm working all day with my running shoes which suits perfectly my foot now so I'm going to take them as a second pair in my backpack as I think starting the camino with an almost new pair of shoes is probably the worst idea.
I still have one week to go with my work and then, back to France, and I'll start the camino on the 13th of September in SJPP. I don't have anything waiting for me after, I'm free, and I saved enough to be slow and take my time. I don't want to ask too much to my body, so I'll cut the first day in two and stop at Orrisson, but I'm a bit concerned by the difficulty of the next kilometers. Hiking through a mountain to begin with is a bit worrying for me.
I know I'm certainly doing everything in the wrong way with this "last minute" decision but I'm quite stubborn and I'm sure I can make it. I'm so excited and impatient to meet all the pilgrims, and in the same time, I'm looking forward walking alone when needed, just having to think about where eating, sleeping and all my personal questions.
What do you think? Am I mistaken myself when I think I'll be able to do this? Is it stupid, what strategy would you recommend?
I'd love to read some advices of wise pilgrims, and be comforted in my choice, then I'll could put down my discouraging little voice!
Many thanks in advance
Very sensible suggestions @tabbyCat. Thank you.I JUST finished my first camino (Frances), averaged approximately 26 kilometers a day and did NO training what-so-ever before starting. I am 59 year old woman, approximately 25 pounds overweight, and carried my pack which weighed about 8 kilo's. While I don't recommend no training, I completely understand that sometimes its just not possible (in my case, I was working about 100 hours/week until I left). There are a few things that I would do differently and/or recommend.
1. I should have tried to lose weight before starting. The body has a hard time adjusting to carrying 8 kilos and it would have been better it I hadnt been carrying extra weight to begin with.
2. If at all possible, try to do some walking with your weighted backpack, just to get your body acclimated to the additional weight.
3. Have really good shoes. I wore lightweight hiking boots, which provided critical ankle support. If you purchase your footwear TODAY, you will still have almost 3 weeks to wear them, better if you can wear them all day.
4. As others have said, walk your pace, go only as far as your want to and listen to your body, which often means walking alone. The only times I was worried I was injured was when I walked too fast so that I could keep pace with some companions. This is very tempting to do, but can cause the dreaded tendonitis, that I saw so many others getting.
5. STRETCH before starting and after finishing EVERYDAY (or at least for the first two weeks). Practice some stretches for hips, IT band, calves, and ankles before leaving.
6. Allow yourself rest days and use buses, taxi and pack transport as necessary.
Other than that, let the Camino take care of you
Buen Camino
Losing 16kg @Mick McQueen that's terrific; hope I can lose that much - my wife will be very pleased. BTW: I like the backdrop to your profile photo; I take a similar snapshot everyday on my training walks around Sydney Harbour. CheersBrilliant advice from everyone 100% agree with all the suggestions and advice. Buy a pair of comfortable runners not hiking boots carry as little as possible and if you get sore forward your gear on till you recover, don't set a date for the end and if you do just boost it to catch up to your schedule, everyone does their own camino and does it differently. Stay and book into orisson and ronsavalle and take the right path at the other side of the Pyranees. Remember you can buy anything you need on the camino you need and only carry enough water till the next major town so you are not carrying dead weight.I did no training as I expected to get fit on the way and lost 16 kilos Buen Camino my friend take it easy and stop to smell the flowers . Check the pack lists if you are going to carry everything to about 7 kilos or put luxuries in a day pack and forward them on for 3-5 euros a day and really enjoy the spiritual journey
My most important advice is to get your shoes now and start wearing them. Starting the Camino with brand new shoes is a recipe for blisters. Blisters are the number one physical ailment on the Camino. As other have written, you are going to ache. Make sure to get some of the good ibuprofen gel (the kind with the higher percentage of ibuprofen). I didn't meet a single person who brought two pairs of shoes. Most had a pair of sandals or flip flops in addition to their walking shoes, but none had two pairs of walking shoes. Weight is the limiting factor.Good evening everyone
Firstly, sorry if my English looks a bit broken sometimes, it's not my native language and I'm still working on it!
I had the Camino frances in my mind for a while but things happened and I decided to do it in two or three years instead of doing next September as I wanted initially. But time has passed and it felt more and more like the Camino was calling for me. I don't know how to explain but I feel the need to do it now, not to postpone it. I wouldn't say it's a life question but not far from it actually!
