Thursday, January 2
Dartmoor - Epilogue
Yet again a short break due to ongoing work/family constraints – in 2025 that will finally change.
Three nights wild camp, and ten tors visited, but distance covered - sod all really.
Perversely I’m in my best shape for decades, with strong hill fitness and load carrying ability, due to a regime over several years, of regular distance walking and a bit of self taught Pilates
(and a good chiro helps!)
On reflection, this is a highly lucrative payback from the many days of (at times) mind numbing boredom, covering 1000+miles each year, in all weathers, deliberately seeking out rougher terrain and long distances.
A pair of £250 boots now lasts me around 9 months before the soles and footbeds are starting to let go.
The reward - I can comfortably walk for a couple of hours, maintaining a very fast pace, without requiring rest or refreshment. No aches or pains afterwards. Stamina up. Weight down.
(Perhaps I should monetise it into a motto'd plan as an Interweby Influencer.....Nah, such self indulgent twaddle is not for me. And you won't find my image on the web despite a couple of decades of blogging - suck on that Mr AI)
In my mid-sixties, I’m still thankful to be able to solo walk/wild camp in the remoteness of Dartmoor.
Each time enriched by the experience.
When so many of my generation can barely shuffle across a room....or worse.
This getting old lark is a right bugger, but it doesn't have to be a constraint, given a little luck with health.
And to to walk and wildcamp on Dartmoor continues to give such a boost, for my heart and mind, then the cost is one I’m eager(huh) to pay.
Right enough of this - time for a long walk now the sun has finally decided to show itself after so many weeks of gloom.
Here's to a good 2025 y'all.
Now get off your laptop/phone and get out there while you still can!
Labels: dartmoor, Fitness, wild camping
Saturday, November 2
DARTMOOR DAY 1: Sat 7/9/2024 VIXEN TOR - FEATHER TOR-HECKWOOD TOR-PEW TOR
Family issues had meant that this was my first wildcamping trip this year.
Frustrating really as my exercise regime during the last few years had really benefitted my walking pace & pack carrying stamina.
Ho hum. Pay it forward, never a false economy in these, my advancing years.
But leaving it this late in the year meant that I wasn't over optimistic of stringing together many nights on the tops.
After the usual dreary drive across from Dorset, and a little exploratory reconnaissance, I loaded up at the car park west of Merrivale (GR 540 750)
A typically dreary start, with intermittent rain throughout the day.
A wander down to Vixen Tor (GR 541 742) for a looksee at just what "private land" offers.Ringed by barbwire (satisfyingly broken down in places) it presumes to be a jealously guarded spot mimicking some frontline battle line.
Which for many it still remains - being an early sign of things to come.
I originally mentioned it back in 2007 and 17 years later it remains deeply symbolic of the expanding conflict between private ownership and public access.
And to be honest, really not that great a spot to safeguard from the marauding hordes of drooling ramblers milling around the spot.
Well not really.
But at least the welcoming sign made me smile - best of luck enforcing!
Welcome to Vixen Tor
Onwards to tick off Feather Tor (534 741) .....
..
Feather Tor
....and its view onto Heckwood Tor (537 738) the next waypoint .....
Heckwood Tor
....where there was a suitably atmospheric glimpse of Great Mis Tor in the distance, a favourite overnight spot of mine with panoramic views down to the sea beyond Plymouth.
The leat and cross discovered along the way made a pleasant photo opportunity, initially suggesting a future wildcamping spot for a long hot sunny day. But it quickly became clear that this was a focal point for walkers in the area. Quickly crossed off my list - I prefer more solitary resting spots.
A short hop and already I was at the evening's camping spot Pew Tor (532 734)
4 tors ticked off in less than an hour - more a leg stretch than a walk. But after the early drive it was all I really required for a kit shakedown exercise.
Pew Tor
I wouldn't really consider any of these tors for a revisit, and certainly not for an overnighter.
From memory Pew Tor seemed quite popular with occasional visitors, with its proximity to the Merrivale car parks.But not anything that sticks in my memory as I write this now.Labels: dartmoor, Fitness, National Park, right to roam, vixen tor, wild camping
Sunday, March 7
Hengistbury Head & Fi(a)tness Trends
As promised earlier (and following some mild reflection \ toning down) where did all the Nordic Walkers come from so suddenly? And more to the point, what do some of them hope to achieve? (The clue was in the photo - walking poles and cafe seat BTW)
Saturday's duties took me into the Christchurch area. So for a change I took a walk out over Hengistbury Head, along Mudeford Sandspit, before tracing a route along the shore of Christchurch Harbour and back to the car.
Its not a long trip, less than 5 miles even taking the longer alternatives. However it manages to include a short but steep ascent & some superb coastal views.
To the east is The Needles Lighthouse drawing the eye beyond to the Isle of Wight.
And turning westwards a sweep across Bournemouth Bay. Swanage in the far distance, with the dowdy sprawl of the Poole/Bournemouth conurbation as one's gaze tracks the beach back towards your position.
.jpg)
Quickly turning to the north what remains of the Dorset heathland these days, along with the New Forest in the distance, is laid out before your feet. Twinkling distant in today's sunlight are the Rivers Stour & Avon, their floodplain meanderings finally joining up as they reach Christchurch, its Priory clearly silhouetted against the town.
.jpg)
Sounds idyllic doesn't it? A pity then the local council charge prohibitive amounts to use the car park. But despite that the area this Saturday morning was teeming with people, dogs, kids etc etc.
Well I should have known really. Its not a place to come for a quiet walk, not unless there's a gale lashing rain inland from the English Channel. Which for some reason tends to deter some people.
Not so your humble scribe. Although it has the dubious pleasure of being one of the few places where I had a (well fitted) cap ripped from my head and discarded some 50m away. Mind you it was a bit gusty that day - and I did seem to be the only one on the headland tasting salty raindrops. The rain actually wind sped spray spat up from the sea some 300m distant at the foot of the cliff 30+m below.
But that's another tale.
As usual I parked in one of the side streets to avoid the parking charge & avoid the predatory Traffic Wardens that roam the area. As I walked towards the headland track contouring the coastline the unexpected drone of bagpipes was wafted on the stiff breeze.
Well I say wafted.
Common to most bagpipe enthusiasts, interested in remaining on good terms with their neighbours, the only practice sites seem to be far out in the wilds as the skirl(?) of the pipes does have a tendency to carry some considerable distance.
Especially true today. Turning a corner the hedgerow on my right dropped away to reveal two of the buggers playing a spirited duet (whilst trying not to look as if they were up to no good in the bushes)
They needn't have worried - their playing was accomplished. Although quite what a brace of pipers were doing here on the south coast was another question entirely. Particularly when dressed in full Highland Regalia.
Nearing the Head the amount people increased - and with it an increasing number of those carrying/using walking poles. At first I thought nothing of it. That is until I noticed the strange outdoor regalia being worn. Trainers, jeans, tracksuits. It felt like a poorly funded fashion show. But the poles were clearly in pristine condition sporting brand names I'd not previously come across before.
And so it continued as I strode purposefully up to the OS trig point on the Head itself.
Onwards across the headland, wind blowing hard as usual, to eventually descend the far side, a spur of the moment decision made to head for the cafe on Mudeford Spit.
Note I've carefully not mentioned the cafe's name, or provided a link. If you're in this area use the Hungry Hiker next to the car park, which has a good reputation. Avoid the Spit's cafe unless you happen to like slow service, costly but poor quality food & the dubious distinction of queuing for a table whilst staring out over all the empty spaces!
This was the first (and last) time my business will be remitted at said establishment. A pity as its sister premises on Christchurch Quay is a long time & favourite haunt of mine, although recent visits suggest a subtle drop in ambiance & service.
Sitting in the cafe and awaiting my order, my attention was again drawn to the frequency of fellow diners with nice shiny walking poles leaning haphazardly by their tables.
It seems that Nordic Walking as a fitness regime has hit this area big time. Quite how or why this has happened remains a mystery to me.
Now please don't take my skepticism as a negative feeling. I'm all for anything that gets people outdoors and enjoying the landscape. But judging by the amount of food being consumed today's exercise benefit was for fast being negated by a mass intake of carbs, fats & sugary substances.
As I pushed away my half eaten meal (a salad - naturally) I made for the exit and a more solitary route back to avoid the excess of humanity working hard at working hard. But I couldn't help but wonder as I passed the "Noddy Train" stop, its lengthening queue of people awaiting the 5 minute ride back to the car park, just how many of the Stick Brigade would take that option for their return journey. Full bellies complaining at the thought of the reasonably short walk back.
Maybe I was right.
My route back followed the edge of the harbour. A quiet & solitary amble with not a soul met along the way until I neared the tarmac track to exit the headland. And with it the inevitable bottleneck of people, sticks & wandering dogs.
Now I remember why I avoid this area like a plague during the summer months; And most of the Winter ones as well.
A good walking route, like a good wine, is to be enjoyed & savoured for inner contentment. And regrettably the well intentioned aims to make this area into a 'Visitor Attraction' has instead created a strange sort of venue.
My tip - it can be an enjoyable walk with superb veiws. But go when the weather is foul & the Stick People are more likely to stay away.
Labels: Fitness, New Forest, walks
Thursday, August 21
aRoundabout - outdoor news and views (Aug 22)
Blimey, Bank Holiday weekend looming up already. Was that summer already? At least no one seems to be worrying about the impending weather. Well it can’t really be much worse than what we've had over recent weeks. Can it?
So a bit of on-line entertainment in case you become in need of an excuse to keep you from throttling the in-law(s)/kid(s)/partner(s) during the coming days.
Walkingforum.co.uk has been around for a little while and has a thriving on-line community. True there are a number of other forums used by those of us getting our outdoor chat and information on-line. But none, as far as I'm aware, specifically geared to walking.
Sam Haraldson over at Ultralight Backpacking, Wilderness Trekking, Outdoor Adventure (Wow - snappy title) is a bit keen on ultralight backpacking, US style. His site is full of goodies to explore. And a blog as well. One I’ll be working through over coming days.
By some weird synchronicity I found myself earlier this evening reading a familiar phrase casually tossed into my day by MagicMan himself, Alan Sloman. 'Skull cinema' - now where had I read that before?
Google pointed me all over the net, even suggesting one source to be Stephen King. But it was this piece from The Straggler - The Road To Wisdom (ignore the 'Install Chinese language' offer - its a legitimate site) that finally reminded me of the phrase originator, John Hillaby - writer and (compulsive?) long distance walker. Not necessarily the first LeJoG challenger, but his "Journey Through Britain" is surely the first to put the journey down in print, for a modern audience to share.
Sadly John is no longer with us, but the book remains a true classic, as is much of his other work. The Straggler reminded me of an under thought that's been skipping around my mind since the springtime. How far can you walk in a day? Or more to the point, at what point does it cease to Be Fun and become A Chore?
I'll spend some wet weather time indoors with The Straggler articles if this is typical of the quality of work available.
And if the sun does happen to shamefacedly pop out. Well there's a little local walk I've been eyeing for sometime. Say about 30+ miles. Which might just beckon me along its route, if conditions are right, and the fact it follows a floodplain isn’t the deterrent it sounds.
Finally, looking back at the LeJoG topic, LoneWalker's Blog is considering the same subject. Again a blog within a site full of backpacking and walking information.
Whatever the weather, have a good one. And let's all try to have it outdoors.Labels: blog media, Fitness, Gear, New Forest, walks
Sunday, July 6
Nordic Walking USA
One of the enjoyable benefits of this Blogging malarkey is getting feedback & following up other people's experience of outdoor affairs.
So thanks to Claire for her view on mixed format shows from the USA, which in turn led me on to one of her blogs, Nordic Walking USA, to explore how this activity is developing.
A further spin-off is the chance to feedback the specialist information to one of my show contacts and assist their own plans to to improve their on-line activity.
Wins all round!Labels: Fitness
Saturday, May 24
Mad, Bad & Good To Go
I spotted a BBC news item earlier today trailing the forthcoming BBC2 SpringWatch programme. One theme discussed was the beneficial effects of nature. With personal insight from one of SW's presenters, Bill Oddie, a self confessed sufferer with clinical depression.
This hearkens back to a regular theme mentioned here in the past praising regular activity outdoors as a simple and rapid pick-me-up for mental health improvement. And searching for that reference I spotted it was about the same time last year that I posted on this subject.
Oh dear - should I worry?
Perhaps its because I feel much in need of recharge myself after some difficult work pressures over the last few weeks (Hence the erratic posting - sitting in front of a keyboard for relaxation hasn't really been much of a pleasure recently)
Then there's been the steady stream of ad hoc visitors at home. All usually welcome, but not one after the other like the typical early morning bus to work.
Normally either of these is not a problem. But this Bank Holiday weekend I just feel like pulling up the drawbridge and repelling all boarders (says he mixing his metaphors)
I'd already decided, in light of Ian Fleming's 100th birthday anniversary (huh- how does that work then?) and a passing acquaintance with the film version of his creation James Bond 007, that I'd read through the whole series of Bond books in their published sequence. An idea arising from recent press articles about the man and the depiction of his work on film. For Bond, on film, is not the same as Bond the book character. (Why do films seem to screw up a good plot so very easily?) And as for the plot lines - typically mangled to hell it appears (I read Octopussy during the week - a 30 page short story, and little to do with Bond, except as a catalyst; And definitely nothing about world domination!)
Fleming wrote each new book to lead on from the previous, making for one long story across the books as a whole. It's a great way to approach an author's work if you find the material enjoyable, especially if you read as quickly as myself.
I first tried this a few years ago with the C.P.Snow series "Strangers & Brothers", about 13 books I recall. Trying to remember the total brings to mind pleasant memories of a trip to Hay-On Wye, the UK second-hand book capital, tracking down cheap pulp versions of each edition.
Closer to home I have scoured the local charity shops to find missing items, occasionally turning to E-Bay, or Amazon's excellent used section. For it's often the early part of the series that proves more difficult to find with smaller print runs when the author was less well known.
These days, having the benefit of on-line Library Search & Reservation facilities across three organisations, I can usually line up the books in advance, with only the cost of the reservation fee. True the thrill of the chase may be gone, but with much less cost. And there is also the consideration of what do to with the books once read. My expanding personal library is stored insecurely in large boxes, and as a result the attic floor groans alarmingly at times.
Its been said that "the pen is mightier than the sword" Not quite what was in mind if one night the straining attic floor was to give way, depositing its load onto me below. Peacefully asleep.
Which really is where I should be soon, to recharge my physical battery in preparation for some decent outdoor walkabouts, despite today's blustery south coast winds but unexpected warmth.
There you go.... TV, Health, Film, Education... and even a bit on the Weather at the end.
Where else could you get such a rich variety and still have the option of ignoring it all
;-) Labels: books, Fitness, Mental Health, nature
Monday, March 10
How to walk uphill?
I spotted a whimsical thread recently on the uk.rec.walking newsgroup referring to a Daily Telegraph piece "Science of the bleedin' obvious - It's easier to climb in zigzags"
Taking a quick look, I nodded sagely at the astounding conclusion that "people can use less energy by moving up and down steep slopes in a complicated motion known as zigzagging", smiled at the futility. And then moved on.
A little later I realised something about the new report was niggling away in a corner of my mind. Whilst the root source was unavailable, a précis of the piece provided further detail (and left me thankful that the full report wasn't something I felt obliged to work my way through)
Undoubtedly the conclusion is valid, but more importantly its one that any trainee hill walker quickly learns through painful experiment.
But still that niggle remained, until it dawned on me that I can't recall any of the outdoor books fully explaining the real trick to walking uphill. Well at least to do it with least effort and maximum effect. Lots of examples, but no clear explanation.
So gather closer O Initiate to be introduced to the wonderful principle of Cadence.
Now if you've just followed that last link, you may be mystified as to what on earth I'm talking about. And quite right too. After all, as any Initiate understands the truth is not easily revealed, but needs to be revealed often via a path of self-awareness.
So try this definition of Cadence to see if the mists of confusion clear. What still none the wiser?
Simply put Cadence is the method of keeping an even pace as you walk. You could measure it by paces per minute. Or energy exertion i.e. how fast/sweaty you feel as you move. Some like to use a heartbeat monitor to regulate the activity. But the trick is all in pace length.
Walking downhill, on good ground, you will naturally extend the length of your stride. And uphill the reverse is true. So to gain maximum benefit the key is to keep the walking pace the same (i.e. the number of paces per minute) but to change your stride pattern to match the ground you are covering. By doing this the majority of physical effort actually expended remains largely constant dependant on your physical fitness. And that last point is the problem.
Walking uphill try to keep your pace rate stable, shortening each step to keep that pace regular. But unless you are supremely mountain fit you'll soon find that the effect of your maintaining your pace count usually results in increasingly short steps and eventually very limited progress forward.
It's usually at that point that pace counting gets dropped and a switch over to an increased use of thigh muscles and arm swinging comes into play. And with it an increase in energy expenditure. And that ends up with an outbreak of sweating, something we all have experienced.
Personally my first few days newly out on the hills seem to require a couple of hours sweating profusely until my body works out what is being expected of it, and then starts to kick in with the extra muscle growth as compensation. Which is why the level of fitness I enjoy at the end of a trip is one of many benefits. But unfortunately one difficult to maintain without a regular exposure to the same sort of physical challenge.
But assuming you have the right level of physical fitness, remember the principle of Cadence for an easier ascent.
After all why do you think that the slow but steady Nepalese porter on an expedition will always arrive at camp ahead of the rushing trekker, once the latter has expended their energy excess?
And that observation you will find spread throughout much outdoor literature.
Well done O ex-Initiate (don't forget to pick up a pass certificate on your way out of the cave)
Homework for next time - practise the the 'Use of Will Power' to 'Get Up That Bloody Big Hill'. Swearing optional.
Another one for the FAQ I think.
Labels: Backpacking Advice, Fitness
Wednesday, January 9
Walking & Camping plans for 2008? Mr Kipling says "thats an exceedingly good ...."
Got those plans for your outdoor fun sorted yet?
