Walking 50 kilometres in one day is no easy feat, but on April 1st this year, I decided to take on this challenge. While I was excited about the journey ahead, I quickly realised that I was not as prepared as I should have been.
As someone who had not walked or exercised regularly in recent months, I severely underestimated the impact this challenge would have on my body. Despite doing a few 12km walks in the weeks leading up to the challenge, I was not prepared for the fatigue and strain that would come from walking 50 kilometres in a row.
The first two rounds of the walk were fine, but after lunch, around the 25km mark, things started to get more difficult. My legs were aching, and it felt like there was no end in sight. By the fourth and final round, my legs were in agony. Looking back, I realised that I should have taken my preparation more seriously and given myself more time to train and build up my endurance.
If you’re considering taking on a similar challenge, I would highly recommend walking regularly for at least 2-3 months beforehand to prepare your body for the strain. Additionally, make sure to invest in a good pair of walking shoes, preferably one size up and with wide width if you have wider feet. Brands like Columbia, and Salomon offer a wide variety of walking shoes that cater to different needs.
It’s also important to carry a second pair of shoes and fresh socks in your backpack. Taking breaks every few kilometres is crucial to avoid strain and injury, and putting your feet up during these breaks can help with circulation. If massage is available, take advantage of it after the 25km mark to relieve tension in your legs and feet.
Weather is also an important factor to consider, so be sure to check the forecast and dress appropriately. It’s better to layer up or down than to be caught off-guard by changing temperatures. I also recommend carrying an extra fleece or jacket as it can get chilly quickly, especially in the evening.
Despite the challenges, completing the 50km walk challenge was an incredible experience. The sense of accomplishment I felt after finishing was truly indescribable. The support of my family and friends, who followed me along the way and cheered me on, was also invaluable.
If you’re looking for a new challenge, I encourage you to consider taking on a 50km walk. Just make sure to take your preparation seriously and give yourself enough time to build up your endurance. Walking regularly for a few months beforehand, investing in good walking shoes, and carrying extra socks and shoes can go a long way in making the experience more comfortable and enjoyable. With the right preparation and mindset, you can conquer this challenge and come out stronger on the other side.
I did this challenge with Ultra Challenge - If you're looking for a well-organised and rewarding walking challenge, I highly recommend them. I was incredibly impressed with the level of support, organisation, and community that they provided. From the detailed information on their website to the friendly volunteers and well-stocked rest stops during the challenge itself, they clearly put a lot of thought and effort into every aspect of their events. The on-course medical support also helped me feel safe and supported as I pushed myself to complete the challenge.
MUM IS BACK 