- Time of past OR future Camino
- 2017 CF
For 2024 Pilgrims: €50,- donation = 1 year with no ads on the forum + 90% off any 2024 Guide. More here. (Discount code sent to you by Private Message after your donation) |
---|
This feels like the right year for me to walk the Camino-- much change in my life, and many "What's it all about?" questions to chew on. But I'm feeling fear, because I'm not in the best shape of my life.
If it's possible to "train as I go," I'd really like to get on the road in May-- before "peak heat," and before I postpone this again. Is this realistic?
This isn't an easy thing to write about. I'm carrying a lot of shame along with the pounds. But there's so much wisdom and support in this Forum, I'm hopeful people here may have some answers.
- I'm carrying a lot of extra weight, the kind I can't leave at home, or send ahead.
- Apart from that, I'm in good health. Blessed with strong legs, rarely hurting.
- Background of physical activity-- walking, hiking, cycling (including 5-6 centuries)
- Uphills have always been difficult, but I usually make it to the top. (Just not fast or pretty)
- I have plenty of time. Could walk 10km a day if I needed to.
Thank much
This isn't an easy thing to write about. I'm carrying a lot of shame along with the pounds. But there's so much wisdom and support in this Forum, I'm hopeful people here may have some answers.
Thank much
- I have plenty of time. Could walk 10km a day if I needed to.
Welcome Joe. It sounds to me like you are prepared mentally. As far as the physical part listen to your body and go at your own pace and distance. Carry a reasonable amount of weight, have decent shoes and in two to three weeks you will probably feel like you could go forever.
Buen Camino!
I made a decision to answer your post before reading anything written by anyone else. I wanted to give you my unvarnished thoughts. And those are...DO IT! I'm a big guy, and at times in my life have carried more pounds than I care to admit. Normally I would advise people to train first, but if you're strong and in the mindset to walk, then I would argue to go now. My hope for you is that you're able to leave that shame behind you somewhere on The Way.This feels like the right year for me to walk the Camino-- much change in my life, and many "What's it all about?" questions to chew on. But I'm feeling fear, because I'm not in the best shape of my life.
If it's possible to "train as I go," I'd really like to get on the road in May-- before "peak heat," and before I postpone this again. Is this realistic?
This isn't an easy thing to write about. I'm carrying a lot of shame along with the pounds. But there's so much wisdom and support in this Forum, I'm hopeful people here may have some answers.
- I'm carrying a lot of extra weight, the kind I can't leave at home, or send ahead.
- Apart from that, I'm in good health. Blessed with strong legs, rarely hurting.
- Background of physical activity-- walking, hiking, cycling (including 5-6 centuries)
- Uphills have always been difficult, but I usually make it to the top. (Just not fast or pretty)
- I have plenty of time. Could walk 10km a day if I needed to.
Thank much
This feels like the right year for me to walk the Camino-- much change in my life, and many "What's it all about?" questions to chew on. But I'm feeling fear, because I'm not in the best shape of my life.
If it's possible to "train as I go," I'd really like to get on the road in May-- before "peak heat," and before I postpone this again. Is this realistic?
This isn't an easy thing to write about. I'm carrying a lot of shame along with the pounds. But there's so much wisdom and support in this Forum, I'm hopeful people here may have some answers.
- I'm carrying a lot of extra weight, the kind I can't leave at home, or send ahead.
- Apart from that, I'm in good health. Blessed with strong legs, rarely hurting.
- Background of physical activity-- walking, hiking, cycling (including 5-6 centuries)
- Uphills have always been difficult, but I usually make it to the top. (Just not fast or pretty)
- I have plenty of time. Could walk 10km a day if I needed to.
Thank much
A lot of pilgrims walk the whole way in short days. They do it in 60 days instead of 30 or so. Who cares?