Or maybe you are one of those people who prefer to work on a less formal approach with some vague thoughts and ideas. They're rattling around your brain at present, waiting to settle into something more concrete.
There's a number of people at this time of year who are busily trying to stick to their new resolutions. In some cases they can seem so vague as to be prone to failure. "Walk 12,000 miles this year"? So how do you know/care about that target after 3 months. Is it 500 or 2,500 miles down then. And if so why stick it - there's always next year after all.
I tend more towards the informal approach personally, but with some lessons used regularly in my day-life (that so-called real existence - bah!) That would be Lessons That Work mind you.
To quote the source usually associated with this simple advice welcome to Rudyard Kipling (the old cake maker himself - not), whose words still stand the test of time and common sense:
"I keep six honest serving-men
(They taught me all I knew);
Their names are What and Why and When
And How and Where and Who"
I know RK is more than a little non PC these days due to the "empire/colonial Englishman abroad" approach to the world of his writings. And such gems as Soudan Expeditionary Force can be hard to fathom per se these days. A man of his times most definitely. However there is a school of thought that believes his work may be read as a deliberate satire warning of the dangers of colonialism and the oppression of native nations. And he was for a time the youngest receiver of the Nobel Prize for literature.
Back to the message anyhow. It's a tenet commonly to be found in the field of journalism, and a litmus test I apply when reading/listening to news reports these days when assessing their ability to report. That is to inform. Rather than, as is increasingly more the case, to 'entertain' with only a few parts of a factual story.
Lets break the advice down to see how it can be used to get help:
What
At present this could be very clear, possibly due to circumstance (complete the TGO Challenge following selection pre Xmas - oops sorry Bob/Andy, or finally get that LEJoG trip going) Or possibly quite nebulous "Get out more wildcamping in '08"
Whichever it is, perhaps its time to make a wish list. Now. And Keep it in your wallet/purse so you can add/change it over the coming weeks as ideas present themselves.
Why
Self evident really to most readers of this site. But it does sometime pay to consider what you actually want to get from it. And that doesn't always mean climbing the highest point, or walking for miles.
Simply being outdoors will suffice for some folk.
When
Easier stuff now. For most of us this will be the warmer months, despite the reports coming back on wildcamping trips over the Xmas period. But that season can be very short if the real planning doesn't get going until June, or waits until after that summer holiday.
How
Not usually a problem, and normally related to transport logistics. But for a change why not try a different way of getting there, and possibly freeing up your mind to other route making opportunities as a result?
Or how about just walking out of that front door and start the trip straight away?
Where
Well I know where I want to go. You've your own choices.
But I do try to include one new location - some form of change/new challenge. And then there's always at least one old favourite in there as well. A return to past pleasures.
Who
If you plan to have company now is the time, whilst spirits seem as low as January finances, to offer some hope to others by getting them on board with your plans. Or perhaps you can fit in with their ideas?
Just some thoughts to play with. Hopefully provocative enough to stir the creative juices.
As I said earlier I'm quite informal in these things. Mostly. But without the self delivered promise of, say, that June week wildcamping in the Lakes, these long dark nights can drag. And what better way to shorten them with some early planning.
But let's not forget the ad-hoc trips which spring from sudden opportunity, and despite fore planning can often turn out to be the most enjoyable of all.
Something to do with stolen fruit being the sweetest perhaps?
Whatever your ideas, best of luck with them. No scratch that last wish. The best of 'working out how to get out into the outdoors to do it for yourself'. Whatever that may be for you.Labels: Fitness, Miscellaneous, walks
Monday, December 17
Sustrans National Lottery win - Pig in a Poke?
Lacking comment elsewhere within the UK outdoor blogging community (unless I've overlooked someone) here's my personal thoughts on the award last week of £50 million to Sustrans’ Connect2 project from the Big Lottery Fund to invest in walking and cycling UK-wide.
When the award was initially announced my reaction was - so what's that to me? I've been aware of Sustrans for some time now, but associated the group mostly with cycle routes. Not a huge interest of mine, but it sounded like a positive move - money to help with access to the great outdoors.
Now with anything related to the "National Lottery" my main reaction to that these days is by now pretty negative.
Why when I attempt to buy my Saturday paper/smokes do I somehow end up queueing behind a string of punters intent on buying multiple combinations of Lottery tickets and Lottery scratch cards - does anyone besides myself actually buy goods in a newsagents these days?
Furthermore I'm not against gambling per se. Indeed last week saw me spending sometime in the local casino during an evening's entertainment (And there's plenty I could write on the plain evidence of the dissociation of the ardent gambler from the surroundings and people around them. A very scary and extreme phenomena to observe for an occasional punter like myself)
But as for the national lottery being a "good" bet - hardly good odds to be honest, but back to the plot....
Sustrans successful bid was "to build a national network of cycle and walking routes". A laudable aim.
And then came news of certain alleged shenanigans with the voting. Oh right. What a surprise. Hasn't the recent rash of TV voting scams really already made the point on this. And frankly if I was involved with a charity seeking a donation of this magnitude I would make darned sure all my friends, relations, passers-by etc etc etc voted for my team using whatever means were provided by the donating organisation. But it seems that this has upset some folk as to the fairness of it all.
But despite the controversy let's stand back and look at all the candidates up for the cash - Eden Project: The Edge; Sherwood: The Living Legend; Black Country Urban Park; Sustrans: Connect2;
Three out of the four offering locally based projects.
And the winner - well that would be the only one with a nationally based project. Small wonder they received more votes really bearing in mind the increased number of people that their project could potentially influence.
So to the delivery plans of the winners to see just how this affects my outdoors access. After a little more digging into the detail behind Sustrans plans I must admit I'm still very unclear on quite what they intend to deliver. No great projects - just lots of joining up bits. And the more I look into the local initiatives, the more unsettling they become being aimed at semi-urban routes, possibly intending to influence some of the local population to walk/cycle to their destinations. But I'd guess more aimed at those lardy arses who think it fine in principle but won't bother to use the facilities anyway, save for an occasional trip with the kids at the height of summer.
I'm trying hard not to get too scathing here after looking at the local project nearest to me. For it proposes provision of a cycleway from a rural area with a very small population, but potentially many airport workers, into the built up areas of Bournemouth. But there's a few drawbacks here.
Firstly - the route already exists on the ground, mostly over existing country back roads, and a bridge across the River Stour. In fact I cycled the route over ten years ago. So its not about provision of anything new. Just upgraded somewhere I'd assume.
Secondly if the route is upgraded it has the potential to increased cycle traffic along paths currently trod mostly by the dog walking brigade, and at one pinch point a number of fishermen. No potential for an increase in conflicting usage here then - wandering dogs, men with expensive fishing gear lying the ground, and cyclists at an increased speed.
Thirdly, the main beneficiary should be the airport workers. But frankly I'd be surprised if many of those not already using the route would choose to do so after its been upgraded (whatever that entails)
And finally - this is not to cover the whole route indicated on the map - but just that piece marked in red i.e. the pinch point referred to earlier. I'd guess that means taking a sometimes narrow and muddy riverside walk, aka locally as a peaceful summertime stroll. And creating a cycle track instead. Great news.
I'd love to be more objective here. To base my view on fact and details. But the plans are really rather sketchy at best, and also carry a couple of interesting warnings as to "the far reaching nature of the scheme" and "not a promise where the route will go".
Huh? So what was the money budgeted for in the £50 million bid then?
In fairness I'll leave this for the present until more detail arises once this project starts on the ground.
But as a walker I fear perhaps the Sustrans bid doesn't really represent much of importance to me and may in fact deter me from using this particular area in the future.
More to come on this I'm sure. Labels: Fitness, Miscellaneous, walks
Sunday, October 28
TV: When Hell Freezes
No, not the title of the Eagles latest offering but another film/documentary from Channel 4 to be screened during prime time this coming Monday (21:00 - 22:35)
Following on after Joe Simpson's 'Beckoning Silence' last week tomorrow's programme relates Douglas Mawson's 1912 Antarctic expedition (or more relevantly the failure of it) that resulted in his 315-mile trek sans his original companions, and most of the food.
I can't presently find out if there's any more of these daring-do tales to come, but the subject matter so far is well chosen, and if Simpson's offering is anything to go by, well put together.
Aren't we outdoorsy folk being spoilt at presentLabels: Fitness, Miscellaneous
Tuesday, October 23
Joe Simpson on Surviving Till 40
No apologies for a follow up the JS piece to mention another of his on-line articles.
The git may be a year younger than me, but I'd bet I don't make nearly as many creaking noises as Mr S when I walk. And for me that is despite far too many years abusing motorcycles in some pretty foul weather/places.
That's mostly astride the bike concerned; Sometimes beneath it;
Ho hum. Never forget how to grow old. Rather disgracefully.Labels: books, Fitness, Miscellaneous
Monday, August 6
Me and my big mouth
Sod's Law will have its little joke, following my spirit rendition about Fitness a few days ago.
A niggling lower back pain has proved a stubborn little distraction over the past week, and finally decided to take up semi-permanent residency. And now I need to think about its presence there's a realisation that it has been twinging for two or maybe even three weeks.
Hhmmm - post Scotland? But like most of these slowly developing complaints (and believe me I complain about things like this!) I can't put my finger on any particular mishap or trigger.
So its off to the chiro once more, and highly likely I'm now a a no show at the upcoming UK Outdoors Bloggers Welsh Meet this weekend.
Curses.
And I recall that the oh so nice Alan Sloman was bringing me my weight in beer. I wonder if he recalls Davenports esteemed service? Now when did that slide quietly out of contemporary life?Labels: Fitness, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Wednesday, August 1
The Butcher's Dog or Fit For Nothing?
Over the last couple of months I've had an few thoughts bouncing around at the back of my brain concerning fitness and its relevance to hill walking and backpacking. There's a lot of tosh, especially in mens magazines, about the 'right' level of physical ability and how to achieve or improve the level each individual may require for their particular lifestyle.
So a timely programme from BBC Radio 4 "Am I Normal" on the very subject, available via the BBC Listen Again service. The second series is picking up from the first, giving a pragmatic view of many myths around medicine and human normality. And bursting a few preconceptions along the way
And hey - guess what? No-one can really agree how to easily measure an individual's fitness level (without a bank of gym/lab based tests) or indeed what exercise regime is necessary to help an individual become 'fit'.
Naturally I've got a few ideas of mine own.
I thought a definition of the term 'Fitness' would be a good starting point but surprisingly a clear definition, or at least one that doesn't include the word 'Fit' is difficult to nail down. This is typical........
Fitness - 'Good health or physical condition, especially as the result of exercise and proper nutrition'
My old fallback Wikipedia has a slightly fuller discussion including this telling phrase "This is often presented in textbooks as a triangle which represent physical, emotional, and mental fitness. Hence, one may be physically fit but may still suffer from a mental illness or have emotional problems. The "ideal triangle" is balanced in all areas"
Hmm - that's a lot more than the usual view that fitness relates to an ability to run a marathon or swim a couple of miles? Only one side of the triangle surely?
Out walking a good level of physical ability is relevant to the route, the geographical terrain and the duration of the exercise. Hence a recovering heart attack victim may find a short walk along a canal side national trail ideal, but not a steep haul to a peak straight up from the valley floor!
So how does that affect what we do?
I'd rate my own level of fitness as "good", but not great. That is I can walk several miles over farmland tracks without needing to stop for more than an occasional rest. More to break a trip up really. I don't pant when walking, and I can carry a reasonable weight as necessary.
I walk regularly throughout the winter months, but when it comes to my first backpacking trip to the hills each year I have one simple rule that I stick with - "Take it easy, and listen to the body"
Its not about how fast I move, or how much ground is covered. Its the fact that I can safely pass over the fellside, at an easy pace, without listening to blood pounding in my ears and with my heart feeling like its trying to come through my chest. If that's the case I'm going too fast or the terrain is not right for my level of physical activity (and that's not a situation I've yet to come across)
The first 1/2 hour or so climbing up the ascent is always a trial, no matter what time of year, and how used to it I am. And I expect to sweat. A lot. But a bit like a runner getting into their stride, once that is over and the body responding to the physical effort I tend to settle down. The first couple of days on a trip the aches and pains can make movement early in the day quite errr .....interesting, but its never so painful that it affects my ability to move and walk safely. And the body naturally detoxs itself over the first few days of concerted physical activity and plenty of food/water for refuelling along the way.
So in my case fitness is the ability of my body to safely perform the physical activity required of it.
As the summer continues my walking speed and my recovery ability picks up (I'm getting 'fitter'), my body naturally responding to the physical stimulation and building additional muscle and sinew to cope with the specific physical challenges I have set it. The key word here - naturally.
So how to get hill fit? Easy. Walk. Out on the hills if possible, or at least start using the stairs. You've got to start somewhere. And do it regularly. That's the key.
Cycling, swimming, running or even a gym all help with cardio vascular fitness but the essential method of getting fitter to walk, is ..... well just to walk. A lot.
I used to run regularly especially using a lot of hill work besides the local seafront, but perversely I found this created an over dependence on those muscles groups required for running. And though my CV was excellent I found increasing problems performing other exercise due to this over specialisation. More prone for instance to ankle and calf muscle injury. Often ending in physio treatment.
So to the other elements of fitness.
I've not seen much in the outdoor mags about this, but without will power, the intent to reach a selected point, that special sense of purpose, you probably won't even manage to get out of the car in the car park.
Many is the time I've felt that I needed to stop, only to look at the map and decide that the rest stop a few miles further on looked attractive, and within minutes of deciding to continue my fitness level and general spirits felt improved. The mind can be a dirty little trickster and it will naturally try for the easy option where possible. Again walking with or without a pack (but regularly) has taught me recognise when I really am finished for the day, or just letting my mind get one over on me (Remember the phrase 'Mind Over Matter'?)
But beware over overriding all the signals from the mind and body. The other side of the coin is knowing when enough is enough for the day.
And finally - enjoy the trip. If you're fretting about the weather, whether sun or rain. If its no longer fun, but a physical and mind numbing trial of stamina. Time to plan a finish.
The hill will always be there another day. It's mostly useful if you can say the same about yourself.
So next time some gym fit hero tells you about their 25 mile multi peak bagging day, that started and finished in the dark, and as they collapse into the chair before you, time to ask the killer question. And why did you enjoy it?
I reckon that's my triangle in place.
And if you want to think more about how to put that route plan together and make the best of your days out, Paul has some excellent observations over on Wilderness WalesLabels: Fitness, Mental Health, Trip Planning
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Yet again a short break due to ongoing work/family constraints – in 2025 that will finally change.
Three nights wild camp, and ten tors visited, but distance covered - sod all really.
Perversely I’m in my best shape for decades, with strong hill fitness and load carrying ability, due to a regime over several years, of regular distance walking and a bit of self taught Pilates
(and a good chiro helps!)
On reflection, this is a highly lucrative payback from the many days of (at times) mind numbing boredom, covering 1000+miles each year, in all weathers, deliberately seeking out rougher terrain and long distances.
A pair of £250 boots now lasts me around 9 months before the soles and footbeds are starting to let go.
The reward - I can comfortably walk for a couple of hours, maintaining a very fast pace, without requiring rest or refreshment. No aches or pains afterwards. Stamina up. Weight down.
(Perhaps I should monetise it into a motto'd plan as an Interweby Influencer.....Nah, such self indulgent twaddle is not for me. And you won't find my image on the web despite a couple of decades of blogging - suck on that Mr AI)
In my mid-sixties, I’m still thankful to be able to solo walk/wild camp in the remoteness of Dartmoor.
Each time enriched by the experience.
When so many of my generation can barely shuffle across a room....or worse.
This getting old lark is a right bugger, but it doesn't have to be a constraint, given a little luck with health.
And to to walk and wildcamp on Dartmoor continues to give such a boost, for my heart and mind, then the cost is one I’m eager(huh) to pay.
Right enough of this - time for a long walk now the sun has finally decided to show itself after so many weeks of gloom.
Here's to a good 2025 y'all.
Now get off your laptop/phone and get out there while you still can!
Labels: dartmoor, Fitness, wild camping
DARTMOOR DAY 1: Sat 7/9/2024 VIXEN TOR - FEATHER TOR-HECKWOOD TOR-PEW TOR
Family issues had meant that this was my first wildcamping trip this year.
Frustrating really as my exercise regime during the last few years had really benefitted my walking pace & pack carrying stamina.
Ho hum. Pay it forward, never a false economy in these, my advancing years.
But leaving it this late in the year meant that I wasn't over optimistic of stringing together many nights on the tops.
After the usual dreary drive across from Dorset, and a little exploratory reconnaissance, I loaded up at the car park west of Merrivale (GR 540 750)
A typically dreary start, with intermittent rain throughout the day.
A wander down to Vixen Tor (GR 541 742) for a looksee at just what "private land" offers.Ringed by barbwire (satisfyingly broken down in places) it presumes to be a jealously guarded spot mimicking some frontline battle line.
Which for many it still remains - being an early sign of things to come.
I originally mentioned it back in 2007 and 17 years later it remains deeply symbolic of the expanding conflict between private ownership and public access.
And to be honest, really not that great a spot to safeguard from the marauding hordes of drooling ramblers milling around the spot.
Well not really.
But at least the welcoming sign made me smile - best of luck enforcing!
Welcome to Vixen Tor
Onwards to tick off Feather Tor (534 741) .....
.. Feather Tor
....and its view onto Heckwood Tor (537 738) the next waypoint .....
Heckwood Tor
....where there was a suitably atmospheric glimpse of Great Mis Tor in the distance, a favourite overnight spot of mine with panoramic views down to the sea beyond Plymouth.
The leat and cross discovered along the way made a pleasant photo opportunity, initially suggesting a future wildcamping spot for a long hot sunny day. But it quickly became clear that this was a focal point for walkers in the area. Quickly crossed off my list - I prefer more solitary resting spots.
A short hop and already I was at the evening's camping spot Pew Tor (532 734)
4 tors ticked off in less than an hour - more a leg stretch than a walk. But after the early drive it was all I really required for a kit shakedown exercise.
