Research Opportunity May - June 2010

[dblitzer]

Hello,

My name is David Blitzer and I am a junior at the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Va. I am currently seeking individuals aged 60+ to take part in a study of the physiological effects of participation in the Camino along the Camino Frances. Our group would be performing the journey from mid-May to the end of June but pilgrims who will be participating on their own at other times would also be welcomed to participate. If anyone has any interest in participating or has any questions about the study, please feel free to email me at dblitzer@wm.edu.

 

[sillydoll]

Re: Research Opportunity

Hi David - its me again - not begging for a free camino this time, just wanting to make a few comments on the physiological effects of walking the camino.
Exercise + fresh air + endorphins + adrenaline + seretonin = eurphoria (happy pilgrim!!)

 

[cecelia]

Re: Research Opportunity

Hello David,
I won't be on the camino this year unfortunately but I'd like to to add to Sil's very succinct comments from my perspective.

The first time I went over the Route Napoleon at age 59 it seemed really hard. At some points I could only take a few steps at a time and had to stop to catch my breath. The next time, 3 years later, it was easier and the next, another year later, it was easier still. Now it doesn't seem like that hard of a walk to me. (Easy to say from the comfort of my computer chair!)

There is no part of my body that feels worse as a result of walking the camino. I'm one of the lucky ones though - so far I haven't had any blisters which must make it so much easier because I definitely don't do pain well.

I feel as if I give myself a few extra years of life every time I do the camino. I lose weight, I get stronger, I feel healthier, I feel happier. I can't wait to do it again.
Cecelia