"Overrated"? I don't know, I thought it kicked ass. I always enjoyed it.It's unwise to tackle any camino..especially the Frances without some training. My reason is brief...The first day is UP about 25kms over the Pyrenees. A far better option than the over rated over crowded Frances is the VDLP...dead flat for the first day and many subsequent days
I'm with Joe & Omar on this one. If you start in SJPDP and on your first go straight to Roncesvalles, you could be in for a rude awakening. Definitely stop at Orisson (make sure you have a reservation). I went straight to Roncesvalles on my first day and it was hard both physically and mentally.
Hydrate well.
I agree. Even though I consumed 5 or 6 beers during the day and a bottle of wine in the evening, I still lost weight.
The VDLP is lovely but the distances are longer with nowhere to stop in-between. Calvary on Day 3 is tough no matter how fit you are especially when you have just walked almost 30 km carrying all food and water.It's unwise to tackle any camino..especially the Frances without some training. My reason is brief...The first day is UP about 25kms over the Pyrenees. A far better option than the over rated over crowded Frances is the VDLP...dead flat for the first day and many subsequent days
I trust many people, including myself, actually envy your position. You have the will and the time, and I believe that everything else will just follow. So many pilgrims in years gone by could not avail themselves of advanced medical care and were compelled to walk The Way. I will of course stop short of saying that you should go irrespective of any health condition, but I think the most important factors are on your side. Hope to see another post from you saying you're going for it soon!This feels like the right year for me to walk the Camino-- much change in my life, and many "What's it all about?" questions to chew on. But I'm feeling fear, because I'm not in the best shape of my life.
If it's possible to "train as I go," I'd really like to get on the road in May-- before "peak heat," and before I postpone this again. Is this realistic?
This isn't an easy thing to write about. I'm carrying a lot of shame along with the pounds. But there's so much wisdom and support in this Forum, I'm hopeful people here may have some answers.
- I'm carrying a lot of extra weight, the kind I can't leave at home, or send ahead.
- Apart from that, I'm in good health. Blessed with strong legs, rarely hurting.
- Background of physical activity-- walking, hiking, cycling (including 5-6 centuries)
- Uphills have always been difficult, but I usually make it to the top. (Just not fast or pretty)
- I have plenty of time. Could walk 10km a day if I needed to.
Thank much
Thank you everyone. I'm doing it! Might begin in SJPDP, or maybe a few days further out, so I hit Pyrenees with a walking start. Will take the Valcarlos route, and will absolutely bring walking poles.
I'm deeply touched by the responses here-- not just the advice, but the kindness too. If that's a snapshot of the Camino, then I understand better the draw it has.
It's unwise to tackle any camino..especially the Frances without some training. My reason is brief...The first day is UP about 25kms over the Pyrenees. A far better option than the over rated over crowded Frances is the VDLP...dead flat for the first day and many subsequent days
I walked the Camino the first time with no training and at 52 years of age.
First and foremost...carry the lightest load possible. Also wear the right shoes for you, and appropriate clothing.
Take your time going into it, and pace yourself. Take breaks. Stay hydrated. Get rest at night and allow yourself to recover. The trekking poles do help quite a bit. You get a rhythm with them pretty quick. They take a lot of stress off the knees.
Allow your body time to work itself into shape. If you gotta take some short walking days, no biggie. It's kinda nice leaving a bit later, getting a coffee and only walking about 10km. You get to the albergue early before anyone else, and can just chill out for a bit. A lot of pilgrims walk the whole way in short days. They do it in 60 days instead of 30 or so. Who cares? I certainly could care less how long someone took to walk the Camino.
ultreia
My first Camino in 2015 I was 212 in SJPP and 156 in Santiago. Perhaps it was the altitude.Thank you everyone. I'm doing it! Might begin in SJPDP, or maybe a few days further out, so I hit Pyrenees with a walking start. Will take the Valcarlos route, and will absolutely bring walking poles.
I'm deeply touched by the responses here-- not just the advice, but the kindness too. If that's a snapshot of the Camino, then I understand better the draw it has.