Pew Tor
I wouldn't really consider any of these tors for a revisit, and certainly not for an overnighter.
From memory Pew Tor seemed quite popular with occasional visitors, with its proximity to the Merrivale car parks.But not anything that sticks in my memory as I write this now.Labels: dartmoor, Fitness, National Park, right to roam, vixen tor, wild camping
Sunday, March 7
Hengistbury Head & Fi(a)tness Trends
As promised earlier (and following some mild reflection \ toning down) where did all the Nordic Walkers come from so suddenly? And more to the point, what do some of them hope to achieve? (The clue was in the photo - walking poles and cafe seat BTW)
Saturday's duties took me into the Christchurch area. So for a change I took a walk out over Hengistbury Head, along Mudeford Sandspit, before tracing a route along the shore of Christchurch Harbour and back to the car.
Its not a long trip, less than 5 miles even taking the longer alternatives. However it manages to include a short but steep ascent & some superb coastal views.
To the east is The Needles Lighthouse drawing the eye beyond to the Isle of Wight.
And turning westwards a sweep across Bournemouth Bay. Swanage in the far distance, with the dowdy sprawl of the Poole/Bournemouth conurbation as one's gaze tracks the beach back towards your position.
Quickly turning to the north what remains of the Dorset heathland these days, along with the New Forest in the distance, is laid out before your feet. Twinkling distant in today's sunlight are the Rivers Stour & Avon, their floodplain meanderings finally joining up as they reach Christchurch, its Priory clearly silhouetted against the town.
Sounds idyllic doesn't it? A pity then the local council charge prohibitive amounts to use the car park. But despite that the area this Saturday morning was teeming with people, dogs, kids etc etc.
Well I should have known really. Its not a place to come for a quiet walk, not unless there's a gale lashing rain inland from the English Channel. Which for some reason tends to deter some people.
Not so your humble scribe. Although it has the dubious pleasure of being one of the few places where I had a (well fitted) cap ripped from my head and discarded some 50m away. Mind you it was a bit gusty that day - and I did seem to be the only one on the headland tasting salty raindrops. The rain actually wind sped spray spat up from the sea some 300m distant at the foot of the cliff 30+m below.
But that's another tale.
As usual I parked in one of the side streets to avoid the parking charge & avoid the predatory Traffic Wardens that roam the area. As I walked towards the headland track contouring the coastline the unexpected drone of bagpipes was wafted on the stiff breeze.
Well I say wafted.
Common to most bagpipe enthusiasts, interested in remaining on good terms with their neighbours, the only practice sites seem to be far out in the wilds as the skirl(?) of the pipes does have a tendency to carry some considerable distance.
Especially true today. Turning a corner the hedgerow on my right dropped away to reveal two of the buggers playing a spirited duet (whilst trying not to look as if they were up to no good in the bushes)
They needn't have worried - their playing was accomplished. Although quite what a brace of pipers were doing here on the south coast was another question entirely. Particularly when dressed in full Highland Regalia.
Nearing the Head the amount people increased - and with it an increasing number of those carrying/using walking poles. At first I thought nothing of it. That is until I noticed the strange outdoor regalia being worn. Trainers, jeans, tracksuits. It felt like a poorly funded fashion show. But the poles were clearly in pristine condition sporting brand names I'd not previously come across before.
And so it continued as I strode purposefully up to the OS trig point on the Head itself.
Onwards across the headland, wind blowing hard as usual, to eventually descend the far side, a spur of the moment decision made to head for the cafe on Mudeford Spit.
Note I've carefully not mentioned the cafe's name, or provided a link. If you're in this area use the Hungry Hiker next to the car park, which has a good reputation. Avoid the Spit's cafe unless you happen to like slow service, costly but poor quality food & the dubious distinction of queuing for a table whilst staring out over all the empty spaces!
This was the first (and last) time my business will be remitted at said establishment. A pity as its sister premises on Christchurch Quay is a long time & favourite haunt of mine, although recent visits suggest a subtle drop in ambiance & service.
Sitting in the cafe and awaiting my order, my attention was again drawn to the frequency of fellow diners with nice shiny walking poles leaning haphazardly by their tables.
It seems that Nordic Walking as a fitness regime has hit this area big time. Quite how or why this has happened remains a mystery to me.
Now please don't take my skepticism as a negative feeling. I'm all for anything that gets people outdoors and enjoying the landscape. But judging by the amount of food being consumed today's exercise benefit was for fast being negated by a mass intake of carbs, fats & sugary substances.
As I pushed away my half eaten meal (a salad - naturally) I made for the exit and a more solitary route back to avoid the excess of humanity working hard at working hard. But I couldn't help but wonder as I passed the "Noddy Train" stop, its lengthening queue of people awaiting the 5 minute ride back to the car park, just how many of the Stick Brigade would take that option for their return journey. Full bellies complaining at the thought of the reasonably short walk back.
Maybe I was right.
My route back followed the edge of the harbour. A quiet & solitary amble with not a soul met along the way until I neared the tarmac track to exit the headland. And with it the inevitable bottleneck of people, sticks & wandering dogs.
Now I remember why I avoid this area like a plague during the summer months; And most of the Winter ones as well.
A good walking route, like a good wine, is to be enjoyed & savoured for inner contentment. And regrettably the well intentioned aims to make this area into a 'Visitor Attraction' has instead created a strange sort of venue.
My tip - it can be an enjoyable walk with superb veiws. But go when the weather is foul & the Stick People are more likely to stay away.
Labels: Fitness, New Forest, walks
Thursday, August 21
aRoundabout - outdoor news and views (Aug 22)
Blimey, Bank Holiday weekend looming up already. Was that summer already? At least no one seems to be worrying about the impending weather. Well it can’t really be much worse than what we've had over recent weeks. Can it?
So a bit of on-line entertainment in case you become in need of an excuse to keep you from throttling the in-law(s)/kid(s)/partner(s) during the coming days.
Walkingforum.co.uk has been around for a little while and has a thriving on-line community. True there are a number of other forums used by those of us getting our outdoor chat and information on-line. But none, as far as I'm aware, specifically geared to walking.
Sam Haraldson over at Ultralight Backpacking, Wilderness Trekking, Outdoor Adventure (Wow - snappy title) is a bit keen on ultralight backpacking, US style. His site is full of goodies to explore. And a blog as well. One I’ll be working through over coming days.
By some weird synchronicity I found myself earlier this evening reading a familiar phrase casually tossed into my day by MagicMan himself, Alan Sloman. 'Skull cinema' - now where had I read that before?
Google pointed me all over the net, even suggesting one source to be Stephen King. But it was this piece from The Straggler - The Road To Wisdom (ignore the 'Install Chinese language' offer - its a legitimate site) that finally reminded me of the phrase originator, John Hillaby - writer and (compulsive?) long distance walker. Not necessarily the first LeJoG challenger, but his "Journey Through Britain" is surely the first to put the journey down in print, for a modern audience to share.
Sadly John is no longer with us, but the book remains a true classic, as is much of his other work. The Straggler reminded me of an under thought that's been skipping around my mind since the springtime. How far can you walk in a day? Or more to the point, at what point does it cease to Be Fun and become A Chore?
I'll spend some wet weather time indoors with The Straggler articles if this is typical of the quality of work available.
And if the sun does happen to shamefacedly pop out. Well there's a little local walk I've been eyeing for sometime. Say about 30+ miles. Which might just beckon me along its route, if conditions are right, and the fact it follows a floodplain isn’t the deterrent it sounds.
Finally, looking back at the LeJoG topic, LoneWalker's Blog is considering the same subject. Again a blog within a site full of backpacking and walking information.
Whatever the weather, have a good one. And let's all try to have it outdoors.Labels: blog media, Fitness, Gear, New Forest, walks
Sunday, July 6
Nordic Walking USA
One of the enjoyable benefits of this Blogging malarkey is getting feedback & following up other people's experience of outdoor affairs.
So thanks to Claire for her view on mixed format shows from the USA, which in turn led me on to one of her blogs, Nordic Walking USA, to explore how this activity is developing.
A further spin-off is the chance to feedback the specialist information to one of my show contacts and assist their own plans to to improve their on-line activity.
Wins all round!Labels: Fitness
Saturday, May 24
Mad, Bad & Good To Go
I spotted a BBC news item earlier today trailing the forthcoming BBC2 SpringWatch programme. One theme discussed was the beneficial effects of nature. With personal insight from one of SW's presenters, Bill Oddie, a self confessed sufferer with clinical depression.
This hearkens back to a regular theme mentioned here in the past praising regular activity outdoors as a simple and rapid pick-me-up for mental health improvement. And searching for that reference I spotted it was about the same time last year that I posted on this subject.
Oh dear - should I worry?
Perhaps its because I feel much in need of recharge myself after some difficult work pressures over the last few weeks (Hence the erratic posting - sitting in front of a keyboard for relaxation hasn't really been much of a pleasure recently)
Then there's been the steady stream of ad hoc visitors at home. All usually welcome, but not one after the other like the typical early morning bus to work.
Normally either of these is not a problem. But this Bank Holiday weekend I just feel like pulling up the drawbridge and repelling all boarders (says he mixing his metaphors)
I'd already decided, in light of Ian Fleming's 100th birthday anniversary (huh- how does that work then?) and a passing acquaintance with the film version of his creation James Bond 007, that I'd read through the whole series of Bond books in their published sequence. An idea arising from recent press articles about the man and the depiction of his work on film. For Bond, on film, is not the same as Bond the book character. (Why do films seem to screw up a good plot so very easily?) And as for the plot lines - typically mangled to hell it appears (I read Octopussy during the week - a 30 page short story, and little to do with Bond, except as a catalyst; And definitely nothing about world domination!)
Fleming wrote each new book to lead on from the previous, making for one long story across the books as a whole. It's a great way to approach an author's work if you find the material enjoyable, especially if you read as quickly as myself.
I first tried this a few years ago with the C.P.Snow series "Strangers & Brothers", about 13 books I recall. Trying to remember the total brings to mind pleasant memories of a trip to Hay-On Wye, the UK second-hand book capital, tracking down cheap pulp versions of each edition.
Closer to home I have scoured the local charity shops to find missing items, occasionally turning to E-Bay, or Amazon's excellent used section. For it's often the early part of the series that proves more difficult to find with smaller print runs when the author was less well known.
These days, having the benefit of on-line Library Search & Reservation facilities across three organisations, I can usually line up the books in advance, with only the cost of the reservation fee. True the thrill of the chase may be gone, but with much less cost. And there is also the consideration of what do to with the books once read. My expanding personal library is stored insecurely in large boxes, and as a result the attic floor groans alarmingly at times.
Its been said that "the pen is mightier than the sword" Not quite what was in mind if one night the straining attic floor was to give way, depositing its load onto me below. Peacefully asleep.
Which really is where I should be soon, to recharge my physical battery in preparation for some decent outdoor walkabouts, despite today's blustery south coast winds but unexpected warmth.
There you go.... TV, Health, Film, Education... and even a bit on the Weather at the end.
Where else could you get such a rich variety and still have the option of ignoring it all
;-) Labels: books, Fitness, Mental Health, nature
Monday, March 10
How to walk uphill?
I spotted a whimsical thread recently on the uk.rec.walking newsgroup referring to a Daily Telegraph piece "Science of the bleedin' obvious - It's easier to climb in zigzags"
Taking a quick look, I nodded sagely at the astounding conclusion that "people can use less energy by moving up and down steep slopes in a complicated motion known as zigzagging", smiled at the futility. And then moved on.
A little later I realised something about the new report was niggling away in a corner of my mind. Whilst the root source was unavailable, a précis of the piece provided further detail (and left me thankful that the full report wasn't something I felt obliged to work my way through)
Undoubtedly the conclusion is valid, but more importantly its one that any trainee hill walker quickly learns through painful experiment.
But still that niggle remained, until it dawned on me that I can't recall any of the outdoor books fully explaining the real trick to walking uphill. Well at least to do it with least effort and maximum effect. Lots of examples, but no clear explanation.
So gather closer O Initiate to be introduced to the wonderful principle of Cadence.
Now if you've just followed that last link, you may be mystified as to what on earth I'm talking about. And quite right too. After all, as any Initiate understands the truth is not easily revealed, but needs to be revealed often via a path of self-awareness.
So try this definition of Cadence to see if the mists of confusion clear. What still none the wiser?
Simply put Cadence is the method of keeping an even pace as you walk. You could measure it by paces per minute. Or energy exertion i.e. how fast/sweaty you feel as you move. Some like to use a heartbeat monitor to regulate the activity. But the trick is all in pace length.
Walking downhill, on good ground, you will naturally extend the length of your stride. And uphill the reverse is true. So to gain maximum benefit the key is to keep the walking pace the same (i.e. the number of paces per minute) but to change your stride pattern to match the ground you are covering. By doing this the majority of physical effort actually expended remains largely constant dependant on your physical fitness. And that last point is the problem.
Walking uphill try to keep your pace rate stable, shortening each step to keep that pace regular. But unless you are supremely mountain fit you'll soon find that the effect of your maintaining your pace count usually results in increasingly short steps and eventually very limited progress forward.
It's usually at that point that pace counting gets dropped and a switch over to an increased use of thigh muscles and arm swinging comes into play. And with it an increase in energy expenditure. And that ends up with an outbreak of sweating, something we all have experienced.
Personally my first few days newly out on the hills seem to require a couple of hours sweating profusely until my body works out what is being expected of it, and then starts to kick in with the extra muscle growth as compensation. Which is why the level of fitness I enjoy at the end of a trip is one of many benefits. But unfortunately one difficult to maintain without a regular exposure to the same sort of physical challenge.
But assuming you have the right level of physical fitness, remember the principle of Cadence for an easier ascent.
After all why do you think that the slow but steady Nepalese porter on an expedition will always arrive at camp ahead of the rushing trekker, once the latter has expended their energy excess?
And that observation you will find spread throughout much outdoor literature.
Well done O ex-Initiate (don't forget to pick up a pass certificate on your way out of the cave)
Homework for next time - practise the the 'Use of Will Power' to 'Get Up That Bloody Big Hill'. Swearing optional.
Another one for the FAQ I think.
Labels: Backpacking Advice, Fitness
Wednesday, January 9
Walking & Camping plans for 2008? Mr Kipling says "thats an exceedingly good ...."
Got those plans for your outdoor fun sorted yet?
Or maybe you are one of those people who prefer to work on a less formal approach with some vague thoughts and ideas. They're rattling around your brain at present, waiting to settle into something more concrete.
There's a number of people at this time of year who are busily trying to stick to their new resolutions. In some cases they can seem so vague as to be prone to failure. "Walk 12,000 miles this year"? So how do you know/care about that target after 3 months. Is it 500 or 2,500 miles down then. And if so why stick it - there's always next year after all.
I tend more towards the informal approach personally, but with some lessons used regularly in my day-life (that so-called real existence - bah!) That would be Lessons That Work mind you.
To quote the source usually associated with this simple advice welcome to Rudyard Kipling (the old cake maker himself - not), whose words still stand the test of time and common sense:
"I keep six honest serving-men
(They taught me all I knew);
Their names are What and Why and When
And How and Where and Who"
I know RK is more than a little non PC these days due to the "empire/colonial Englishman abroad" approach to the world of his writings. And such gems as Soudan Expeditionary Force can be hard to fathom per se these days. A man of his times most definitely. However there is a school of thought that believes his work may be read as a deliberate satire warning of the dangers of colonialism and the oppression of native nations. And he was for a time the youngest receiver of the Nobel Prize for literature.
Back to the message anyhow. It's a tenet commonly to be found in the field of journalism, and a litmus test I apply when reading/listening to news reports these days when assessing their ability to report. That is to inform. Rather than, as is increasingly more the case, to 'entertain' with only a few parts of a factual story.
Lets break the advice down to see how it can be used to get help:
What
At present this could be very clear, possibly due to circumstance (complete the TGO Challenge following selection pre Xmas - oops sorry Bob/Andy, or finally get that LEJoG trip going) Or possibly quite nebulous "Get out more wildcamping in '08"
Whichever it is, perhaps its time to make a wish list. Now. And Keep it in your wallet/purse so you can add/change it over the coming weeks as ideas present themselves.
Why
Self evident really to most readers of this site. But it does sometime pay to consider what you actually want to get from it. And that doesn't always mean climbing the highest point, or walking for miles.
Simply being outdoors will suffice for some folk.
When
Easier stuff now. For most of us this will be the warmer months, despite the reports coming back on wildcamping trips over the Xmas period. But that season can be very short if the real planning doesn't get going until June, or waits until after that summer holiday.
How
Not usually a problem, and normally related to transport logistics. But for a change why not try a different way of getting there, and possibly freeing up your mind to other route making opportunities as a result?
Or how about just walking out of that front door and start the trip straight away?
Where
Well I know where I want to go. You've your own choices.
But I do try to include one new location - some form of change/new challenge. And then there's always at least one old favourite in there as well. A return to past pleasures.
Who
If you plan to have company now is the time, whilst spirits seem as low as January finances, to offer some hope to others by getting them on board with your plans. Or perhaps you can fit in with their ideas?
Just some thoughts to play with. Hopefully provocative enough to stir the creative juices.
As I said earlier I'm quite informal in these things. Mostly. But without the self delivered promise of, say, that June week wildcamping in the Lakes, these long dark nights can drag. And what better way to shorten them with some early planning.
But let's not forget the ad-hoc trips which spring from sudden opportunity, and despite fore planning can often turn out to be the most enjoyable of all.
Something to do with stolen fruit being the sweetest perhaps?
Whatever your ideas, best of luck with them. No scratch that last wish. The best of 'working out how to get out into the outdoors to do it for yourself'. Whatever that may be for you.Labels: Fitness, Miscellaneous, walks
Monday, December 17
Sustrans National Lottery win - Pig in a Poke?
Lacking comment elsewhere within the UK outdoor blogging community (unless I've overlooked someone) here's my personal thoughts on the award last week of £50 million to Sustrans’ Connect2 project from the Big Lottery Fund to invest in walking and cycling UK-wide.