But here's the thing. I took the decision and booked my plane back to France only a few weeks ago, and I started at the same time to work a lot of hours to save money (around 55-60 per week). So even if I wanted to, I didn't get any time to hike, to do exercises or to train myself in anyway. I didn't even get time to buy new shoes and I'll do it only one week before starting. My job is quite physical, so even if I wasn't very fit before, it has helped me a little. I'm working all day with my running shoes which suits perfectly my foot now so I'm going to take them as a second pair in my backpack as I think starting the camino with an almost new pair of shoes is probably the worst idea.
I still have one week to go with my work and then, back to France, and I'll start the camino on the 13th of September in SJPP. I don't have anything waiting for me after, I'm free, and I saved enough to be slow and take my time. I don't want to ask too much to my body, so I'll cut the first day in two and stop at Orrisson, but I'm a bit concerned by the difficulty of the next kilometers. Hiking through a mountain to begin with is a bit worrying for me.
I know I'm certainly doing everything in the wrong way with this "last minute" decision but I'm quite stubborn and I'm sure I can make it. I'm so excited and impatient to meet all the pilgrims, and in the same time, I'm looking forward walking alone when needed, just having to think about where eating, sleeping and all my personal questions.
What do you think? Am I mistaken myself when I think I'll be able to do this? Is it stupid, what strategy would you recommend?
I'd love to read some advices of wise pilgrims, and be comforted in my choice, then I'll could put down my discouraging little voice!
Many thanks in advance
Brilliant replyTraining? What training?
You want to take it easy. You don't want to walk 40 km a day. So don't worry.
You are fine. Except for the footwear. And have you booked Orisson? If you want to stay there you must book ahead. A long time.
Back to footwear. What are you planning on bringing? Why can't you wear your runners for the walk? You may be better off with them during the day and some Crocs type comfy shoe in the evening than with new and unknown new fancy wear.
Also, consider additional insoles, not jist the ones that come with the shoes.
As for hiking over a mountain on day one: don't worry. Yes you are going up, and down, but hardly hicking. It can be mostly tarmack. It certainly is going up, and going down, it depends on the route you prefer.
If you can work 60 hours a week in a fairly physical job and you can take it easy on the Camino you will be just fine.
Most important is they are 11/2 to 2 sizes bigger for each he feet who swellMy most important advice is to get your shoes now and start wearing them. Starting the Camino with brand new shoes is a recipe for blisters. Blisters are the number one physical ailment on the Camino. As other have written, you are going to ache. Make sure to get some of the good ibuprofen gel (the kind with the higher percentage of ibuprofen). I didn't meet a single person who brought two pairs of shoes. Most had a pair of sandals or flip flops in addition to their walking shoes, but none had two pairs of walking shoes. Weight is the limiting factor.
Make sure to start slow and listen to your body. Oh, I almost forgot. Make sure to bring a tube of Vaseline to rub on your feet in the morning and at rest breaks during the day.
Cheers have a great time mate can't think of anything I have done in the world that compares to the camino and the people are brilliantLosing 16kg @Mick McQueen that's terrific; hope I can lose that much - my wife will be very pleased. BTW: I like the backdrop to your profile photo; I take a similar snapshot everyday on my training walks around Sydney Harbour. Cheers
As I trudged along, I met lots of young, fit folks who were really struggling because they hadn't prepared, packed way too much and walked way too far and fast to start with. If you prepare even a little bit as mentioned above, pack very light and walk slower than you expected to and stop sooner, you'll likely be all right. Yes, you'll hurt at least a bit every day, but we all do. Stretch, massage, take care of yourself and live in the moment.
I suggest that you watch the Camino Documentary: Six Way to Santiago.
Please pay particular attention to the experience of Pilgrim Tomas who walks the Camino without preparation:
http://caminodocumentary.org/pilgrims/
"Tomás, 30-something, athletic and very charming, was torn between kite boarding on the coast or “hiking” the Camino. He chose the Camino because it was more of a physical challenge. He gets what he asks for, as his biggest challenge becomes the immense physical pain that he experiences. He must learn to persevere as the struggle to complete the Camino becomes more painful with every step."