I wouldn't but I am not you. For myself I wanted to finish the walk and so to boost my confidence I trained.This feels like the right year for me to walk the Camino-- much change in my life, and many "What's it all about?" questions to chew on. But I'm feeling fear, because I'm not in the best shape of my life.
If it's possible to "train as I go," I'd really like to get on the road in May-- before "peak heat," and before I postpone this again. Is this realistic?
This isn't an easy thing to write about. I'm carrying a lot of shame along with the pounds. But there's so much wisdom and support in this Forum, I'm hopeful people here may have some answers.
- I'm carrying a lot of extra weight, the kind I can't leave at home, or send ahead.
- Apart from that, I'm in good health. Blessed with strong legs, rarely hurting.
- Background of physical activity-- walking, hiking, cycling (including 5-6 centuries)
- Uphills have always been difficult, but I usually make it to the top. (Just not fast or pretty)
- I have plenty of time. Could walk 10km a day if I needed to.
Thank much
They really do have some good wine and beer there in Spain.I agree. Even though I consumed 5 or 6 beers during the day and a bottle of wine in the evening, I still lost weight.
Hi Joecamino,This feels like the right year for me to walk the Camino-- much change in my life, and many "What's it all about?" questions to chew on. But I'm feeling fear, because I'm not in the best shape of my life.
If it's possible to "train as I go," I'd really like to get on the road in May-- before "peak heat," and before I postpone this again. Is this realistic?
This isn't an easy thing to write about. I'm carrying a lot of shame along with the pounds. But there's so much wisdom and support in this Forum, I'm hopeful people here may have some answers.
- I'm carrying a lot of extra weight, the kind I can't leave at home, or send ahead.
- Apart from that, I'm in good health. Blessed with strong legs, rarely hurting.
- Background of physical activity-- walking, hiking, cycling (including 5-6 centuries)
- Uphills have always been difficult, but I usually make it to the top. (Just not fast or pretty)
- I have plenty of time. Could walk 10km a day if I needed to.
Thank much
https://www.caminodesantiago.me/com...y-1-from-sjdp-a-bit-scared.46956/#post-501347This feels like the right year for me to walk the Camino-- much change in my life, and many "What's it all about?" questions to chew on. But I'm feeling fear, because I'm not in the best shape of my life.
If it's possible to "train as I go," I'd really like to get on the road in May-- before "peak heat," and before I postpone this again. Is this realistic?
This isn't an easy thing to write about. I'm carrying a lot of shame along with the pounds. But there's so much wisdom and support in this Forum, I'm hopeful people here may have some answers.
- I'm carrying a lot of extra weight, the kind I can't leave at home, or send ahead.
- Apart from that, I'm in good health. Blessed with strong legs, rarely hurting.
- Background of physical activity-- walking, hiking, cycling (including 5-6 centuries)
- Uphills have always been difficult, but I usually make it to the top. (Just not fast or pretty)
- I have plenty of time. Could walk 10km a day if I needed to.
Thank much
Train for hills now by using the stairs as often as possible.This feels like the right year for me to walk the Camino-- much change in my life, and many "What's it all about?" questions to chew on. But I'm feeling fear, because I'm not in the best shape of my life.
If it's possible to "train as I go," I'd really like to get on the road in May-- before "peak heat," and before I postpone this again. Is this realistic?
This isn't an easy thing to write about. I'm carrying a lot of shame along with the pounds. But there's so much wisdom and support in this Forum, I'm hopeful people here may have some answers.
- I'm carrying a lot of extra weight, the kind I can't leave at home, or send ahead.
- Apart from that, I'm in good health. Blessed with strong legs, rarely hurting.
- Background of physical activity-- walking, hiking, cycling (including 5-6 centuries)
- Uphills have always been difficult, but I usually make it to the top. (Just not fast or pretty)
- I have plenty of time. Could walk 10km a day if I needed to.
Thank much
This feels like the right year for me to walk the Camino-- much change in my life, and many "What's it all about?" questions to chew on. But I'm feeling fear, because I'm not in the best shape of my life.