When the award was initially announced my reaction was - so what's that to me? I've been aware of Sustrans for some time now, but associated the group mostly with cycle routes. Not a huge interest of mine, but it sounded like a positive move - money to help with access to the great outdoors.
Now with anything related to the "National Lottery" my main reaction to that these days is by now pretty negative.
Why when I attempt to buy my Saturday paper/smokes do I somehow end up queueing behind a string of punters intent on buying multiple combinations of Lottery tickets and Lottery scratch cards - does anyone besides myself actually buy goods in a newsagents these days?
Furthermore I'm not against gambling per se. Indeed last week saw me spending sometime in the local casino during an evening's entertainment (And there's plenty I could write on the plain evidence of the dissociation of the ardent gambler from the surroundings and people around them. A very scary and extreme phenomena to observe for an occasional punter like myself)
But as for the national lottery being a "good" bet - hardly good odds to be honest, but back to the plot....
Sustrans successful bid was "to build a national network of cycle and walking routes". A laudable aim.
And then came news of certain alleged shenanigans with the voting. Oh right. What a surprise. Hasn't the recent rash of TV voting scams really already made the point on this. And frankly if I was involved with a charity seeking a donation of this magnitude I would make darned sure all my friends, relations, passers-by etc etc etc voted for my team using whatever means were provided by the donating organisation. But it seems that this has upset some folk as to the fairness of it all.
But despite the controversy let's stand back and look at all the candidates up for the cash - Eden Project: The Edge; Sherwood: The Living Legend; Black Country Urban Park; Sustrans: Connect2;
Three out of the four offering locally based projects.
And the winner - well that would be the only one with a nationally based project. Small wonder they received more votes really bearing in mind the increased number of people that their project could potentially influence.
So to the delivery plans of the winners to see just how this affects my outdoors access. After a little more digging into the detail behind Sustrans plans I must admit I'm still very unclear on quite what they intend to deliver. No great projects - just lots of joining up bits. And the more I look into the local initiatives, the more unsettling they become being aimed at semi-urban routes, possibly intending to influence some of the local population to walk/cycle to their destinations. But I'd guess more aimed at those lardy arses who think it fine in principle but won't bother to use the facilities anyway, save for an occasional trip with the kids at the height of summer.
I'm trying hard not to get too scathing here after looking at the local project nearest to me. For it proposes provision of a cycleway from a rural area with a very small population, but potentially many airport workers, into the built up areas of Bournemouth. But there's a few drawbacks here.
Firstly - the route already exists on the ground, mostly over existing country back roads, and a bridge across the River Stour. In fact I cycled the route over ten years ago. So its not about provision of anything new. Just upgraded somewhere I'd assume.
Secondly if the route is upgraded it has the potential to increased cycle traffic along paths currently trod mostly by the dog walking brigade, and at one pinch point a number of fishermen. No potential for an increase in conflicting usage here then - wandering dogs, men with expensive fishing gear lying the ground, and cyclists at an increased speed.
Thirdly, the main beneficiary should be the airport workers. But frankly I'd be surprised if many of those not already using the route would choose to do so after its been upgraded (whatever that entails)
And finally - this is not to cover the whole route indicated on the map - but just that piece marked in red i.e. the pinch point referred to earlier. I'd guess that means taking a sometimes narrow and muddy riverside walk, aka locally as a peaceful summertime stroll. And creating a cycle track instead. Great news.
I'd love to be more objective here. To base my view on fact and details. But the plans are really rather sketchy at best, and also carry a couple of interesting warnings as to "the far reaching nature of the scheme" and "not a promise where the route will go".
Huh? So what was the money budgeted for in the £50 million bid then?
In fairness I'll leave this for the present until more detail arises once this project starts on the ground.
But as a walker I fear perhaps the Sustrans bid doesn't really represent much of importance to me and may in fact deter me from using this particular area in the future.
More to come on this I'm sure. Labels: Fitness, Miscellaneous, walks
Sunday, October 28
TV: When Hell Freezes
No, not the title of the Eagles latest offering but another film/documentary from Channel 4 to be screened during prime time this coming Monday (21:00 - 22:35)
Following on after Joe Simpson's 'Beckoning Silence' last week tomorrow's programme relates Douglas Mawson's 1912 Antarctic expedition (or more relevantly the failure of it) that resulted in his 315-mile trek sans his original companions, and most of the food.
I can't presently find out if there's any more of these daring-do tales to come, but the subject matter so far is well chosen, and if Simpson's offering is anything to go by, well put together.
Aren't we outdoorsy folk being spoilt at presentLabels: Fitness, Miscellaneous
Tuesday, October 23
Joe Simpson on Surviving Till 40
No apologies for a follow up the JS piece to mention another of his on-line articles.
The git may be a year younger than me, but I'd bet I don't make nearly as many creaking noises as Mr S when I walk. And for me that is despite far too many years abusing motorcycles in some pretty foul weather/places.
That's mostly astride the bike concerned; Sometimes beneath it;
Ho hum. Never forget how to grow old. Rather disgracefully.Labels: books, Fitness, Miscellaneous
Monday, August 6
Me and my big mouth
Sod's Law will have its little joke, following my spirit rendition about Fitness a few days ago.
A niggling lower back pain has proved a stubborn little distraction over the past week, and finally decided to take up semi-permanent residency. And now I need to think about its presence there's a realisation that it has been twinging for two or maybe even three weeks.
Hhmmm - post Scotland? But like most of these slowly developing complaints (and believe me I complain about things like this!) I can't put my finger on any particular mishap or trigger.
So its off to the chiro once more, and highly likely I'm now a a no show at the upcoming UK Outdoors Bloggers Welsh Meet this weekend.
Curses.
And I recall that the oh so nice Alan Sloman was bringing me my weight in beer. I wonder if he recalls Davenports esteemed service? Now when did that slide quietly out of contemporary life?Labels: Fitness, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Wednesday, August 1
The Butcher's Dog or Fit For Nothing?
Over the last couple of months I've had an few thoughts bouncing around at the back of my brain concerning fitness and its relevance to hill walking and backpacking. There's a lot of tosh, especially in mens magazines, about the 'right' level of physical ability and how to achieve or improve the level each individual may require for their particular lifestyle.
So a timely programme from BBC Radio 4 "Am I Normal" on the very subject, available via the BBC Listen Again service. The second series is picking up from the first, giving a pragmatic view of many myths around medicine and human normality. And bursting a few preconceptions along the way
And hey - guess what? No-one can really agree how to easily measure an individual's fitness level (without a bank of gym/lab based tests) or indeed what exercise regime is necessary to help an individual become 'fit'.
Naturally I've got a few ideas of mine own.
I thought a definition of the term 'Fitness' would be a good starting point but surprisingly a clear definition, or at least one that doesn't include the word 'Fit' is difficult to nail down. This is typical........
Fitness - 'Good health or physical condition, especially as the result of exercise and proper nutrition'
My old fallback Wikipedia has a slightly fuller discussion including this telling phrase "This is often presented in textbooks as a triangle which represent physical, emotional, and mental fitness. Hence, one may be physically fit but may still suffer from a mental illness or have emotional problems. The "ideal triangle" is balanced in all areas"
Hmm - that's a lot more than the usual view that fitness relates to an ability to run a marathon or swim a couple of miles? Only one side of the triangle surely?
Out walking a good level of physical ability is relevant to the route, the geographical terrain and the duration of the exercise. Hence a recovering heart attack victim may find a short walk along a canal side national trail ideal, but not a steep haul to a peak straight up from the valley floor!
So how does that affect what we do?
I'd rate my own level of fitness as "good", but not great. That is I can walk several miles over farmland tracks without needing to stop for more than an occasional rest. More to break a trip up really. I don't pant when walking, and I can carry a reasonable weight as necessary.
I walk regularly throughout the winter months, but when it comes to my first backpacking trip to the hills each year I have one simple rule that I stick with - "Take it easy, and listen to the body"
Its not about how fast I move, or how much ground is covered. Its the fact that I can safely pass over the fellside, at an easy pace, without listening to blood pounding in my ears and with my heart feeling like its trying to come through my chest. If that's the case I'm going too fast or the terrain is not right for my level of physical activity (and that's not a situation I've yet to come across)
The first 1/2 hour or so climbing up the ascent is always a trial, no matter what time of year, and how used to it I am. And I expect to sweat. A lot. But a bit like a runner getting into their stride, once that is over and the body responding to the physical effort I tend to settle down. The first couple of days on a trip the aches and pains can make movement early in the day quite errr .....interesting, but its never so painful that it affects my ability to move and walk safely. And the body naturally detoxs itself over the first few days of concerted physical activity and plenty of food/water for refuelling along the way.
So in my case fitness is the ability of my body to safely perform the physical activity required of it.
As the summer continues my walking speed and my recovery ability picks up (I'm getting 'fitter'), my body naturally responding to the physical stimulation and building additional muscle and sinew to cope with the specific physical challenges I have set it. The key word here - naturally.
So how to get hill fit? Easy. Walk. Out on the hills if possible, or at least start using the stairs. You've got to start somewhere. And do it regularly. That's the key.
Cycling, swimming, running or even a gym all help with cardio vascular fitness but the essential method of getting fitter to walk, is ..... well just to walk. A lot.
I used to run regularly especially using a lot of hill work besides the local seafront, but perversely I found this created an over dependence on those muscles groups required for running. And though my CV was excellent I found increasing problems performing other exercise due to this over specialisation. More prone for instance to ankle and calf muscle injury. Often ending in physio treatment.
So to the other elements of fitness.
I've not seen much in the outdoor mags about this, but without will power, the intent to reach a selected point, that special sense of purpose, you probably won't even manage to get out of the car in the car park.
Many is the time I've felt that I needed to stop, only to look at the map and decide that the rest stop a few miles further on looked attractive, and within minutes of deciding to continue my fitness level and general spirits felt improved. The mind can be a dirty little trickster and it will naturally try for the easy option where possible. Again walking with or without a pack (but regularly) has taught me recognise when I really am finished for the day, or just letting my mind get one over on me (Remember the phrase 'Mind Over Matter'?)
But beware over overriding all the signals from the mind and body. The other side of the coin is knowing when enough is enough for the day.
And finally - enjoy the trip. If you're fretting about the weather, whether sun or rain. If its no longer fun, but a physical and mind numbing trial of stamina. Time to plan a finish.
The hill will always be there another day. It's mostly useful if you can say the same about yourself.
So next time some gym fit hero tells you about their 25 mile multi peak bagging day, that started and finished in the dark, and as they collapse into the chair before you, time to ask the killer question. And why did you enjoy it?
I reckon that's my triangle in place.
And if you want to think more about how to put that route plan together and make the best of your days out, Paul has some excellent observations over on Wilderness WalesLabels: Fitness, Mental Health, Trip Planning
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Family issues had meant that this was my first wildcamping trip this year.
Frustrating really as my exercise regime during the last few years had really benefitted my walking pace & pack carrying stamina.
Ho hum. Pay it forward, never a false economy in these, my advancing years.
But leaving it this late in the year meant that I wasn't over optimistic of stringing together many nights on the tops.
After the usual dreary drive across from Dorset, and a little exploratory reconnaissance, I loaded up at the car park west of Merrivale (GR 540 750)
A typically dreary start, with intermittent rain throughout the day.
A wander down to Vixen Tor (GR 541 742) for a looksee at just what "private land" offers.
Ringed by barbwire (satisfyingly broken down in places) it presumes to be a jealously guarded spot mimicking some frontline battle line.
Which for many it still remains - being an early sign of things to come.
I originally mentioned it back in 2007 and 17 years later it remains deeply symbolic of the expanding conflict between private ownership and public access.
And to be honest, really not that great a spot to safeguard from the marauding hordes of drooling ramblers milling around the spot.
Well not really.
But at least the welcoming sign made me smile - best of luck enforcing!
Welcome to Vixen Tor
Onwards to tick off Feather Tor (534 741) .....
..
Feather Tor
....and its view onto Heckwood Tor (537 738) the next waypoint .....
Heckwood Tor
....where there was a suitably atmospheric glimpse of Great Mis Tor in the distance, a favourite overnight spot of mine with panoramic views down to the sea beyond Plymouth.
The leat and cross discovered along the way made a pleasant photo opportunity, initially suggesting a future wildcamping spot for a long hot sunny day. But it quickly became clear that this was a focal point for walkers in the area. Quickly crossed off my list - I prefer more solitary resting spots.
Pew TorLabels: dartmoor, Fitness, National Park, right to roam, vixen tor, wild camping
Hengistbury Head & Fi(a)tness Trends
As promised earlier (and following some mild reflection \ toning down) where did all the Nordic Walkers come from so suddenly? And more to the point, what do some of them hope to achieve? (The clue was in the photo - walking poles and cafe seat BTW)
Saturday's duties took me into the Christchurch area. So for a change I took a walk out over Hengistbury Head, along Mudeford Sandspit, before tracing a route along the shore of Christchurch Harbour and back to the car.
Its not a long trip, less than 5 miles even taking the longer alternatives. However it manages to include a short but steep ascent & some superb coastal views.
To the east is The Needles Lighthouse drawing the eye beyond to the Isle of Wight.
And turning westwards a sweep across Bournemouth Bay. Swanage in the far distance, with the dowdy sprawl of the Poole/Bournemouth conurbation as one's gaze tracks the beach back towards your position.
Quickly turning to the north what remains of the Dorset heathland these days, along with the New Forest in the distance, is laid out before your feet. Twinkling distant in today's sunlight are the Rivers Stour & Avon, their floodplain meanderings finally joining up as they reach Christchurch, its Priory clearly silhouetted against the town.
Sounds idyllic doesn't it? A pity then the local council charge prohibitive amounts to use the car park. But despite that the area this Saturday morning was teeming with people, dogs, kids etc etc.
Well I should have known really. Its not a place to come for a quiet walk, not unless there's a gale lashing rain inland from the English Channel. Which for some reason tends to deter some people.
Not so your humble scribe. Although it has the dubious pleasure of being one of the few places where I had a (well fitted) cap ripped from my head and discarded some 50m away. Mind you it was a bit gusty that day - and I did seem to be the only one on the headland tasting salty raindrops. The rain actually wind sped spray spat up from the sea some 300m distant at the foot of the cliff 30+m below.
But that's another tale.
As usual I parked in one of the side streets to avoid the parking charge & avoid the predatory Traffic Wardens that roam the area. As I walked towards the headland track contouring the coastline the unexpected drone of bagpipes was wafted on the stiff breeze.
Well I say wafted.
Common to most bagpipe enthusiasts, interested in remaining on good terms with their neighbours, the only practice sites seem to be far out in the wilds as the skirl(?) of the pipes does have a tendency to carry some considerable distance.
Especially true today. Turning a corner the hedgerow on my right dropped away to reveal two of the buggers playing a spirited duet (whilst trying not to look as if they were up to no good in the bushes)
They needn't have worried - their playing was accomplished. Although quite what a brace of pipers were doing here on the south coast was another question entirely. Particularly when dressed in full Highland Regalia.
Nearing the Head the amount people increased - and with it an increasing number of those carrying/using walking poles. At first I thought nothing of it. That is until I noticed the strange outdoor regalia being worn. Trainers, jeans, tracksuits. It felt like a poorly funded fashion show. But the poles were clearly in pristine condition sporting brand names I'd not previously come across before.
And so it continued as I strode purposefully up to the OS trig point on the Head itself.
Onwards across the headland, wind blowing hard as usual, to eventually descend the far side, a spur of the moment decision made to head for the cafe on Mudeford Spit.
Note I've carefully not mentioned the cafe's name, or provided a link. If you're in this area use the Hungry Hiker next to the car park, which has a good reputation. Avoid the Spit's cafe unless you happen to like slow service, costly but poor quality food & the dubious distinction of queuing for a table whilst staring out over all the empty spaces!
This was the first (and last) time my business will be remitted at said establishment. A pity as its sister premises on Christchurch Quay is a long time & favourite haunt of mine, although recent visits suggest a subtle drop in ambiance & service.
Sitting in the cafe and awaiting my order, my attention was again drawn to the frequency of fellow diners with nice shiny walking poles leaning haphazardly by their tables.
It seems that Nordic Walking as a fitness regime has hit this area big time. Quite how or why this has happened remains a mystery to me.
Now please don't take my skepticism as a negative feeling. I'm all for anything that gets people outdoors and enjoying the landscape. But judging by the amount of food being consumed today's exercise benefit was for fast being negated by a mass intake of carbs, fats & sugary substances.
As I pushed away my half eaten meal (a salad - naturally) I made for the exit and a more solitary route back to avoid the excess of humanity working hard at working hard. But I couldn't help but wonder as I passed the "Noddy Train" stop, its lengthening queue of people awaiting the 5 minute ride back to the car park, just how many of the Stick Brigade would take that option for their return journey. Full bellies complaining at the thought of the reasonably short walk back.
Maybe I was right.
My route back followed the edge of the harbour. A quiet & solitary amble with not a soul met along the way until I neared the tarmac track to exit the headland. And with it the inevitable bottleneck of people, sticks & wandering dogs.
Now I remember why I avoid this area like a plague during the summer months; And most of the Winter ones as well.
A good walking route, like a good wine, is to be enjoyed & savoured for inner contentment. And regrettably the well intentioned aims to make this area into a 'Visitor Attraction' has instead created a strange sort of venue.
My tip - it can be an enjoyable walk with superb veiws. But go when the weather is foul & the Stick People are more likely to stay away.
Labels: Fitness, New Forest, walks
Thursday, August 21
aRoundabout - outdoor news and views (Aug 22)
Blimey, Bank Holiday weekend looming up already. Was that summer already? At least no one seems to be worrying about the impending weather. Well it can’t really be much worse than what we've had over recent weeks. Can it?
So a bit of on-line entertainment in case you become in need of an excuse to keep you from throttling the in-law(s)/kid(s)/partner(s) during the coming days.