-Paul
There are many other blister protection techniques that I would consider before using vaseline or any other lubricant, and there is ample discussion on the alternatives in the forum and on the web about this. You will find a survey here which indicates that dual sock systems are used by slightly more respondents than use lubricants. Perhaps more importantly is that most respondents would not change. So perhaps the message is find a method that works, and don't change it unnecessarily.Oh, I almost forgot. Make sure to bring a tube of Vaseline to rub on your feet in the morning and at rest breaks during the day.
It is a last resort to just buy a size larger, and I suggest used only if you cannot get to a good outdoors store with the staff and equipment needed to properly fit your footwear. What would be better would be to get your footwear properly fitted by experienced outdoors staff, wearing the socks you will wear on the Camino and doing it late in the day. When you do this, choose the larger size if there is a balance between two sizes. At that point, don't be surprised if the footwear is a size or more larger than your current street footwear. You will find some of my previous contributions on this here, noting that some references are to my local retailers that were made some years ago. The general advice is still sound even if those specifics will not be relevant to you.Most important is they are 11/2 to 2 sizes bigger for each he feet who swell
@Riza, the matters raised by @tomnorth and @Mick McQueen are widely discussed in this forum, and it is well worth doing more research into both of them before you adopt their particular advice on these matters.
There are many other blister protection techniques that I would consider before using vaseline or any other lubricant, and there is ample discussion on the alternatives in the forum and on the web about this. You will find a survey here which indicates that dual sock systems are used by slightly more respondents than use lubricants. Perhaps more importantly is that most respondents would not change. So perhaps the message is find a method that works, and don't change it unnecessarily.
It is a last resort to just buy a size larger, and I suggest used only if you cannot get to a good outdoors store with the staff and equipment needed to properly fit your footwear. What would be better would be to get your footwear properly fitted by experienced outdoors staff, wearing the socks you will wear on the Camino and doing it late in the day. When you do this, choose the larger size if there is a balance between two sizes. At that point, don't be surprised if the footwear is a size or more larger than your current street footwear. You will find some of my previous contributions on this here, noting that some references are to my local retailers that were made some years ago. The general advice is still sound even if those specifics will not be relevant to you.
I've heard that advice, but when you wear 13EEE (46 wide) shoes, it's tough to find anything that's 1-1/2 to 2 sizes larger. I actually didn't have trouble with my shoes not fitting due to swelling.Most important is they are 11/2 to 2 sizes bigger for each he feet who swell
Are you the guy with Parkinson's interviewed by Dan Mullens in the My Camino Podcast?I have just completed my 2nd Camino Frances, I started alone, but met a load of great people on the way. I basically turned up on the day put my boots on,and 30 days later I found myself walking into Santiago! I know it was not my first and I had a bit of pre knowledge, but I did it! I am a 61 year old who has Parkinsons and with help from fellow pilgrims, in silly things like taking my coffee to my table in cafes ( hard, if you're shaking with Parkinsons!! most of it ends up on the floor!!), so if I can do it so can you, I also did minimal training, except general fitness , just go with the flow and be prepared to be flexible and enjoy the ride! You will have a great Camino I know, it will restore your faith in Humanity and the people you meet will leave an indelible mark on you for the rest of your life! Buen Camino and remember, it's not a race, enjoy the moment!
As others have said, walk your pace, go only as far as your want to and listen to your body, which often means walking alone. The only times I was worried I was injured was when I walked too fast so that I could keep pace with some companions. This is very tempting to do, but can cause the dreaded tendonitis, that I saw so many others getting.
You will be fine but, just remember, no matter how fit your are or, how fit you think you are, the first four or five days are very tiring and you WILL get aches and pains - just be prepared to take each day as it comes....don't try to race along....pace yourself and rest when you need to. Wishing you all the very best an will look forward to reading news of your journey....Buen Camino...Good evening everyone
Firstly, sorry if my English looks a bit broken sometimes, it's not my native language and I'm still working on it!
I had the Camino frances in my mind for a while but things happened and I decided to do it in two or three years instead of doing next September as I wanted initially. But time has passed and it felt more and more like the Camino was calling for me. I don't know how to explain but I feel the need to do it now, not to postpone it. I wouldn't say it's a life question but not far from it actually!
