Preparation and training
How much training will you need to do? The short answer is a lot – but this totally depends on how active you are to start with. Luckily for you the good people at total sport have come to our rescue with everything you need to be in tip top condition for Oxfam Trailwalker.
Step 1: Have a training plan – whether you try our training guides online or create your own, it is important to have a plan and stick to it. (That said, don’t freak out if you miss a session and don’t go crazy trying to make it up – you’re likely to need time to wear in new shoes or clothes and to try new gear.
Step 2: Do your research – there’s a world of general training information online and check out Gary Moller’s blog. Gary has published a number of excellent online articles about endurance training for events like Oxfam Trailwalker. If your Oxfam Trailwalker query has not already been answered, you can email Gary directly from his website
Step 3: Enjoy what you are doing – surround yourself with your teammates and other trail walking/running junkies and get out there and enjoy the beautiful trails in and around your local area.
- Click here for recommended training walks
- Click here for top tips from past Oxfam Trailwalkers
- Click here for trail safety – a guide to looking after yourself
Step 4: Get off-road – training off-road is crucial. Blisters are the biggest bug-bear of any athlete competing in an endurance event and preparation is the key. Your foot moves differently within your shoe when on off-road terrain, so no matter how worn-in your shoes are, if you’ve only pounded the pavement you’ll find blisters in places they’ve never been before.