Walkingforum.co.uk has been around for a little while and has a thriving on-line community. True there are a number of other forums used by those of us getting our outdoor chat and information on-line. But none, as far as I'm aware, specifically geared to walking.
Sam Haraldson over at Ultralight Backpacking, Wilderness Trekking, Outdoor Adventure (Wow - snappy title) is a bit keen on ultralight backpacking, US style. His site is full of goodies to explore. And a blog as well. One I’ll be working through over coming days.
By some weird synchronicity I found myself earlier this evening reading a familiar phrase casually tossed into my day by MagicMan himself, Alan Sloman. 'Skull cinema' - now where had I read that before?
Google pointed me all over the net, even suggesting one source to be Stephen King. But it was this piece from The Straggler - The Road To Wisdom (ignore the 'Install Chinese language' offer - its a legitimate site) that finally reminded me of the phrase originator, John Hillaby - writer and (compulsive?) long distance walker. Not necessarily the first LeJoG challenger, but his "Journey Through Britain" is surely the first to put the journey down in print, for a modern audience to share.
Sadly John is no longer with us, but the book remains a true classic, as is much of his other work. The Straggler reminded me of an under thought that's been skipping around my mind since the springtime. How far can you walk in a day? Or more to the point, at what point does it cease to Be Fun and become A Chore?
I'll spend some wet weather time indoors with The Straggler articles if this is typical of the quality of work available.
And if the sun does happen to shamefacedly pop out. Well there's a little local walk I've been eyeing for sometime. Say about 30+ miles. Which might just beckon me along its route, if conditions are right, and the fact it follows a floodplain isn’t the deterrent it sounds.
Finally, looking back at the LeJoG topic, LoneWalker's Blog is considering the same subject. Again a blog within a site full of backpacking and walking information.
Whatever the weather, have a good one. And let's all try to have it outdoors.Labels: blog media, Fitness, Gear, New Forest, walks
Sunday, July 6
Nordic Walking USA
One of the enjoyable benefits of this Blogging malarkey is getting feedback & following up other people's experience of outdoor affairs.
So thanks to Claire for her view on mixed format shows from the USA, which in turn led me on to one of her blogs, Nordic Walking USA, to explore how this activity is developing.
A further spin-off is the chance to feedback the specialist information to one of my show contacts and assist their own plans to to improve their on-line activity.
Wins all round!Labels: Fitness
Saturday, May 24
Mad, Bad & Good To Go
I spotted a BBC news item earlier today trailing the forthcoming BBC2 SpringWatch programme. One theme discussed was the beneficial effects of nature. With personal insight from one of SW's presenters, Bill Oddie, a self confessed sufferer with clinical depression.
This hearkens back to a regular theme mentioned here in the past praising regular activity outdoors as a simple and rapid pick-me-up for mental health improvement. And searching for that reference I spotted it was about the same time last year that I posted on this subject.
Oh dear - should I worry?
Perhaps its because I feel much in need of recharge myself after some difficult work pressures over the last few weeks (Hence the erratic posting - sitting in front of a keyboard for relaxation hasn't really been much of a pleasure recently)
Then there's been the steady stream of ad hoc visitors at home. All usually welcome, but not one after the other like the typical early morning bus to work.
Normally either of these is not a problem. But this Bank Holiday weekend I just feel like pulling up the drawbridge and repelling all boarders (says he mixing his metaphors)
I'd already decided, in light of Ian Fleming's 100th birthday anniversary (huh- how does that work then?) and a passing acquaintance with the film version of his creation James Bond 007, that I'd read through the whole series of Bond books in their published sequence. An idea arising from recent press articles about the man and the depiction of his work on film. For Bond, on film, is not the same as Bond the book character. (Why do films seem to screw up a good plot so very easily?) And as for the plot lines - typically mangled to hell it appears (I read Octopussy during the week - a 30 page short story, and little to do with Bond, except as a catalyst; And definitely nothing about world domination!)
Fleming wrote each new book to lead on from the previous, making for one long story across the books as a whole. It's a great way to approach an author's work if you find the material enjoyable, especially if you read as quickly as myself.
I first tried this a few years ago with the C.P.Snow series "Strangers & Brothers", about 13 books I recall. Trying to remember the total brings to mind pleasant memories of a trip to Hay-On Wye, the UK second-hand book capital, tracking down cheap pulp versions of each edition.
Closer to home I have scoured the local charity shops to find missing items, occasionally turning to E-Bay, or Amazon's excellent used section. For it's often the early part of the series that proves more difficult to find with smaller print runs when the author was less well known.
These days, having the benefit of on-line Library Search & Reservation facilities across three organisations, I can usually line up the books in advance, with only the cost of the reservation fee. True the thrill of the chase may be gone, but with much less cost. And there is also the consideration of what do to with the books once read. My expanding personal library is stored insecurely in large boxes, and as a result the attic floor groans alarmingly at times.
Its been said that "the pen is mightier than the sword" Not quite what was in mind if one night the straining attic floor was to give way, depositing its load onto me below. Peacefully asleep.
Which really is where I should be soon, to recharge my physical battery in preparation for some decent outdoor walkabouts, despite today's blustery south coast winds but unexpected warmth.
There you go.... TV, Health, Film, Education... and even a bit on the Weather at the end.
Where else could you get such a rich variety and still have the option of ignoring it all
;-) Labels: books, Fitness, Mental Health, nature
Monday, March 10
How to walk uphill?
I spotted a whimsical thread recently on the uk.rec.walking newsgroup referring to a Daily Telegraph piece "Science of the bleedin' obvious - It's easier to climb in zigzags"
Taking a quick look, I nodded sagely at the astounding conclusion that "people can use less energy by moving up and down steep slopes in a complicated motion known as zigzagging", smiled at the futility. And then moved on.
A little later I realised something about the new report was niggling away in a corner of my mind. Whilst the root source was unavailable, a précis of the piece provided further detail (and left me thankful that the full report wasn't something I felt obliged to work my way through)
Undoubtedly the conclusion is valid, but more importantly its one that any trainee hill walker quickly learns through painful experiment.
But still that niggle remained, until it dawned on me that I can't recall any of the outdoor books fully explaining the real trick to walking uphill. Well at least to do it with least effort and maximum effect. Lots of examples, but no clear explanation.
So gather closer O Initiate to be introduced to the wonderful principle of Cadence.
Now if you've just followed that last link, you may be mystified as to what on earth I'm talking about. And quite right too. After all, as any Initiate understands the truth is not easily revealed, but needs to be revealed often via a path of self-awareness.
So try this definition of Cadence to see if the mists of confusion clear. What still none the wiser?
Simply put Cadence is the method of keeping an even pace as you walk. You could measure it by paces per minute. Or energy exertion i.e. how fast/sweaty you feel as you move. Some like to use a heartbeat monitor to regulate the activity. But the trick is all in pace length.
Walking downhill, on good ground, you will naturally extend the length of your stride. And uphill the reverse is true. So to gain maximum benefit the key is to keep the walking pace the same (i.e. the number of paces per minute) but to change your stride pattern to match the ground you are covering. By doing this the majority of physical effort actually expended remains largely constant dependant on your physical fitness. And that last point is the problem.
Walking uphill try to keep your pace rate stable, shortening each step to keep that pace regular. But unless you are supremely mountain fit you'll soon find that the effect of your maintaining your pace count usually results in increasingly short steps and eventually very limited progress forward.
It's usually at that point that pace counting gets dropped and a switch over to an increased use of thigh muscles and arm swinging comes into play. And with it an increase in energy expenditure. And that ends up with an outbreak of sweating, something we all have experienced.
Personally my first few days newly out on the hills seem to require a couple of hours sweating profusely until my body works out what is being expected of it, and then starts to kick in with the extra muscle growth as compensation. Which is why the level of fitness I enjoy at the end of a trip is one of many benefits. But unfortunately one difficult to maintain without a regular exposure to the same sort of physical challenge.
But assuming you have the right level of physical fitness, remember the principle of Cadence for an easier ascent.
After all why do you think that the slow but steady Nepalese porter on an expedition will always arrive at camp ahead of the rushing trekker, once the latter has expended their energy excess?
And that observation you will find spread throughout much outdoor literature.
Well done O ex-Initiate (don't forget to pick up a pass certificate on your way out of the cave)
Homework for next time - practise the the 'Use of Will Power' to 'Get Up That Bloody Big Hill'. Swearing optional.
Another one for the FAQ I think.
Labels: Backpacking Advice, Fitness
Wednesday, January 9
Walking & Camping plans for 2008? Mr Kipling says "thats an exceedingly good ...."
Got those plans for your outdoor fun sorted yet?
Or maybe you are one of those people who prefer to work on a less formal approach with some vague thoughts and ideas. They're rattling around your brain at present, waiting to settle into something more concrete.
There's a number of people at this time of year who are busily trying to stick to their new resolutions. In some cases they can seem so vague as to be prone to failure. "Walk 12,000 miles this year"? So how do you know/care about that target after 3 months. Is it 500 or 2,500 miles down then. And if so why stick it - there's always next year after all.
I tend more towards the informal approach personally, but with some lessons used regularly in my day-life (that so-called real existence - bah!) That would be Lessons That Work mind you.
To quote the source usually associated with this simple advice welcome to Rudyard Kipling (the old cake maker himself - not), whose words still stand the test of time and common sense:
"I keep six honest serving-men
(They taught me all I knew);
Their names are What and Why and When
And How and Where and Who"
I know RK is more than a little non PC these days due to the "empire/colonial Englishman abroad" approach to the world of his writings. And such gems as Soudan Expeditionary Force can be hard to fathom per se these days. A man of his times most definitely. However there is a school of thought that believes his work may be read as a deliberate satire warning of the dangers of colonialism and the oppression of native nations. And he was for a time the youngest receiver of the Nobel Prize for literature.
Back to the message anyhow. It's a tenet commonly to be found in the field of journalism, and a litmus test I apply when reading/listening to news reports these days when assessing their ability to report. That is to inform. Rather than, as is increasingly more the case, to 'entertain' with only a few parts of a factual story.
Lets break the advice down to see how it can be used to get help:
What
At present this could be very clear, possibly due to circumstance (complete the TGO Challenge following selection pre Xmas - oops sorry Bob/Andy, or finally get that LEJoG trip going) Or possibly quite nebulous "Get out more wildcamping in '08"
Whichever it is, perhaps its time to make a wish list. Now. And Keep it in your wallet/purse so you can add/change it over the coming weeks as ideas present themselves.
Why
Self evident really to most readers of this site. But it does sometime pay to consider what you actually want to get from it. And that doesn't always mean climbing the highest point, or walking for miles.
Simply being outdoors will suffice for some folk.
When
Easier stuff now. For most of us this will be the warmer months, despite the reports coming back on wildcamping trips over the Xmas period. But that season can be very short if the real planning doesn't get going until June, or waits until after that summer holiday.
How
Not usually a problem, and normally related to transport logistics. But for a change why not try a different way of getting there, and possibly freeing up your mind to other route making opportunities as a result?
Or how about just walking out of that front door and start the trip straight away?
Where
Well I know where I want to go. You've your own choices.
But I do try to include one new location - some form of change/new challenge. And then there's always at least one old favourite in there as well. A return to past pleasures.
Who
If you plan to have company now is the time, whilst spirits seem as low as January finances, to offer some hope to others by getting them on board with your plans. Or perhaps you can fit in with their ideas?
Just some thoughts to play with. Hopefully provocative enough to stir the creative juices.
As I said earlier I'm quite informal in these things. Mostly. But without the self delivered promise of, say, that June week wildcamping in the Lakes, these long dark nights can drag. And what better way to shorten them with some early planning.
But let's not forget the ad-hoc trips which spring from sudden opportunity, and despite fore planning can often turn out to be the most enjoyable of all.
Something to do with stolen fruit being the sweetest perhaps?
Whatever your ideas, best of luck with them. No scratch that last wish. The best of 'working out how to get out into the outdoors to do it for yourself'. Whatever that may be for you.Labels: Fitness, Miscellaneous, walks
Monday, December 17
Sustrans National Lottery win - Pig in a Poke?
Lacking comment elsewhere within the UK outdoor blogging community (unless I've overlooked someone) here's my personal thoughts on the award last week of £50 million to Sustrans’ Connect2 project from the Big Lottery Fund to invest in walking and cycling UK-wide.
When the award was initially announced my reaction was - so what's that to me? I've been aware of Sustrans for some time now, but associated the group mostly with cycle routes. Not a huge interest of mine, but it sounded like a positive move - money to help with access to the great outdoors.
Now with anything related to the "National Lottery" my main reaction to that these days is by now pretty negative.
Why when I attempt to buy my Saturday paper/smokes do I somehow end up queueing behind a string of punters intent on buying multiple combinations of Lottery tickets and Lottery scratch cards - does anyone besides myself actually buy goods in a newsagents these days?
Furthermore I'm not against gambling per se. Indeed last week saw me spending sometime in the local casino during an evening's entertainment (And there's plenty I could write on the plain evidence of the dissociation of the ardent gambler from the surroundings and people around them. A very scary and extreme phenomena to observe for an occasional punter like myself)
But as for the national lottery being a "good" bet - hardly good odds to be honest, but back to the plot....
Sustrans successful bid was "to build a national network of cycle and walking routes". A laudable aim.
And then came news of certain alleged shenanigans with the voting. Oh right. What a surprise. Hasn't the recent rash of TV voting scams really already made the point on this. And frankly if I was involved with a charity seeking a donation of this magnitude I would make darned sure all my friends, relations, passers-by etc etc etc voted for my team using whatever means were provided by the donating organisation. But it seems that this has upset some folk as to the fairness of it all.
But despite the controversy let's stand back and look at all the candidates up for the cash - Eden Project: The Edge; Sherwood: The Living Legend; Black Country Urban Park; Sustrans: Connect2;
Three out of the four offering locally based projects.
And the winner - well that would be the only one with a nationally based project. Small wonder they received more votes really bearing in mind the increased number of people that their project could potentially influence.
So to the delivery plans of the winners to see just how this affects my outdoors access. After a little more digging into the detail behind Sustrans plans I must admit I'm still very unclear on quite what they intend to deliver. No great projects - just lots of joining up bits. And the more I look into the local initiatives, the more unsettling they become being aimed at semi-urban routes, possibly intending to influence some of the local population to walk/cycle to their destinations. But I'd guess more aimed at those lardy arses who think it fine in principle but won't bother to use the facilities anyway, save for an occasional trip with the kids at the height of summer.
I'm trying hard not to get too scathing here after looking at the local project nearest to me. For it proposes provision of a cycleway from a rural area with a very small population, but potentially many airport workers, into the built up areas of Bournemouth. But there's a few drawbacks here.
Firstly - the route already exists on the ground, mostly over existing country back roads, and a bridge across the River Stour. In fact I cycled the route over ten years ago. So its not about provision of anything new. Just upgraded somewhere I'd assume.
Secondly if the route is upgraded it has the potential to increased cycle traffic along paths currently trod mostly by the dog walking brigade, and at one pinch point a number of fishermen. No potential for an increase in conflicting usage here then - wandering dogs, men with expensive fishing gear lying the ground, and cyclists at an increased speed.
Thirdly, the main beneficiary should be the airport workers. But frankly I'd be surprised if many of those not already using the route would choose to do so after its been upgraded (whatever that entails)
And finally - this is not to cover the whole route indicated on the map - but just that piece marked in red i.e. the pinch point referred to earlier. I'd guess that means taking a sometimes narrow and muddy riverside walk, aka locally as a peaceful summertime stroll. And creating a cycle track instead. Great news.
I'd love to be more objective here. To base my view on fact and details. But the plans are really rather sketchy at best, and also carry a couple of interesting warnings as to "the far reaching nature of the scheme" and "not a promise where the route will go".
Huh? So what was the money budgeted for in the £50 million bid then?
In fairness I'll leave this for the present until more detail arises once this project starts on the ground.
But as a walker I fear perhaps the Sustrans bid doesn't really represent much of importance to me and may in fact deter me from using this particular area in the future.
More to come on this I'm sure. Labels: Fitness, Miscellaneous, walks
Sunday, October 28
TV: When Hell Freezes
No, not the title of the Eagles latest offering but another film/documentary from Channel 4 to be screened during prime time this coming Monday (21:00 - 22:35)
Following on after Joe Simpson's 'Beckoning Silence' last week tomorrow's programme relates Douglas Mawson's 1912 Antarctic expedition (or more relevantly the failure of it) that resulted in his 315-mile trek sans his original companions, and most of the food.
I can't presently find out if there's any more of these daring-do tales to come, but the subject matter so far is well chosen, and if Simpson's offering is anything to go by, well put together.
Aren't we outdoorsy folk being spoilt at presentLabels: Fitness, Miscellaneous
Tuesday, October 23
Joe Simpson on Surviving Till 40
No apologies for a follow up the JS piece to mention another of his on-line articles.
The git may be a year younger than me, but I'd bet I don't make nearly as many creaking noises as Mr S when I walk. And for me that is despite far too many years abusing motorcycles in some pretty foul weather/places.
That's mostly astride the bike concerned; Sometimes beneath it;
Ho hum. Never forget how to grow old. Rather disgracefully.Labels: books, Fitness, Miscellaneous
Monday, August 6
Me and my big mouth
Sod's Law will have its little joke, following my spirit rendition about Fitness a few days ago.
A niggling lower back pain has proved a stubborn little distraction over the past week, and finally decided to take up semi-permanent residency. And now I need to think about its presence there's a realisation that it has been twinging for two or maybe even three weeks.
Hhmmm - post Scotland? But like most of these slowly developing complaints (and believe me I complain about things like this!) I can't put my finger on any particular mishap or trigger.
So its off to the chiro once more, and highly likely I'm now a a no show at the upcoming UK Outdoors Bloggers Welsh Meet this weekend.
Curses.
And I recall that the oh so nice Alan Sloman was bringing me my weight in beer. I wonder if he recalls Davenports esteemed service? Now when did that slide quietly out of contemporary life?Labels: Fitness, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Wednesday, August 1
The Butcher's Dog or Fit For Nothing?