But here's the thing. I took the decision and booked my plane back to France only a few weeks ago, and I started at the same time to work a lot of hours to save money (around 55-60 per week). So even if I wanted to, I didn't get any time to hike, to do exercises or to train myself in anyway. I didn't even get time to buy new shoes and I'll do it only one week before starting. My job is quite physical, so even if I wasn't very fit before, it has helped me a little. I'm working all day with my running shoes which suits perfectly my foot now so I'm going to take them as a second pair in my backpack as I think starting the camino with an almost new pair of shoes is probably the worst idea.
I still have one week to go with my work and then, back to France, and I'll start the camino on the 13th of September in SJPP. I don't have anything waiting for me after, I'm free, and I saved enough to be slow and take my time. I don't want to ask too much to my body, so I'll cut the first day in two and stop at Orrisson, but I'm a bit concerned by the difficulty of the next kilometers. Hiking through a mountain to begin with is a bit worrying for me.
I know I'm certainly doing everything in the wrong way with this "last minute" decision but I'm quite stubborn and I'm sure I can make it. I'm so excited and impatient to meet all the pilgrims, and in the same time, I'm looking forward walking alone when needed, just having to think about where eating, sleeping and all my personal questions.
What do you think? Am I mistaken myself when I think I'll be able to do this? Is it stupid, what strategy would you recommend?
I'd love to read some advices of wise pilgrims, and be comforted in my choice, then I'll could put down my discouraging little voice!
Many thanks in advance
I don't think so Alan, I'm not very good with computers, so podcasts and such like tend to go over my head!Are you the guy with Parkinson's interviewed by Dan Mullens in the My Camino Podcast?
Good evening everyone
Firstly, sorry if my English looks a bit broken sometimes, it's not my native language and I'm still working on it!
I had the Camino frances in my mind for a while but things happened and I decided to do it in two or three years instead of doing next September as I wanted initially. But time has passed and it felt more and more like the Camino was calling for me. I don't know how to explain but I feel the need to do it now, not to postpone it. I wouldn't say it's a life question but not far from it actually!
But here's the thing. I took the decision and booked my plane back to France only a few weeks ago, and I started at the same time to work a lot of hours to save money (around 55-60 per week). So even if I wanted to, I didn't get any time to hike, to do exercises or to train myself in anyway. I didn't even get time to buy new shoes and I'll do it only one week before starting. My job is quite physical, so even if I wasn't very fit before, it has helped me a little. I'm working all day with my running shoes which suits perfectly my foot now so I'm going to take them as a second pair in my backpack as I think starting the camino with an almost new pair of shoes is probably the worst idea.
I still have one week to go with my work and then, back to France, and I'll start the camino on the 13th of September in SJPP. I don't have anything waiting for me after, I'm free, and I saved enough to be slow and take my time. I don't want to ask too much to my body, so I'll cut the first day in two and stop at Orrisson, but I'm a bit concerned by the difficulty of the next kilometers. Hiking through a mountain to begin with is a bit worrying for me.
I know I'm certainly doing everything in the wrong way with this "last minute" decision but I'm quite stubborn and I'm sure I can make it. I'm so excited and impatient to meet all the pilgrims, and in the same time, I'm looking forward walking alone when needed, just having to think about where eating, sleeping and all my personal questions.
What do you think? Am I mistaken myself when I think I'll be able to do this? Is it stupid, what strategy would you recommend?
I'd love to read some advices of wise pilgrims, and be comforted in my choice, then I'll could put down my discouraging little voice!
Many thanks in advance
Good evening everyone
But here's the thing. I took the decision and booked my plane back to France only a few weeks ago, and I started at the same time to work a lot of hours to save money (around 55-60 per week). So even if I wanted to, I didn't get any time to hike, to do exercises or to train myself in anyway.
I'm a bit concerned by the difficulty of the next kilometers. Hiking through a mountain to begin with is a bit worrying for me.
Don't worry! I started in Burgos in May and arrived in Santiago in mid June.Many thanks to all of you, I feel way better reading that
But a bit longer . . .I would recommend zig-zag your way on slopes. Admittedly, this doesn't seem natural to us citydwellers. By walking diagonally across, instead of straight up or down, one could reduce the gradient by up to one-third! So, for example, a 45-deg slope would appear to be just 30 deg by zig-zagging. Just common sense, no?
Needless to say... Still, a small price to pay, in my opinion, in the context of an 800-km trek.But a bit longer . . .