If it's possible to "train as I go," I'd really like to get on the road in May-- before "peak heat," and before I postpone this again. Is this realistic?
This isn't an easy thing to write about. I'm carrying a lot of shame along with the pounds. But there's so much wisdom and support in this Forum, I'm hopeful people here may have some answers.
- I'm carrying a lot of extra weight, the kind I can't leave at home, or send ahead.
- Apart from that, I'm in good health. Blessed with strong legs, rarely hurting.
- Background of physical activity-- walking, hiking, cycling (including 5-6 centuries)
- Uphills have always been difficult, but I usually make it to the top. (Just not fast or pretty)
- I have plenty of time. Could walk 10km a day if I needed to.
Thank much
If it's possible to "train as I go," I'd really like to get on the road in May-- before "peak heat," and before I postpone this again.
I agree. Even though I consumed 5 or 6 beers during the day and a bottle of wine in the evening, I still lost weight.
What doing some training before starting your Camino will do, is to provide a level of confidence that you will be just fine. and will help alleviate the anxiousness and nervousness to a great extent, allowing you to more calmly focus on what you need, spiritually and mentally, from undertaking this walk. You have some time beforehand to do a bit of conditioning, so why not take advantage of it.This feels like the right year for me to walk the Camino-- much change in my life, and many "What's it all about?" questions to chew on. But I'm feeling fear, because I'm not in the best shape of my life.
If it's possible to "train as I go," I'd really like to get on the road in May-- before "peak heat," and before I postpone this again. Is this realistic?
This isn't an easy thing to write about. I'm carrying a lot of shame along with the pounds. But there's so much wisdom and support in this Forum, I'm hopeful people here may have some answers.
- I'm carrying a lot of extra weight, the kind I can't leave at home, or send ahead.
- Apart from that, I'm in good health. Blessed with strong legs, rarely hurting.
- Background of physical activity-- walking, hiking, cycling (including 5-6 centuries)
- Uphills have always been difficult, but I usually make it to the top. (Just not fast or pretty)
- I have plenty of time. Could walk 10km a day if I needed to.
Thank much
I have had a couple of people (NOT on the forum!) say that I didn't do a "real pilgrimage". Well, yes I did! It was a rich experience at all levels, including spiritually, and loved ones say they can still notice the difference in me nearly a year later.
You have to do it.
The training, the weight, the distances each day etc. are all practical stuff that can make it easier. But you need to get out there and get some space with your thoughts and your life to reflect and come to terms with yourself. The daily routine is a vehicle to allow that to happen. You will find healing and redemption and forgiveness along the road. You will find people to walk alongside, or maybe they will find you, and they will be there to really listen when you are able to share deeply. You'll probably cry a lot at times, the open road is good for that when people can't see you. I think we all go though emotional days out there.
As we say in Ireland: You'll be grand.
Can't like thus enough, we waste so much time saying I will do this or that when I have done this.....well may sound like sound advice BUT ... 2016 I had no training ... decided to rock up and see what happened .... took it slow .. packed light .... outcome... awesome ... don't be put off ... otherwise one can miss out in life ... Rock Up ... be sensible ... go slow ...learn ....
Hey! I wanna walk THAT Camino!I agree. Even though I consumed 5 or 6 beers during the day and a bottle of wine in the evening, I still lost weight.
- Background of physical activity-- walking, hiking, cycling (including 5-6 centuries)
This feels like the right year for me to walk the Camino-- much change in my life, and many "What's it all about?" questions to chew on. But I'm feeling fear, because I'm not in the best shape of my life.
I second the "EXACTLY!" comment from Glenn Rowe. On my first Camino a year ago, I was constantly reminded of the quote from Sir Edmund Hillary, "you do not conquer the mountain, you conquer yourself." Being prepared mentally is key. As others have said, (1) get good shoes or boots, break them in, (2) get hiking poles and learn how to use them...the hiking poles really help reduce stress on the knees and hips, (3) this is your Camino, take your own pace. It will be magical, and insightful. I'm sorry I will not see you on the way; my next Camino is planned for Sep 12.Welcome Joe. It sounds to me like you are prepared mentally. As far as the physical part listen to your body and go at your own pace and distance. Carry a reasonable amount of weight, have decent shoes and in two to three weeks you will probably feel like you could go forever.