Over the last couple of months I've had an few thoughts bouncing around at the back of my brain concerning fitness and its relevance to hill walking and backpacking. There's a lot of tosh, especially in mens magazines, about the 'right' level of physical ability and how to achieve or improve the level each individual may require for their particular lifestyle.
So a timely programme from BBC Radio 4 "Am I Normal" on the very subject, available via the BBC Listen Again service. The second series is picking up from the first, giving a pragmatic view of many myths around medicine and human normality. And bursting a few preconceptions along the way
And hey - guess what? No-one can really agree how to easily measure an individual's fitness level (without a bank of gym/lab based tests) or indeed what exercise regime is necessary to help an individual become 'fit'.
Naturally I've got a few ideas of mine own.
I thought a definition of the term 'Fitness' would be a good starting point but surprisingly a clear definition, or at least one that doesn't include the word 'Fit' is difficult to nail down. This is typical........
Fitness - 'Good health or physical condition, especially as the result of exercise and proper nutrition'
My old fallback Wikipedia has a slightly fuller discussion including this telling phrase "This is often presented in textbooks as a triangle which represent physical, emotional, and mental fitness. Hence, one may be physically fit but may still suffer from a mental illness or have emotional problems. The "ideal triangle" is balanced in all areas"
Hmm - that's a lot more than the usual view that fitness relates to an ability to run a marathon or swim a couple of miles? Only one side of the triangle surely?
Out walking a good level of physical ability is relevant to the route, the geographical terrain and the duration of the exercise. Hence a recovering heart attack victim may find a short walk along a canal side national trail ideal, but not a steep haul to a peak straight up from the valley floor!
So how does that affect what we do?
I'd rate my own level of fitness as "good", but not great. That is I can walk several miles over farmland tracks without needing to stop for more than an occasional rest. More to break a trip up really. I don't pant when walking, and I can carry a reasonable weight as necessary.
I walk regularly throughout the winter months, but when it comes to my first backpacking trip to the hills each year I have one simple rule that I stick with - "Take it easy, and listen to the body"
Its not about how fast I move, or how much ground is covered. Its the fact that I can safely pass over the fellside, at an easy pace, without listening to blood pounding in my ears and with my heart feeling like its trying to come through my chest. If that's the case I'm going too fast or the terrain is not right for my level of physical activity (and that's not a situation I've yet to come across)
The first 1/2 hour or so climbing up the ascent is always a trial, no matter what time of year, and how used to it I am. And I expect to sweat. A lot. But a bit like a runner getting into their stride, once that is over and the body responding to the physical effort I tend to settle down. The first couple of days on a trip the aches and pains can make movement early in the day quite errr .....interesting, but its never so painful that it affects my ability to move and walk safely. And the body naturally detoxs itself over the first few days of concerted physical activity and plenty of food/water for refuelling along the way.
So in my case fitness is the ability of my body to safely perform the physical activity required of it.
As the summer continues my walking speed and my recovery ability picks up (I'm getting 'fitter'), my body naturally responding to the physical stimulation and building additional muscle and sinew to cope with the specific physical challenges I have set it. The key word here - naturally.
So how to get hill fit? Easy. Walk. Out on the hills if possible, or at least start using the stairs. You've got to start somewhere. And do it regularly. That's the key.
Cycling, swimming, running or even a gym all help with cardio vascular fitness but the essential method of getting fitter to walk, is ..... well just to walk. A lot.
I used to run regularly especially using a lot of hill work besides the local seafront, but perversely I found this created an over dependence on those muscles groups required for running. And though my CV was excellent I found increasing problems performing other exercise due to this over specialisation. More prone for instance to ankle and calf muscle injury. Often ending in physio treatment.
So to the other elements of fitness.
I've not seen much in the outdoor mags about this, but without will power, the intent to reach a selected point, that special sense of purpose, you probably won't even manage to get out of the car in the car park.
Many is the time I've felt that I needed to stop, only to look at the map and decide that the rest stop a few miles further on looked attractive, and within minutes of deciding to continue my fitness level and general spirits felt improved. The mind can be a dirty little trickster and it will naturally try for the easy option where possible. Again walking with or without a pack (but regularly) has taught me recognise when I really am finished for the day, or just letting my mind get one over on me (Remember the phrase 'Mind Over Matter'?)
But beware over overriding all the signals from the mind and body. The other side of the coin is knowing when enough is enough for the day.
And finally - enjoy the trip. If you're fretting about the weather, whether sun or rain. If its no longer fun, but a physical and mind numbing trial of stamina. Time to plan a finish.
The hill will always be there another day. It's mostly useful if you can say the same about yourself.
So next time some gym fit hero tells you about their 25 mile multi peak bagging day, that started and finished in the dark, and as they collapse into the chair before you, time to ask the killer question. And why did you enjoy it?
I reckon that's my triangle in place.
And if you want to think more about how to put that route plan together and make the best of your days out, Paul has some excellent observations over on Wilderness WalesLabels: Fitness, Mental Health, Trip Planning
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Saturday's duties took me into the Christchurch area. So for a change I took a walk out over Hengistbury Head, along Mudeford Sandspit, before tracing a route along the shore of Christchurch Harbour and back to the car.
Its not a long trip, less than 5 miles even taking the longer alternatives. However it manages to include a short but steep ascent & some superb coastal views.
To the east is The Needles Lighthouse drawing the eye beyond to the Isle of Wight.
And turning westwards a sweep across Bournemouth Bay. Swanage in the far distance, with the dowdy sprawl of the Poole/Bournemouth conurbation as one's gaze tracks the beach back towards your position.
.jpg)
Quickly turning to the north what remains of the Dorset heathland these days, along with the New Forest in the distance, is laid out before your feet. Twinkling distant in today's sunlight are the Rivers Stour & Avon, their floodplain meanderings finally joining up as they reach Christchurch, its Priory clearly silhouetted against the town.
.jpg)
Sounds idyllic doesn't it? A pity then the local council charge prohibitive amounts to use the car park. But despite that the area this Saturday morning was teeming with people, dogs, kids etc etc.
Well I should have known really. Its not a place to come for a quiet walk, not unless there's a gale lashing rain inland from the English Channel. Which for some reason tends to deter some people.
Not so your humble scribe. Although it has the dubious pleasure of being one of the few places where I had a (well fitted) cap ripped from my head and discarded some 50m away. Mind you it was a bit gusty that day - and I did seem to be the only one on the headland tasting salty raindrops. The rain actually wind sped spray spat up from the sea some 300m distant at the foot of the cliff 30+m below.
But that's another tale.
As usual I parked in one of the side streets to avoid the parking charge & avoid the predatory Traffic Wardens that roam the area. As I walked towards the headland track contouring the coastline the unexpected drone of bagpipes was wafted on the stiff breeze.
Well I say wafted.
Common to most bagpipe enthusiasts, interested in remaining on good terms with their neighbours, the only practice sites seem to be far out in the wilds as the skirl(?) of the pipes does have a tendency to carry some considerable distance.
Especially true today. Turning a corner the hedgerow on my right dropped away to reveal two of the buggers playing a spirited duet (whilst trying not to look as if they were up to no good in the bushes)
They needn't have worried - their playing was accomplished. Although quite what a brace of pipers were doing here on the south coast was another question entirely. Particularly when dressed in full Highland Regalia.
Nearing the Head the amount people increased - and with it an increasing number of those carrying/using walking poles. At first I thought nothing of it. That is until I noticed the strange outdoor regalia being worn. Trainers, jeans, tracksuits. It felt like a poorly funded fashion show. But the poles were clearly in pristine condition sporting brand names I'd not previously come across before.
And so it continued as I strode purposefully up to the OS trig point on the Head itself.
Onwards across the headland, wind blowing hard as usual, to eventually descend the far side, a spur of the moment decision made to head for the cafe on Mudeford Spit.
Note I've carefully not mentioned the cafe's name, or provided a link. If you're in this area use the Hungry Hiker next to the car park, which has a good reputation. Avoid the Spit's cafe unless you happen to like slow service, costly but poor quality food & the dubious distinction of queuing for a table whilst staring out over all the empty spaces!
This was the first (and last) time my business will be remitted at said establishment. A pity as its sister premises on Christchurch Quay is a long time & favourite haunt of mine, although recent visits suggest a subtle drop in ambiance & service.
Sitting in the cafe and awaiting my order, my attention was again drawn to the frequency of fellow diners with nice shiny walking poles leaning haphazardly by their tables.
It seems that Nordic Walking as a fitness regime has hit this area big time. Quite how or why this has happened remains a mystery to me.
Now please don't take my skepticism as a negative feeling. I'm all for anything that gets people outdoors and enjoying the landscape. But judging by the amount of food being consumed today's exercise benefit was for fast being negated by a mass intake of carbs, fats & sugary substances.
As I pushed away my half eaten meal (a salad - naturally) I made for the exit and a more solitary route back to avoid the excess of humanity working hard at working hard. But I couldn't help but wonder as I passed the "Noddy Train" stop, its lengthening queue of people awaiting the 5 minute ride back to the car park, just how many of the Stick Brigade would take that option for their return journey. Full bellies complaining at the thought of the reasonably short walk back.
Maybe I was right.
My route back followed the edge of the harbour. A quiet & solitary amble with not a soul met along the way until I neared the tarmac track to exit the headland. And with it the inevitable bottleneck of people, sticks & wandering dogs.
Now I remember why I avoid this area like a plague during the summer months; And most of the Winter ones as well.
A good walking route, like a good wine, is to be enjoyed & savoured for inner contentment. And regrettably the well intentioned aims to make this area into a 'Visitor Attraction' has instead created a strange sort of venue.
My tip - it can be an enjoyable walk with superb veiws. But go when the weather is foul & the Stick People are more likely to stay away.
Labels: Fitness, New Forest, walks
aRoundabout - outdoor news and views (Aug 22)
Blimey, Bank Holiday weekend looming up already. Was that summer already? At least no one seems to be worrying about the impending weather. Well it can’t really be much worse than what we've had over recent weeks. Can it?
So a bit of on-line entertainment in case you become in need of an excuse to keep you from throttling the in-law(s)/kid(s)/partner(s) during the coming days.
Walkingforum.co.uk has been around for a little while and has a thriving on-line community. True there are a number of other forums used by those of us getting our outdoor chat and information on-line. But none, as far as I'm aware, specifically geared to walking.
Sam Haraldson over at Ultralight Backpacking, Wilderness Trekking, Outdoor Adventure (Wow - snappy title) is a bit keen on ultralight backpacking, US style. His site is full of goodies to explore. And a blog as well. One I’ll be working through over coming days.
By some weird synchronicity I found myself earlier this evening reading a familiar phrase casually tossed into my day by MagicMan himself, Alan Sloman. 'Skull cinema' - now where had I read that before?
Google pointed me all over the net, even suggesting one source to be Stephen King. But it was this piece from The Straggler - The Road To Wisdom (ignore the 'Install Chinese language' offer - its a legitimate site) that finally reminded me of the phrase originator, John Hillaby - writer and (compulsive?) long distance walker. Not necessarily the first LeJoG challenger, but his "Journey Through Britain" is surely the first to put the journey down in print, for a modern audience to share.
Sadly John is no longer with us, but the book remains a true classic, as is much of his other work. The Straggler reminded me of an under thought that's been skipping around my mind since the springtime. How far can you walk in a day? Or more to the point, at what point does it cease to Be Fun and become A Chore?
I'll spend some wet weather time indoors with The Straggler articles if this is typical of the quality of work available.
And if the sun does happen to shamefacedly pop out. Well there's a little local walk I've been eyeing for sometime. Say about 30+ miles. Which might just beckon me along its route, if conditions are right, and the fact it follows a floodplain isn’t the deterrent it sounds.
Finally, looking back at the LeJoG topic, LoneWalker's Blog is considering the same subject. Again a blog within a site full of backpacking and walking information.
Whatever the weather, have a good one. And let's all try to have it outdoors.Labels: blog media, Fitness, Gear, New Forest, walks
Sunday, July 6
Nordic Walking USA
One of the enjoyable benefits of this Blogging malarkey is getting feedback & following up other people's experience of outdoor affairs.
So thanks to Claire for her view on mixed format shows from the USA, which in turn led me on to one of her blogs, Nordic Walking USA, to explore how this activity is developing.
A further spin-off is the chance to feedback the specialist information to one of my show contacts and assist their own plans to to improve their on-line activity.
Wins all round!Labels: Fitness
Saturday, May 24
Mad, Bad & Good To Go
I spotted a BBC news item earlier today trailing the forthcoming BBC2 SpringWatch programme. One theme discussed was the beneficial effects of nature. With personal insight from one of SW's presenters, Bill Oddie, a self confessed sufferer with clinical depression.
This hearkens back to a regular theme mentioned here in the past praising regular activity outdoors as a simple and rapid pick-me-up for mental health improvement. And searching for that reference I spotted it was about the same time last year that I posted on this subject.
Oh dear - should I worry?
Perhaps its because I feel much in need of recharge myself after some difficult work pressures over the last few weeks (Hence the erratic posting - sitting in front of a keyboard for relaxation hasn't really been much of a pleasure recently)
Then there's been the steady stream of ad hoc visitors at home. All usually welcome, but not one after the other like the typical early morning bus to work.
Normally either of these is not a problem. But this Bank Holiday weekend I just feel like pulling up the drawbridge and repelling all boarders (says he mixing his metaphors)
I'd already decided, in light of Ian Fleming's 100th birthday anniversary (huh- how does that work then?) and a passing acquaintance with the film version of his creation James Bond 007, that I'd read through the whole series of Bond books in their published sequence. An idea arising from recent press articles about the man and the depiction of his work on film. For Bond, on film, is not the same as Bond the book character. (Why do films seem to screw up a good plot so very easily?) And as for the plot lines - typically mangled to hell it appears (I read Octopussy during the week - a 30 page short story, and little to do with Bond, except as a catalyst; And definitely nothing about world domination!)
Fleming wrote each new book to lead on from the previous, making for one long story across the books as a whole. It's a great way to approach an author's work if you find the material enjoyable, especially if you read as quickly as myself.
I first tried this a few years ago with the C.P.Snow series "Strangers & Brothers", about 13 books I recall. Trying to remember the total brings to mind pleasant memories of a trip to Hay-On Wye, the UK second-hand book capital, tracking down cheap pulp versions of each edition.
Closer to home I have scoured the local charity shops to find missing items, occasionally turning to E-Bay, or Amazon's excellent used section. For it's often the early part of the series that proves more difficult to find with smaller print runs when the author was less well known.
These days, having the benefit of on-line Library Search & Reservation facilities across three organisations, I can usually line up the books in advance, with only the cost of the reservation fee. True the thrill of the chase may be gone, but with much less cost. And there is also the consideration of what do to with the books once read. My expanding personal library is stored insecurely in large boxes, and as a result the attic floor groans alarmingly at times.
Its been said that "the pen is mightier than the sword" Not quite what was in mind if one night the straining attic floor was to give way, depositing its load onto me below. Peacefully asleep.
Which really is where I should be soon, to recharge my physical battery in preparation for some decent outdoor walkabouts, despite today's blustery south coast winds but unexpected warmth.
There you go.... TV, Health, Film, Education... and even a bit on the Weather at the end.
Where else could you get such a rich variety and still have the option of ignoring it all
;-) Labels: books, Fitness, Mental Health, nature
Monday, March 10
How to walk uphill?
I spotted a whimsical thread recently on the uk.rec.walking newsgroup referring to a Daily Telegraph piece "Science of the bleedin' obvious - It's easier to climb in zigzags"
Taking a quick look, I nodded sagely at the astounding conclusion that "people can use less energy by moving up and down steep slopes in a complicated motion known as zigzagging", smiled at the futility. And then moved on.
A little later I realised something about the new report was niggling away in a corner of my mind. Whilst the root source was unavailable, a précis of the piece provided further detail (and left me thankful that the full report wasn't something I felt obliged to work my way through)
Undoubtedly the conclusion is valid, but more importantly its one that any trainee hill walker quickly learns through painful experiment.
But still that niggle remained, until it dawned on me that I can't recall any of the outdoor books fully explaining the real trick to walking uphill. Well at least to do it with least effort and maximum effect. Lots of examples, but no clear explanation.
So gather closer O Initiate to be introduced to the wonderful principle of Cadence.
Now if you've just followed that last link, you may be mystified as to what on earth I'm talking about. And quite right too. After all, as any Initiate understands the truth is not easily revealed, but needs to be revealed often via a path of self-awareness.
So try this definition of Cadence to see if the mists of confusion clear. What still none the wiser?
Simply put Cadence is the method of keeping an even pace as you walk. You could measure it by paces per minute. Or energy exertion i.e. how fast/sweaty you feel as you move. Some like to use a heartbeat monitor to regulate the activity. But the trick is all in pace length.
Walking downhill, on good ground, you will naturally extend the length of your stride. And uphill the reverse is true. So to gain maximum benefit the key is to keep the walking pace the same (i.e. the number of paces per minute) but to change your stride pattern to match the ground you are covering. By doing this the majority of physical effort actually expended remains largely constant dependant on your physical fitness. And that last point is the problem.
Walking uphill try to keep your pace rate stable, shortening each step to keep that pace regular. But unless you are supremely mountain fit you'll soon find that the effect of your maintaining your pace count usually results in increasingly short steps and eventually very limited progress forward.
It's usually at that point that pace counting gets dropped and a switch over to an increased use of thigh muscles and arm swinging comes into play. And with it an increase in energy expenditure. And that ends up with an outbreak of sweating, something we all have experienced.
Personally my first few days newly out on the hills seem to require a couple of hours sweating profusely until my body works out what is being expected of it, and then starts to kick in with the extra muscle growth as compensation. Which is why the level of fitness I enjoy at the end of a trip is one of many benefits. But unfortunately one difficult to maintain without a regular exposure to the same sort of physical challenge.
But assuming you have the right level of physical fitness, remember the principle of Cadence for an easier ascent.