Alan Adair - Absolutely, we'll catch up somewhere along the Camino! Safe travels.Might see you on the Way. I commence on September 16 from SJPP. Alan from Melbourne Australia.
Did you get Leukotape on the camino or did you just take it from home?Here's what I did on my two previous caminos:
1) I 'trained' on the spot, meaning, I started slow and gradually worked my way up. So, for example, I'll do 10 km on day 1 or 2, 15 km on day 3 or 4, and so on. You will soon reach your own pace that way. Remember, if you are out of breath, slow down!
2) Tape the hot spots on your feet before each walk to prevent blisters. (I use leukotape P.)
Don't get too stressed out. You'll do all right.
Great to just hear that Charlie as I am starting on 15 Sept in exactly the same position,,, so if you see an awkward looking Walker there that's me.Glad to learn that I am not the only one without any training or much preparation to walk the Camino! My walk on the Camino Frances starts from SJPP on September 15th, (just decided to get up and walk). I have not even bought any equipment yet, but my flights are booked! Will be shopping for equipment next weekend.
Greetings,Hello all !
Sorry for the very late reply, I've been caught with leaving my new country and "moving back " to mine, and ... I fell ill. Like each time I come back. I'm going to read carefully all the replies I missed, thanks again for taking the time to share your experience or wise advices with me !!
I've managed to find good shoes(Merrell) and to walk enough with them ( they're super comfy), and to find everything I needed for my camino. I'll go and start when I'll feel better (went through the flu, feel quite weak at the moment), so I guess I'll have to buy something warm on the way as October might be colder than my original trip planned in September.
But I have a big concern, it's my backpack. It's the backpack I use to travel, so it's a 50L. It's a Deuter Aircontact so the armature is really solid and robust. It's quite comfy on the back though, but I've experienced it only in cities( usually 12kgs on my back, plus 1.5/2 on a small one in front of me), when I move from place to place or run to the airport. I've never tried to carry it for a whole day.
I was about to take this one, because I don't have the money to buy another one smaller, but this one is about 2.5 kgs empty (because of the armature). And with my sleeping bag, I have already 4 kgs on my back. When I fill it with all my stuff (which is not so much, only the basics), I reach 9kgs. I can't go under, I took off all I could already. My weight is almost 60kgs, so I break the 10% rule. I don't want to stick on it because I guess most people travel during summer, and autumn time requieres a little bit more gears. But I have this fear, reading all the topics, to hurt myself since the beginning and be unable to finish my way.
What should I do ?
(I'm 31, reasonably fit and stubborn !)
Good evening everyone
Firstly, sorry if my English looks a bit broken sometimes, it's not my native language and I'm still working on it!
I had the Camino frances in my mind for a while but things happened and I decided to do it in two or three years instead of doing next September as I wanted initially. But time has passed and it felt more and more like the Camino was calling for me. I don't know how to explain but I feel the need to do it now, not to postpone it. I wouldn't say it's a life question but not far from it actually!
But here's the thing. I took the decision and booked my plane back to France only a few weeks ago, and I started at the same time to work a lot of hours to save money (around 55-60 per week). So even if I wanted to, I didn't get any time to hike, to do exercises or to train myself in anyway. I didn't even get time to buy new shoes and I'll do it only one week before starting. My job is quite physical, so even if I wasn't very fit before, it has helped me a little. I'm working all day with my running shoes which suits perfectly my foot now so I'm going to take them as a second pair in my backpack as I think starting the camino with an almost new pair of shoes is probably the worst idea.
I still have one week to go with my work and then, back to France, and I'll start the camino on the 13th of September in SJPP. I don't have anything waiting for me after, I'm free, and I saved enough to be slow and take my time. I don't want to ask too much to my body, so I'll cut the first day in two and stop at Orrisson, but I'm a bit concerned by the difficulty of the next kilometers. Hiking through a mountain to begin with is a bit worrying for me.
I know I'm certainly doing everything in the wrong way with this "last minute" decision but I'm quite stubborn and I'm sure I can make it. I'm so excited and impatient to meet all the pilgrims, and in the same time, I'm looking forward walking alone when needed, just having to think about where eating, sleeping and all my personal questions.
What do you think? Am I mistaken myself when I think I'll be able to do this? Is it stupid, what strategy would you recommend?