Buen Camino!
Hi Mate,This feels like the right year for me to walk the Camino-- much change in my life, and many "What's it all about?" questions to chew on. But I'm feeling fear, because I'm not in the best shape of my life.
If it's possible to "train as I go," I'd really like to get on the road in May-- before "peak heat," and before I postpone this again. Is this realistic?
This isn't an easy thing to write about. I'm carrying a lot of shame along with the pounds. But there's so much wisdom and support in this Forum, I'm hopeful people here may have some answers.
- I'm carrying a lot of extra weight, the kind I can't leave at home, or send ahead.
- Apart from that, I'm in good health. Blessed with strong legs, rarely hurting.
- Background of physical activity-- walking, hiking, cycling (including 5-6 centuries)
- Uphills have always been difficult, but I usually make it to the top. (Just not fast or pretty)
- I have plenty of time. Could walk 10km a day if I needed to.
Thank much
Not really sure why I am tagged here. I say train (because I have had two knee surgeries)!Joe and Julie/Peter...a contrary thought here. Everyone has to make their own decision as to their physical condition to walk the Camino. However, do not discount the damage you may do to your knees. I have not walked the Camino yet, being penciled in for May 2018. However, I am probably more experienced with knee replacement surgeries than others here, having had 4 of them. No, I do not have 4 knees. Even though my wife thinks I am bull-headed, I do not have their multiple knees. I was the unfortunate recipient of a defective first knee, which has followed me down through the other replacements. Trust me, it is not something you want to have done if at all possible. Therefore, listen to your knees...if they say its time to take a break or even that it is time to stop for a season, pay heed. Using sticks, having your pack transported for you, taking a bus or taxi are all helpful aids to working your way down the trail and I will consider them as 2018 approaches but I am also attuned to the potential of knee damage, as I do not want number 5!
Think slow but steady and buen Camino.
Your thought that the kindness of the people on the Camino Forum is touching and that this might be a snapshot of the Camino is right, but it is far deeper.Thank you everyone. I'm doing it! Might begin in SJPDP, or maybe a few days further out, so I hit Pyrenees with a walking start. Will take the Valcarlos route, and will absolutely bring walking poles.
I'm deeply touched by the responses here-- not just the advice, but the kindness too. If that's a snapshot of the Camino, then I understand better the draw it has.
This is great advice.Joe:
This is an outstanding dialog. I hope you read and take to heart all of it. Many folks have provided just about all the useful advice and information you need.
The final decision is up to YOU. I will try to NOT repeat what was said (correctly I might add) above. Here are some points and observations to consider.
On the Camino, we have several "rules." We call them "the Camino Rules."
Rule #1 - "Everyone walks his or her own Camino...mine is not to judge the motivation or manner of another's Camino. Judgement is left to the Supreme Being."
Rule #2 - "The Camino provides..." This means that assistance, or just a break in the weather, usually happens about when you need it the most. Just live in the moment and you will be fine. Enjoy the walk and smell the flowers... Appreciate the others around you all heading in the same direction.
Rule #3 - We accept that "St. James (the patron saint of the Camino) works in strange ways affecting pilgrims. Sometimes his methods and actions are just weird." Just BE, and let the overall ambiance overcome you.
The transformative affect is amazing. Be alert to the "micro-miracles" that occur around you every day. You do not have to be a religious person, or a Christian to realize these benefits.
You will meet people from all over the world, from every political, faith and cultural persuasion. If you are a military veteran, you may even meet former adversaries or enemies, this time on neutral territory. It is a small world...