After all why do you think that the slow but steady Nepalese porter on an expedition will always arrive at camp ahead of the rushing trekker, once the latter has expended their energy excess?
And that observation you will find spread throughout much outdoor literature.
Well done O ex-Initiate (don't forget to pick up a pass certificate on your way out of the cave)
Homework for next time - practise the the 'Use of Will Power' to 'Get Up That Bloody Big Hill'. Swearing optional.
Another one for the FAQ I think.
Labels: Backpacking Advice, Fitness
Wednesday, January 9
Walking & Camping plans for 2008? Mr Kipling says "thats an exceedingly good ...."
Got those plans for your outdoor fun sorted yet?
Or maybe you are one of those people who prefer to work on a less formal approach with some vague thoughts and ideas. They're rattling around your brain at present, waiting to settle into something more concrete.
There's a number of people at this time of year who are busily trying to stick to their new resolutions. In some cases they can seem so vague as to be prone to failure. "Walk 12,000 miles this year"? So how do you know/care about that target after 3 months. Is it 500 or 2,500 miles down then. And if so why stick it - there's always next year after all.
I tend more towards the informal approach personally, but with some lessons used regularly in my day-life (that so-called real existence - bah!) That would be Lessons That Work mind you.
To quote the source usually associated with this simple advice welcome to Rudyard Kipling (the old cake maker himself - not), whose words still stand the test of time and common sense:
"I keep six honest serving-men
(They taught me all I knew);
Their names are What and Why and When
And How and Where and Who"
I know RK is more than a little non PC these days due to the "empire/colonial Englishman abroad" approach to the world of his writings. And such gems as Soudan Expeditionary Force can be hard to fathom per se these days. A man of his times most definitely. However there is a school of thought that believes his work may be read as a deliberate satire warning of the dangers of colonialism and the oppression of native nations. And he was for a time the youngest receiver of the Nobel Prize for literature.
Back to the message anyhow. It's a tenet commonly to be found in the field of journalism, and a litmus test I apply when reading/listening to news reports these days when assessing their ability to report. That is to inform. Rather than, as is increasingly more the case, to 'entertain' with only a few parts of a factual story.
Lets break the advice down to see how it can be used to get help:
What
At present this could be very clear, possibly due to circumstance (complete the TGO Challenge following selection pre Xmas - oops sorry Bob/Andy, or finally get that LEJoG trip going) Or possibly quite nebulous "Get out more wildcamping in '08"
Whichever it is, perhaps its time to make a wish list. Now. And Keep it in your wallet/purse so you can add/change it over the coming weeks as ideas present themselves.
Why
Self evident really to most readers of this site. But it does sometime pay to consider what you actually want to get from it. And that doesn't always mean climbing the highest point, or walking for miles.
Simply being outdoors will suffice for some folk.
When
Easier stuff now. For most of us this will be the warmer months, despite the reports coming back on wildcamping trips over the Xmas period. But that season can be very short if the real planning doesn't get going until June, or waits until after that summer holiday.
How
Not usually a problem, and normally related to transport logistics. But for a change why not try a different way of getting there, and possibly freeing up your mind to other route making opportunities as a result?
Or how about just walking out of that front door and start the trip straight away?
Where
Well I know where I want to go. You've your own choices.
But I do try to include one new location - some form of change/new challenge. And then there's always at least one old favourite in there as well. A return to past pleasures.
Who
If you plan to have company now is the time, whilst spirits seem as low as January finances, to offer some hope to others by getting them on board with your plans. Or perhaps you can fit in with their ideas?
Just some thoughts to play with. Hopefully provocative enough to stir the creative juices.
As I said earlier I'm quite informal in these things. Mostly. But without the self delivered promise of, say, that June week wildcamping in the Lakes, these long dark nights can drag. And what better way to shorten them with some early planning.
But let's not forget the ad-hoc trips which spring from sudden opportunity, and despite fore planning can often turn out to be the most enjoyable of all.
Something to do with stolen fruit being the sweetest perhaps?
Whatever your ideas, best of luck with them. No scratch that last wish. The best of 'working out how to get out into the outdoors to do it for yourself'. Whatever that may be for you.Labels: Fitness, Miscellaneous, walks
Monday, December 17
Sustrans National Lottery win - Pig in a Poke?
Lacking comment elsewhere within the UK outdoor blogging community (unless I've overlooked someone) here's my personal thoughts on the award last week of £50 million to Sustrans’ Connect2 project from the Big Lottery Fund to invest in walking and cycling UK-wide.
When the award was initially announced my reaction was - so what's that to me? I've been aware of Sustrans for some time now, but associated the group mostly with cycle routes. Not a huge interest of mine, but it sounded like a positive move - money to help with access to the great outdoors.
Now with anything related to the "National Lottery" my main reaction to that these days is by now pretty negative.
Why when I attempt to buy my Saturday paper/smokes do I somehow end up queueing behind a string of punters intent on buying multiple combinations of Lottery tickets and Lottery scratch cards - does anyone besides myself actually buy goods in a newsagents these days?
Furthermore I'm not against gambling per se. Indeed last week saw me spending sometime in the local casino during an evening's entertainment (And there's plenty I could write on the plain evidence of the dissociation of the ardent gambler from the surroundings and people around them. A very scary and extreme phenomena to observe for an occasional punter like myself)
But as for the national lottery being a "good" bet - hardly good odds to be honest, but back to the plot....
Sustrans successful bid was "to build a national network of cycle and walking routes". A laudable aim.
And then came news of certain alleged shenanigans with the voting. Oh right. What a surprise. Hasn't the recent rash of TV voting scams really already made the point on this. And frankly if I was involved with a charity seeking a donation of this magnitude I would make darned sure all my friends, relations, passers-by etc etc etc voted for my team using whatever means were provided by the donating organisation. But it seems that this has upset some folk as to the fairness of it all.
But despite the controversy let's stand back and look at all the candidates up for the cash - Eden Project: The Edge; Sherwood: The Living Legend; Black Country Urban Park; Sustrans: Connect2;
Three out of the four offering locally based projects.
And the winner - well that would be the only one with a nationally based project. Small wonder they received more votes really bearing in mind the increased number of people that their project could potentially influence.
So to the delivery plans of the winners to see just how this affects my outdoors access. After a little more digging into the detail behind Sustrans plans I must admit I'm still very unclear on quite what they intend to deliver. No great projects - just lots of joining up bits. And the more I look into the local initiatives, the more unsettling they become being aimed at semi-urban routes, possibly intending to influence some of the local population to walk/cycle to their destinations. But I'd guess more aimed at those lardy arses who think it fine in principle but won't bother to use the facilities anyway, save for an occasional trip with the kids at the height of summer.
I'm trying hard not to get too scathing here after looking at the local project nearest to me. For it proposes provision of a cycleway from a rural area with a very small population, but potentially many airport workers, into the built up areas of Bournemouth. But there's a few drawbacks here.
Firstly - the route already exists on the ground, mostly over existing country back roads, and a bridge across the River Stour. In fact I cycled the route over ten years ago. So its not about provision of anything new. Just upgraded somewhere I'd assume.
Secondly if the route is upgraded it has the potential to increased cycle traffic along paths currently trod mostly by the dog walking brigade, and at one pinch point a number of fishermen. No potential for an increase in conflicting usage here then - wandering dogs, men with expensive fishing gear lying the ground, and cyclists at an increased speed.
Thirdly, the main beneficiary should be the airport workers. But frankly I'd be surprised if many of those not already using the route would choose to do so after its been upgraded (whatever that entails)
And finally - this is not to cover the whole route indicated on the map - but just that piece marked in red i.e. the pinch point referred to earlier. I'd guess that means taking a sometimes narrow and muddy riverside walk, aka locally as a peaceful summertime stroll. And creating a cycle track instead. Great news.
I'd love to be more objective here. To base my view on fact and details. But the plans are really rather sketchy at best, and also carry a couple of interesting warnings as to "the far reaching nature of the scheme" and "not a promise where the route will go".
Huh? So what was the money budgeted for in the £50 million bid then?
In fairness I'll leave this for the present until more detail arises once this project starts on the ground.
But as a walker I fear perhaps the Sustrans bid doesn't really represent much of importance to me and may in fact deter me from using this particular area in the future.
More to come on this I'm sure. Labels: Fitness, Miscellaneous, walks
Sunday, October 28
TV: When Hell Freezes
No, not the title of the Eagles latest offering but another film/documentary from Channel 4 to be screened during prime time this coming Monday (21:00 - 22:35)
Following on after Joe Simpson's 'Beckoning Silence' last week tomorrow's programme relates Douglas Mawson's 1912 Antarctic expedition (or more relevantly the failure of it) that resulted in his 315-mile trek sans his original companions, and most of the food.
I can't presently find out if there's any more of these daring-do tales to come, but the subject matter so far is well chosen, and if Simpson's offering is anything to go by, well put together.
Aren't we outdoorsy folk being spoilt at presentLabels: Fitness, Miscellaneous
Tuesday, October 23
Joe Simpson on Surviving Till 40
No apologies for a follow up the JS piece to mention another of his on-line articles.
The git may be a year younger than me, but I'd bet I don't make nearly as many creaking noises as Mr S when I walk. And for me that is despite far too many years abusing motorcycles in some pretty foul weather/places.
That's mostly astride the bike concerned; Sometimes beneath it;
Ho hum. Never forget how to grow old. Rather disgracefully.Labels: books, Fitness, Miscellaneous
Monday, August 6
Me and my big mouth
Sod's Law will have its little joke, following my spirit rendition about Fitness a few days ago.
A niggling lower back pain has proved a stubborn little distraction over the past week, and finally decided to take up semi-permanent residency. And now I need to think about its presence there's a realisation that it has been twinging for two or maybe even three weeks.
Hhmmm - post Scotland? But like most of these slowly developing complaints (and believe me I complain about things like this!) I can't put my finger on any particular mishap or trigger.
So its off to the chiro once more, and highly likely I'm now a a no show at the upcoming UK Outdoors Bloggers Welsh Meet this weekend.
Curses.
And I recall that the oh so nice Alan Sloman was bringing me my weight in beer. I wonder if he recalls Davenports esteemed service? Now when did that slide quietly out of contemporary life?Labels: Fitness, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Wednesday, August 1
The Butcher's Dog or Fit For Nothing?
Over the last couple of months I've had an few thoughts bouncing around at the back of my brain concerning fitness and its relevance to hill walking and backpacking. There's a lot of tosh, especially in mens magazines, about the 'right' level of physical ability and how to achieve or improve the level each individual may require for their particular lifestyle.
So a timely programme from BBC Radio 4 "Am I Normal" on the very subject, available via the BBC Listen Again service. The second series is picking up from the first, giving a pragmatic view of many myths around medicine and human normality. And bursting a few preconceptions along the way
And hey - guess what? No-one can really agree how to easily measure an individual's fitness level (without a bank of gym/lab based tests) or indeed what exercise regime is necessary to help an individual become 'fit'.
Naturally I've got a few ideas of mine own.
I thought a definition of the term 'Fitness' would be a good starting point but surprisingly a clear definition, or at least one that doesn't include the word 'Fit' is difficult to nail down. This is typical........
Fitness - 'Good health or physical condition, especially as the result of exercise and proper nutrition'
My old fallback Wikipedia has a slightly fuller discussion including this telling phrase "This is often presented in textbooks as a triangle which represent physical, emotional, and mental fitness. Hence, one may be physically fit but may still suffer from a mental illness or have emotional problems. The "ideal triangle" is balanced in all areas"
Hmm - that's a lot more than the usual view that fitness relates to an ability to run a marathon or swim a couple of miles? Only one side of the triangle surely?
Out walking a good level of physical ability is relevant to the route, the geographical terrain and the duration of the exercise. Hence a recovering heart attack victim may find a short walk along a canal side national trail ideal, but not a steep haul to a peak straight up from the valley floor!
So how does that affect what we do?
I'd rate my own level of fitness as "good", but not great. That is I can walk several miles over farmland tracks without needing to stop for more than an occasional rest. More to break a trip up really. I don't pant when walking, and I can carry a reasonable weight as necessary.
I walk regularly throughout the winter months, but when it comes to my first backpacking trip to the hills each year I have one simple rule that I stick with - "Take it easy, and listen to the body"
Its not about how fast I move, or how much ground is covered. Its the fact that I can safely pass over the fellside, at an easy pace, without listening to blood pounding in my ears and with my heart feeling like its trying to come through my chest. If that's the case I'm going too fast or the terrain is not right for my level of physical activity (and that's not a situation I've yet to come across)
The first 1/2 hour or so climbing up the ascent is always a trial, no matter what time of year, and how used to it I am. And I expect to sweat. A lot. But a bit like a runner getting into their stride, once that is over and the body responding to the physical effort I tend to settle down. The first couple of days on a trip the aches and pains can make movement early in the day quite errr .....interesting, but its never so painful that it affects my ability to move and walk safely. And the body naturally detoxs itself over the first few days of concerted physical activity and plenty of food/water for refuelling along the way.
So in my case fitness is the ability of my body to safely perform the physical activity required of it.
As the summer continues my walking speed and my recovery ability picks up (I'm getting 'fitter'), my body naturally responding to the physical stimulation and building additional muscle and sinew to cope with the specific physical challenges I have set it. The key word here - naturally.
So how to get hill fit? Easy. Walk. Out on the hills if possible, or at least start using the stairs. You've got to start somewhere. And do it regularly. That's the key.
Cycling, swimming, running or even a gym all help with cardio vascular fitness but the essential method of getting fitter to walk, is ..... well just to walk. A lot.
I used to run regularly especially using a lot of hill work besides the local seafront, but perversely I found this created an over dependence on those muscles groups required for running. And though my CV was excellent I found increasing problems performing other exercise due to this over specialisation. More prone for instance to ankle and calf muscle injury. Often ending in physio treatment.
So to the other elements of fitness.
I've not seen much in the outdoor mags about this, but without will power, the intent to reach a selected point, that special sense of purpose, you probably won't even manage to get out of the car in the car park.
Many is the time I've felt that I needed to stop, only to look at the map and decide that the rest stop a few miles further on looked attractive, and within minutes of deciding to continue my fitness level and general spirits felt improved. The mind can be a dirty little trickster and it will naturally try for the easy option where possible. Again walking with or without a pack (but regularly) has taught me recognise when I really am finished for the day, or just letting my mind get one over on me (Remember the phrase 'Mind Over Matter'?)
But beware over overriding all the signals from the mind and body. The other side of the coin is knowing when enough is enough for the day.
And finally - enjoy the trip. If you're fretting about the weather, whether sun or rain. If its no longer fun, but a physical and mind numbing trial of stamina. Time to plan a finish.
The hill will always be there another day. It's mostly useful if you can say the same about yourself.
So next time some gym fit hero tells you about their 25 mile multi peak bagging day, that started and finished in the dark, and as they collapse into the chair before you, time to ask the killer question. And why did you enjoy it?
I reckon that's my triangle in place.
And if you want to think more about how to put that route plan together and make the best of your days out, Paul has some excellent observations over on Wilderness WalesLabels: Fitness, Mental Health, Trip Planning
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
So a bit of on-line entertainment in case you become in need of an excuse to keep you from throttling the in-law(s)/kid(s)/partner(s) during the coming days.
Walkingforum.co.uk has been around for a little while and has a thriving on-line community. True there are a number of other forums used by those of us getting our outdoor chat and information on-line. But none, as far as I'm aware, specifically geared to walking.
Sam Haraldson over at Ultralight Backpacking, Wilderness Trekking, Outdoor Adventure (Wow - snappy title) is a bit keen on ultralight backpacking, US style. His site is full of goodies to explore. And a blog as well. One I’ll be working through over coming days.
By some weird synchronicity I found myself earlier this evening reading a familiar phrase casually tossed into my day by MagicMan himself, Alan Sloman. 'Skull cinema' - now where had I read that before?
Google pointed me all over the net, even suggesting one source to be Stephen King. But it was this piece from The Straggler - The Road To Wisdom (ignore the 'Install Chinese language' offer - its a legitimate site) that finally reminded me of the phrase originator, John Hillaby - writer and (compulsive?) long distance walker. Not necessarily the first LeJoG challenger, but his "Journey Through Britain" is surely the first to put the journey down in print, for a modern audience to share.
Sadly John is no longer with us, but the book remains a true classic, as is much of his other work. The Straggler reminded me of an under thought that's been skipping around my mind since the springtime. How far can you walk in a day? Or more to the point, at what point does it cease to Be Fun and become A Chore?
I'll spend some wet weather time indoors with The Straggler articles if this is typical of the quality of work available.
And if the sun does happen to shamefacedly pop out. Well there's a little local walk I've been eyeing for sometime. Say about 30+ miles. Which might just beckon me along its route, if conditions are right, and the fact it follows a floodplain isn’t the deterrent it sounds.
Finally, looking back at the LeJoG topic, LoneWalker's Blog is considering the same subject. Again a blog within a site full of backpacking and walking information.
Whatever the weather, have a good one. And let's all try to have it outdoors.
Labels: blog media, Fitness, Gear, New Forest, walks
Nordic Walking USA
One of the enjoyable benefits of this Blogging malarkey is getting feedback & following up other people's experience of outdoor affairs.
So thanks to Claire for her view on mixed format shows from the USA, which in turn led me on to one of her blogs, Nordic Walking USA, to explore how this activity is developing.
A further spin-off is the chance to feedback the specialist information to one of my show contacts and assist their own plans to to improve their on-line activity.
Wins all round!Labels: Fitness
Saturday, May 24
Mad, Bad & Good To Go
I spotted a BBC news item earlier today trailing the forthcoming BBC2 SpringWatch programme. One theme discussed was the beneficial effects of nature. With personal insight from one of SW's presenters, Bill Oddie, a self confessed sufferer with clinical depression.
This hearkens back to a regular theme mentioned here in the past praising regular activity outdoors as a simple and rapid pick-me-up for mental health improvement. And searching for that reference I spotted it was about the same time last year that I posted on this subject.