I'd love to read some advices of wise pilgrims, and be comforted in my choice, then I'll could put down my discouraging little voice!
Many thanks in advance
No training required you will get fit on the walk, it’s only walking and only average of 20 odd clicks a day, I didn’t do any training and breezed it and I’m 61. Any task of a physical nature is 30% physical and 70% mental. You sound lovely me you will have a great time and stopping at Irisson proves to me you are already well ahead on the planning ideals. Buen Camino go walk and enjoy, it’s easyGood evening everyone
Firstly, sorry if my English looks a bit broken sometimes, it's not my native language and I'm still working on it!
I had the Camino frances in my mind for a while but things happened and I decided to do it in two or three years instead of doing next September as I wanted initially. But time has passed and it felt more and more like the Camino was calling for me. I don't know how to explain but I feel the need to do it now, not to postpone it. I wouldn't say it's a life question but not far from it actually!
But here's the thing. I took the decision and booked my plane back to France only a few weeks ago, and I started at the same time to work a lot of hours to save money (around 55-60 per week). So even if I wanted to, I didn't get any time to hike, to do exercises or to train myself in anyway. I didn't even get time to buy new shoes and I'll do it only one week before starting. My job is quite physical, so even if I wasn't very fit before, it has helped me a little. I'm working all day with my running shoes which suits perfectly my foot now so I'm going to take them as a second pair in my backpack as I think starting the camino with an almost new pair of shoes is probably the worst idea.
I still have one week to go with my work and then, back to France, and I'll start the camino on the 13th of September in SJPP. I don't have anything waiting for me after, I'm free, and I saved enough to be slow and take my time. I don't want to ask too much to my body, so I'll cut the first day in two and stop at Orrisson, but I'm a bit concerned by the difficulty of the next kilometers. Hiking through a mountain to begin with is a bit worrying for me.
I know I'm certainly doing everything in the wrong way with this "last minute" decision but I'm quite stubborn and I'm sure I can make it. I'm so excited and impatient to meet all the pilgrims, and in the same time, I'm looking forward walking alone when needed, just having to think about where eating, sleeping and all my personal questions.
What do you think? Am I mistaken myself when I think I'll be able to do this? Is it stupid, what strategy would you recommend?
I'd love to read some advices of wise pilgrims, and be comforted in my choice, then I'll could put down my discouraging little voice!
Many thanks in advance
Hey! did you do the Camino???Good evening everyone
Firstly, sorry if my English looks a bit broken sometimes, it's not my native language and I'm still working on it!
I had the Camino frances in my mind for a while but things happened and I decided to do it in two or three years instead of doing next September as I wanted initially. But time has passed and it felt more and more like the Camino was calling for me. I don't know how to explain but I feel the need to do it now, not to postpone it. I wouldn't say it's a life question but not far from it actually!
But here's the thing. I took the decision and booked my plane back to France only a few weeks ago, and I started at the same time to work a lot of hours to save money (around 55-60 per week). So even if I wanted to, I didn't get any time to hike, to do exercises or to train myself in anyway. I didn't even get time to buy new shoes and I'll do it only one week before starting. My job is quite physical, so even if I wasn't very fit before, it has helped me a little. I'm working all day with my running shoes which suits perfectly my foot now so I'm going to take them as a second pair in my backpack as I think starting the camino with an almost new pair of shoes is probably the worst idea.
I still have one week to go with my work and then, back to France, and I'll start the camino on the 13th of September in SJPP. I don't have anything waiting for me after, I'm free, and I saved enough to be slow and take my time. I don't want to ask too much to my body, so I'll cut the first day in two and stop at Orrisson, but I'm a bit concerned by the difficulty of the next kilometers. Hiking through a mountain to begin with is a bit worrying for me.
I know I'm certainly doing everything in the wrong way with this "last minute" decision but I'm quite stubborn and I'm sure I can make it. I'm so excited and impatient to meet all the pilgrims, and in the same time, I'm looking forward walking alone when needed, just having to think about where eating, sleeping and all my personal questions.
What do you think? Am I mistaken myself when I think I'll be able to do this? Is it stupid, what strategy would you recommend?
I'd love to read some advices of wise pilgrims, and be comforted in my choice, then I'll could put down my discouraging little voice!
Many thanks in advance
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