English seems to be increasing as the defacto second language along the Camino routes. But, do try to learn at least some basic phrases, questions and answers in Spanish, Portuguese or French. "Please" and "thank you" go a long way in breaking down language barriers. Many languages are spoken by pilgrims from all over the world.
Yet, all pilgrims have the same thing in common, a shared pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela. Each pilgrim's reason for walking may be different, but all will be transformed by the experience.
Overall, the Golden Rule abides; "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you..." The rest is easy...
There are other "rules." But they are less important things addressing albergue etiquette, cultural and political sensitivity, etc. You will learn them quick enough if you just listen, help others in need, and go with the flow.
You must FIRST come to understand and love / accept yourself. Empathy for others comes after that. Cut yourself a very big break. Just BE.
The Camino will heal and help. Once you reach Santiago, presuming you will be on the road for a month or more, you will not recognize the new you. Just trust me and all of US on that. We have all been there and done that...
Weight Issues and Conditioning:
You are not the first, nor will you be the last "stocky" person to ever walk the Camino. I am 5'10 and now weigh about 230 pounds. I start my fifth Camino from Lisbon to Santiago on 27 April. I previously walked the full Camino Frances twice (2013 & 2014); Porto to Lisbon in 2015, and portions of the Madrid Route in 2016.
For more than 25 years I was morbidly obese, well over 300 pounds, and had a bariatric lap band installed in 2005. That helped me lose 90 pounds but decades of wear and tear on the knees from the weight and my career essentially knackered them. I have nearly no menisci cartilage in both knees. I remain technically obese, but otherwise completely healthy. I hope to turn 64 in June.
Just FYI, each March I schedule my annual physical, blood work, dental and optical examinations to ensure I am "good to go" for "Camino Season." This year, I got the green light. While we all die someday, I am not looking forward to my personal roadside shrine along the Camino, not at least just yet. You will see when I mean as you progress.
So, each day on Camino, I suit up like a knight going into battle. I lubricate my feet to reduce friction and blisters (I have had NONE in four outings), apply prodigious amounts of Voltaren ointment (reduces swelling and pain), put on elastic ankle and knee support braces, and THEN socks and outer wear. My "vesting" process usually takes 15 minutes. Only after all that, am I ready to walk for the day.
Every problem has a solution, every obstacle has a detour. If you cannot finish the day's planned walking and have a reservation waiting for you. go into the nearest bar / cafe and ask them to call a taxi to take you to "x."
It costs about one euro per Km. It is analogous to being offered a lift in a farmer's wagon back in the Middle Ages. Neither action is a sin. You only need to be scrupulous about the final 100 m, from Sarria, on the French Route. Get two stamps per day from there, from your lodging and a cafe during the day.
If you stay in albergues and sleep as you go, do so. Walk at YOUR pace, not others. Listen to your body. There are farmacias in nearly every town. The pharmacists have seen it all, many times. They can sell you products that would require a prescription here in North America.
FYI, the only training I do is to ensure that any new footwear is well broken in to eliminate blisters. I usually do some treadmill walking and weight work on my knees to preclude pain later. The first week of any multi-week Camino is essentially a "shakedown cruise." You do train as you walk.
After the first week of daily walking, things start to get better. That hill in the distance is not as scary as that first climb out of Saint Jean Pied de Port was, when you were hacking up your lungs... It is NOT that bad. The worst part is the first eight km. After that, it undulates up slightly and down.
Packing & Pack Weight:
Finally, do not carry more than you need. As a "Rule of Thumb" try to adhere to the gross rucksack weight, sans water, of 10 percent of your body weight or 10 kilograms (22 pounds). For what is is worth, the best I have the done is 12 kilos. But, I have to carry protein powder nutrition supplements to my diet. One week = one pound. Then, there are the medicines and nutrition supplements I must carry... Overall, when I start out from Lisbon on 27 April, I will be carrying about three kilos or six pounds of nutritional and medicinal support, for a nearly four week Camino.
As a consequence, I have become very skilled at paring all other carried weight down. I shop for ultralight gear, preferring siliconized nylon where possible. I use simple, one-gallon or three-liter ziplock bags to organize and keep waterproof my belongings inside the rucksack.
EVERY item I choose to pack and carry MUST have at least TWO alternative uses. Single-use items are luxuries I must mostly do without to save weight for the pills and powders. I replace paper books, guides, maps and other stuff with files on my iPhone. I have become adept at converting all manner of files to .pdf format. Bytes of storage weigh nothing.
There are threads, ad nauseum, on the Forum about packing, gear choices, etc. So I will no go into further detail here.
In summary, just do what ya gotta do to make this happen. You will be pleased with the results.
I hope this all helps. If you have questions, please feel free to send me a PM (Conversation).
I wish you "buen Camino" (ES) or "bom Caminho" (PT), depending on where you go.
This feels like the right year for me to walk the Camino-- much change in my life, and many "What's it all about?" questions to chew on. But I'm feeling fear, because I'm not in the best shape of my life.
If it's possible to "train as I go," I'd really like to get on the road in May-- before "peak heat," and before I postpone this again. Is this realistic?
This isn't an easy thing to write about. I'm carrying a lot of shame along with the pounds. But there's so much wisdom and support in this Forum, I'm hopeful people here may have some answers.
- I'm carrying a lot of extra weight, the kind I can't leave at home, or send ahead.
- Apart from that, I'm in good health. Blessed with strong legs, rarely hurting.
- Background of physical activity-- walking, hiking, cycling (including 5-6 centuries)
- Uphills have always been difficult, but I usually make it to the top. (Just not fast or pretty)
- I have plenty of time. Could walk 10km a day if I needed to.
Thanks much
In my opinion, "train as I go" is the way to do it for us city-dwellers. The first day on the camino, you train for the second day; the second day for the third, and so on. You have to listen to your body - know when to stop and when to move on. You don't have to follow the itinerary suggested in your guidebook. Stop wherever you feel you must. That worked for me on my two previous caminos. You'll do just fine!This feels like the right year for me to walk the Camino-- much change in my life, and many "What's it all about?" questions to chew on. But I'm feeling fear, because I'm not in the best shape of my life.
If it's possible to "train as I go," I'd really like to get on the road in May-- before "peak heat," and before I postpone this again. Is this realistic?
This isn't an easy thing to write about. I'm carrying a lot of shame along with the pounds. But there's so much wisdom and support in this Forum, I'm hopeful people here may have some answers.
- I'm carrying a lot of extra weight, the kind I can't leave at home, or send ahead.
- Apart from that, I'm in good health. Blessed with strong legs, rarely hurting.
- Background of physical activity-- walking, hiking, cycling (including 5-6 centuries)
- Uphills have always been difficult, but I usually make it to the top. (Just not fast or pretty)
- I have plenty of time. Could walk 10km a day if I needed to.
Thanks much
My son and I start May 5 and your sentiments are mine too. Hope to see you on the Camino!Hi Joecamino,
My daughter and I are also walking the Camino in May. We are both a bit unfit, I certainly have "inseperable baggage", and a little bit apprehensive. I'll look out for you, and maybe we can share a little laugh at ourselves.
I start in SJPP on the 6th of May. Happy planning!
I like my vino tinto as much as the next person, but alcohol is lousy for hydration on account of its diuretic properties (i.e. it makes you pee). Too much alcohol actually causes dehydration. Good old water is the best thing for hydration.
Well, I booked my flight, and expect to be walking out of SJPdP May 5th or 6th!
I've still got plenty of questions-- along with the "Oh my God, what have I done?!" anxiety-- but I'll post any of those in a separate thread, if a Forum search doesn't answer them.
Thanks again to everyone who posted. You helped remind me what can happen when I take a risk-- and got me off the fence on doing this.
This feels like the right year for me to walk the Camino-- much change in my life, and many "What's it all about?" questions to chew on. But I'm feeling fear, because I'm not in the best shape of my life.
If it's possible to "train as I go," I'd really like to get on the road in May-- before "peak heat," and before I postpone this again. Is this realistic?
This isn't an easy thing to write about. I'm carrying a lot of shame along with the pounds. But there's so much wisdom and support in this Forum, I'm hopeful people here may have some answers.
- I'm carrying a lot of extra weight, the kind I can't leave at home, or send ahead.
- Apart from that, I'm in good health. Blessed with strong legs, rarely hurting.
- Background of physical activity-- walking, hiking, cycling (including 5-6 centuries)
- Uphills have always been difficult, but I usually make it to the top. (Just not fast or pretty)
- I have plenty of time. Could walk 10km a day if I needed to.
Thanks much
Hi, Im sure you will be fine. But I think the most important thing is to book into Orrison the first night if starting at SJPP . Make the first few days as easy as possible. Its a beautiful place to stay.This feels like the right year for me to walk the Camino-- much change in my life, and many "What's it all about?" questions to chew on. But I'm feeling fear, because I'm not in the best shape of my life.
If it's possible to "train as I go," I'd really like to get on the road in May-- before "peak heat," and before I postpone this again. Is this realistic?
This isn't an easy thing to write about. I'm carrying a lot of shame along with the pounds. But there's so much wisdom and support in this Forum, I'm hopeful people here may have some answers.
- I'm carrying a lot of extra weight, the kind I can't leave at home, or send ahead.
- Apart from that, I'm in good health. Blessed with strong legs, rarely hurting.
- Background of physical activity-- walking, hiking, cycling (including 5-6 centuries)
- Uphills have always been difficult, but I usually make it to the top. (Just not fast or pretty)
- I have plenty of time. Could walk 10km a day if I needed to.
Thanks much
you can just go to orison the first day , not far at all . even if you took all day to get there he would get there !!!!It's unwise to tackle any camino..especially the Frances without some training. My reason is brief...The first day is UP about 25kms over the Pyrenees. A far better option than the over rated over crowded Frances is the VDLP...dead flat for the first day and many subsequent days
Hi Joe
I am starting in SJPP May 5
The thread you started really gives me inspiration
I have had plantar faciatis for the past 5 months and that coupled with a frigid winter and work I am in less than ideal condition too.
Let's do this !
Nicole
Hey JoeThis feels like the right year for me to walk the Camino-- much change in my life, and many "What's it all about?" questions to chew on. But I'm feeling fear, because I'm not in the best shape of my life.
If it's possible to "train as I go," I'd really like to get on the road in May-- before "peak heat," and before I postpone this again. Is this realistic?
This isn't an easy thing to write about. I'm carrying a lot of shame along with the pounds. But there's so much wisdom and support in this Forum, I'm hopeful people here may have some answers.
- I'm carrying a lot of extra weight, the kind I can't leave at home, or send ahead.
- Apart from that, I'm in good health. Blessed with strong legs, rarely hurting.
- Background of physical activity-- walking, hiking, cycling (including 5-6 centuries)
- Uphills have always been difficult, but I usually make it to the top. (Just not fast or pretty)
- I have plenty of time. Could walk 10km a day if I needed to.
Thanks much
Definitely start in Roncesvalles... or somewhere on the Spanish side. It's nuts to climb 1000 meters (or whatever) on your first day, even if you're in great shape.
Good on you JoeCamino!! May the shame you're feeling right now be quickly replaced by a sense of pride as you take on this journey, and may you find peace ... and so much more ... along The Way.Thank you everyone. I'm doing it! Might begin in SJPDP, or maybe a few days further out, so I hit Pyrenees with a walking start. Will take the Valcarlos route, and will absolutely bring walking poles.
I'm deeply touched by the responses here-- not just the advice, but the kindness too. If that's a snapshot of the Camino, then I understand better the draw it has.
We use cookies and similar technologies for the following purposes:
Do you accept cookies and these technologies?
We use cookies and similar technologies for the following purposes:
Do you accept cookies and these technologies?