Oh dear - should I worry?
Perhaps its because I feel much in need of recharge myself after some difficult work pressures over the last few weeks (Hence the erratic posting - sitting in front of a keyboard for relaxation hasn't really been much of a pleasure recently)
Then there's been the steady stream of ad hoc visitors at home. All usually welcome, but not one after the other like the typical early morning bus to work.
Normally either of these is not a problem. But this Bank Holiday weekend I just feel like pulling up the drawbridge and repelling all boarders (says he mixing his metaphors)
I'd already decided, in light of Ian Fleming's 100th birthday anniversary (huh- how does that work then?) and a passing acquaintance with the film version of his creation James Bond 007, that I'd read through the whole series of Bond books in their published sequence. An idea arising from recent press articles about the man and the depiction of his work on film. For Bond, on film, is not the same as Bond the book character. (Why do films seem to screw up a good plot so very easily?) And as for the plot lines - typically mangled to hell it appears (I read Octopussy during the week - a 30 page short story, and little to do with Bond, except as a catalyst; And definitely nothing about world domination!)
Fleming wrote each new book to lead on from the previous, making for one long story across the books as a whole. It's a great way to approach an author's work if you find the material enjoyable, especially if you read as quickly as myself.
I first tried this a few years ago with the C.P.Snow series "Strangers & Brothers", about 13 books I recall. Trying to remember the total brings to mind pleasant memories of a trip to Hay-On Wye, the UK second-hand book capital, tracking down cheap pulp versions of each edition.
Closer to home I have scoured the local charity shops to find missing items, occasionally turning to E-Bay, or Amazon's excellent used section. For it's often the early part of the series that proves more difficult to find with smaller print runs when the author was less well known.
These days, having the benefit of on-line Library Search & Reservation facilities across three organisations, I can usually line up the books in advance, with only the cost of the reservation fee. True the thrill of the chase may be gone, but with much less cost. And there is also the consideration of what do to with the books once read. My expanding personal library is stored insecurely in large boxes, and as a result the attic floor groans alarmingly at times.
Its been said that "the pen is mightier than the sword" Not quite what was in mind if one night the straining attic floor was to give way, depositing its load onto me below. Peacefully asleep.
Which really is where I should be soon, to recharge my physical battery in preparation for some decent outdoor walkabouts, despite today's blustery south coast winds but unexpected warmth.
There you go.... TV, Health, Film, Education... and even a bit on the Weather at the end.
Where else could you get such a rich variety and still have the option of ignoring it all
;-) Labels: books, Fitness, Mental Health, nature
Monday, March 10
How to walk uphill?
I spotted a whimsical thread recently on the uk.rec.walking newsgroup referring to a Daily Telegraph piece "Science of the bleedin' obvious - It's easier to climb in zigzags"
Taking a quick look, I nodded sagely at the astounding conclusion that "people can use less energy by moving up and down steep slopes in a complicated motion known as zigzagging", smiled at the futility. And then moved on.
A little later I realised something about the new report was niggling away in a corner of my mind. Whilst the root source was unavailable, a précis of the piece provided further detail (and left me thankful that the full report wasn't something I felt obliged to work my way through)
Undoubtedly the conclusion is valid, but more importantly its one that any trainee hill walker quickly learns through painful experiment.
But still that niggle remained, until it dawned on me that I can't recall any of the outdoor books fully explaining the real trick to walking uphill. Well at least to do it with least effort and maximum effect. Lots of examples, but no clear explanation.
So gather closer O Initiate to be introduced to the wonderful principle of Cadence.
Now if you've just followed that last link, you may be mystified as to what on earth I'm talking about. And quite right too. After all, as any Initiate understands the truth is not easily revealed, but needs to be revealed often via a path of self-awareness.
So try this definition of Cadence to see if the mists of confusion clear. What still none the wiser?
Simply put Cadence is the method of keeping an even pace as you walk. You could measure it by paces per minute. Or energy exertion i.e. how fast/sweaty you feel as you move. Some like to use a heartbeat monitor to regulate the activity. But the trick is all in pace length.
Walking downhill, on good ground, you will naturally extend the length of your stride. And uphill the reverse is true. So to gain maximum benefit the key is to keep the walking pace the same (i.e. the number of paces per minute) but to change your stride pattern to match the ground you are covering. By doing this the majority of physical effort actually expended remains largely constant dependant on your physical fitness. And that last point is the problem.
Walking uphill try to keep your pace rate stable, shortening each step to keep that pace regular. But unless you are supremely mountain fit you'll soon find that the effect of your maintaining your pace count usually results in increasingly short steps and eventually very limited progress forward.
It's usually at that point that pace counting gets dropped and a switch over to an increased use of thigh muscles and arm swinging comes into play. And with it an increase in energy expenditure. And that ends up with an outbreak of sweating, something we all have experienced.
Personally my first few days newly out on the hills seem to require a couple of hours sweating profusely until my body works out what is being expected of it, and then starts to kick in with the extra muscle growth as compensation. Which is why the level of fitness I enjoy at the end of a trip is one of many benefits. But unfortunately one difficult to maintain without a regular exposure to the same sort of physical challenge.
But assuming you have the right level of physical fitness, remember the principle of Cadence for an easier ascent.
After all why do you think that the slow but steady Nepalese porter on an expedition will always arrive at camp ahead of the rushing trekker, once the latter has expended their energy excess?
And that observation you will find spread throughout much outdoor literature.
Well done O ex-Initiate (don't forget to pick up a pass certificate on your way out of the cave)
Homework for next time - practise the the 'Use of Will Power' to 'Get Up That Bloody Big Hill'. Swearing optional.
Another one for the FAQ I think.
Labels: Backpacking Advice, Fitness
Wednesday, January 9
Walking & Camping plans for 2008? Mr Kipling says "thats an exceedingly good ...."
Got those plans for your outdoor fun sorted yet?
Or maybe you are one of those people who prefer to work on a less formal approach with some vague thoughts and ideas. They're rattling around your brain at present, waiting to settle into something more concrete.
There's a number of people at this time of year who are busily trying to stick to their new resolutions. In some cases they can seem so vague as to be prone to failure. "Walk 12,000 miles this year"? So how do you know/care about that target after 3 months. Is it 500 or 2,500 miles down then. And if so why stick it - there's always next year after all.
I tend more towards the informal approach personally, but with some lessons used regularly in my day-life (that so-called real existence - bah!) That would be Lessons That Work mind you.
To quote the source usually associated with this simple advice welcome to Rudyard Kipling (the old cake maker himself - not), whose words still stand the test of time and common sense:
"I keep six honest serving-men
(They taught me all I knew);
Their names are What and Why and When
And How and Where and Who"
I know RK is more than a little non PC these days due to the "empire/colonial Englishman abroad" approach to the world of his writings. And such gems as Soudan Expeditionary Force can be hard to fathom per se these days. A man of his times most definitely. However there is a school of thought that believes his work may be read as a deliberate satire warning of the dangers of colonialism and the oppression of native nations. And he was for a time the youngest receiver of the Nobel Prize for literature.
Back to the message anyhow. It's a tenet commonly to be found in the field of journalism, and a litmus test I apply when reading/listening to news reports these days when assessing their ability to report. That is to inform. Rather than, as is increasingly more the case, to 'entertain' with only a few parts of a factual story.
Lets break the advice down to see how it can be used to get help:
What
At present this could be very clear, possibly due to circumstance (complete the TGO Challenge following selection pre Xmas - oops sorry Bob/Andy, or finally get that LEJoG trip going) Or possibly quite nebulous "Get out more wildcamping in '08"
Whichever it is, perhaps its time to make a wish list. Now. And Keep it in your wallet/purse so you can add/change it over the coming weeks as ideas present themselves.
Why
Self evident really to most readers of this site. But it does sometime pay to consider what you actually want to get from it. And that doesn't always mean climbing the highest point, or walking for miles.
Simply being outdoors will suffice for some folk.
When
Easier stuff now. For most of us this will be the warmer months, despite the reports coming back on wildcamping trips over the Xmas period. But that season can be very short if the real planning doesn't get going until June, or waits until after that summer holiday.
How
Not usually a problem, and normally related to transport logistics. But for a change why not try a different way of getting there, and possibly freeing up your mind to other route making opportunities as a result?
Or how about just walking out of that front door and start the trip straight away?
Where
Well I know where I want to go. You've your own choices.
But I do try to include one new location - some form of change/new challenge. And then there's always at least one old favourite in there as well. A return to past pleasures.
Who
If you plan to have company now is the time, whilst spirits seem as low as January finances, to offer some hope to others by getting them on board with your plans. Or perhaps you can fit in with their ideas?
Just some thoughts to play with. Hopefully provocative enough to stir the creative juices.
As I said earlier I'm quite informal in these things. Mostly. But without the self delivered promise of, say, that June week wildcamping in the Lakes, these long dark nights can drag. And what better way to shorten them with some early planning.
But let's not forget the ad-hoc trips which spring from sudden opportunity, and despite fore planning can often turn out to be the most enjoyable of all.
Something to do with stolen fruit being the sweetest perhaps?
Whatever your ideas, best of luck with them. No scratch that last wish. The best of 'working out how to get out into the outdoors to do it for yourself'. Whatever that may be for you.Labels: Fitness, Miscellaneous, walks
Monday, December 17
Sustrans National Lottery win - Pig in a Poke?
Lacking comment elsewhere within the UK outdoor blogging community (unless I've overlooked someone) here's my personal thoughts on the award last week of £50 million to Sustrans’ Connect2 project from the Big Lottery Fund to invest in walking and cycling UK-wide.
When the award was initially announced my reaction was - so what's that to me? I've been aware of Sustrans for some time now, but associated the group mostly with cycle routes. Not a huge interest of mine, but it sounded like a positive move - money to help with access to the great outdoors.
Now with anything related to the "National Lottery" my main reaction to that these days is by now pretty negative.
Why when I attempt to buy my Saturday paper/smokes do I somehow end up queueing behind a string of punters intent on buying multiple combinations of Lottery tickets and Lottery scratch cards - does anyone besides myself actually buy goods in a newsagents these days?
Furthermore I'm not against gambling per se. Indeed last week saw me spending sometime in the local casino during an evening's entertainment (And there's plenty I could write on the plain evidence of the dissociation of the ardent gambler from the surroundings and people around them. A very scary and extreme phenomena to observe for an occasional punter like myself)
But as for the national lottery being a "good" bet - hardly good odds to be honest, but back to the plot....
Sustrans successful bid was "to build a national network of cycle and walking routes". A laudable aim.
And then came news of certain alleged shenanigans with the voting. Oh right. What a surprise. Hasn't the recent rash of TV voting scams really already made the point on this. And frankly if I was involved with a charity seeking a donation of this magnitude I would make darned sure all my friends, relations, passers-by etc etc etc voted for my team using whatever means were provided by the donating organisation. But it seems that this has upset some folk as to the fairness of it all.
But despite the controversy let's stand back and look at all the candidates up for the cash - Eden Project: The Edge; Sherwood: The Living Legend; Black Country Urban Park; Sustrans: Connect2;
Three out of the four offering locally based projects.
And the winner - well that would be the only one with a nationally based project. Small wonder they received more votes really bearing in mind the increased number of people that their project could potentially influence.
So to the delivery plans of the winners to see just how this affects my outdoors access. After a little more digging into the detail behind Sustrans plans I must admit I'm still very unclear on quite what they intend to deliver. No great projects - just lots of joining up bits. And the more I look into the local initiatives, the more unsettling they become being aimed at semi-urban routes, possibly intending to influence some of the local population to walk/cycle to their destinations. But I'd guess more aimed at those lardy arses who think it fine in principle but won't bother to use the facilities anyway, save for an occasional trip with the kids at the height of summer.
I'm trying hard not to get too scathing here after looking at the local project nearest to me. For it proposes provision of a cycleway from a rural area with a very small population, but potentially many airport workers, into the built up areas of Bournemouth. But there's a few drawbacks here.
Firstly - the route already exists on the ground, mostly over existing country back roads, and a bridge across the River Stour. In fact I cycled the route over ten years ago. So its not about provision of anything new. Just upgraded somewhere I'd assume.
Secondly if the route is upgraded it has the potential to increased cycle traffic along paths currently trod mostly by the dog walking brigade, and at one pinch point a number of fishermen. No potential for an increase in conflicting usage here then - wandering dogs, men with expensive fishing gear lying the ground, and cyclists at an increased speed.
Thirdly, the main beneficiary should be the airport workers. But frankly I'd be surprised if many of those not already using the route would choose to do so after its been upgraded (whatever that entails)
And finally - this is not to cover the whole route indicated on the map - but just that piece marked in red i.e. the pinch point referred to earlier. I'd guess that means taking a sometimes narrow and muddy riverside walk, aka locally as a peaceful summertime stroll. And creating a cycle track instead. Great news.
I'd love to be more objective here. To base my view on fact and details. But the plans are really rather sketchy at best, and also carry a couple of interesting warnings as to "the far reaching nature of the scheme" and "not a promise where the route will go".
Huh? So what was the money budgeted for in the £50 million bid then?
In fairness I'll leave this for the present until more detail arises once this project starts on the ground.
But as a walker I fear perhaps the Sustrans bid doesn't really represent much of importance to me and may in fact deter me from using this particular area in the future.
More to come on this I'm sure. Labels: Fitness, Miscellaneous, walks
Sunday, October 28
TV: When Hell Freezes
No, not the title of the Eagles latest offering but another film/documentary from Channel 4 to be screened during prime time this coming Monday (21:00 - 22:35)
Following on after Joe Simpson's 'Beckoning Silence' last week tomorrow's programme relates Douglas Mawson's 1912 Antarctic expedition (or more relevantly the failure of it) that resulted in his 315-mile trek sans his original companions, and most of the food.
I can't presently find out if there's any more of these daring-do tales to come, but the subject matter so far is well chosen, and if Simpson's offering is anything to go by, well put together.
Aren't we outdoorsy folk being spoilt at presentLabels: Fitness, Miscellaneous
Tuesday, October 23
Joe Simpson on Surviving Till 40
No apologies for a follow up the JS piece to mention another of his on-line articles.
The git may be a year younger than me, but I'd bet I don't make nearly as many creaking noises as Mr S when I walk. And for me that is despite far too many years abusing motorcycles in some pretty foul weather/places.
That's mostly astride the bike concerned; Sometimes beneath it;
Ho hum. Never forget how to grow old. Rather disgracefully.Labels: books, Fitness, Miscellaneous
Monday, August 6
Me and my big mouth
Sod's Law will have its little joke, following my spirit rendition about Fitness a few days ago.
A niggling lower back pain has proved a stubborn little distraction over the past week, and finally decided to take up semi-permanent residency. And now I need to think about its presence there's a realisation that it has been twinging for two or maybe even three weeks.
Hhmmm - post Scotland? But like most of these slowly developing complaints (and believe me I complain about things like this!) I can't put my finger on any particular mishap or trigger.
So its off to the chiro once more, and highly likely I'm now a a no show at the upcoming UK Outdoors Bloggers Welsh Meet this weekend.
Curses.
And I recall that the oh so nice Alan Sloman was bringing me my weight in beer. I wonder if he recalls Davenports esteemed service? Now when did that slide quietly out of contemporary life?Labels: Fitness, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Wednesday, August 1
The Butcher's Dog or Fit For Nothing?
Over the last couple of months I've had an few thoughts bouncing around at the back of my brain concerning fitness and its relevance to hill walking and backpacking. There's a lot of tosh, especially in mens magazines, about the 'right' level of physical ability and how to achieve or improve the level each individual may require for their particular lifestyle.
So a timely programme from BBC Radio 4 "Am I Normal" on the very subject, available via the BBC Listen Again service. The second series is picking up from the first, giving a pragmatic view of many myths around medicine and human normality. And bursting a few preconceptions along the way
And hey - guess what? No-one can really agree how to easily measure an individual's fitness level (without a bank of gym/lab based tests) or indeed what exercise regime is necessary to help an individual become 'fit'.
Naturally I've got a few ideas of mine own.
I thought a definition of the term 'Fitness' would be a good starting point but surprisingly a clear definition, or at least one that doesn't include the word 'Fit' is difficult to nail down. This is typical........
Fitness - 'Good health or physical condition, especially as the result of exercise and proper nutrition'
My old fallback Wikipedia has a slightly fuller discussion including this telling phrase "This is often presented in textbooks as a triangle which represent physical, emotional, and mental fitness. Hence, one may be physically fit but may still suffer from a mental illness or have emotional problems. The "ideal triangle" is balanced in all areas"
Hmm - that's a lot more than the usual view that fitness relates to an ability to run a marathon or swim a couple of miles? Only one side of the triangle surely?
Out walking a good level of physical ability is relevant to the route, the geographical terrain and the duration of the exercise. Hence a recovering heart attack victim may find a short walk along a canal side national trail ideal, but not a steep haul to a peak straight up from the valley floor!
So how does that affect what we do?
I'd rate my own level of fitness as "good", but not great. That is I can walk several miles over farmland tracks without needing to stop for more than an occasional rest. More to break a trip up really. I don't pant when walking, and I can carry a reasonable weight as necessary.
I walk regularly throughout the winter months, but when it comes to my first backpacking trip to the hills each year I have one simple rule that I stick with - "Take it easy, and listen to the body"
Its not about how fast I move, or how much ground is covered. Its the fact that I can safely pass over the fellside, at an easy pace, without listening to blood pounding in my ears and with my heart feeling like its trying to come through my chest. If that's the case I'm going too fast or the terrain is not right for my level of physical activity (and that's not a situation I've yet to come across)
The first 1/2 hour or so climbing up the ascent is always a trial, no matter what time of year, and how used to it I am. And I expect to sweat. A lot. But a bit like a runner getting into their stride, once that is over and the body responding to the physical effort I tend to settle down. The first couple of days on a trip the aches and pains can make movement early in the day quite errr .....interesting, but its never so painful that it affects my ability to move and walk safely. And the body naturally detoxs itself over the first few days of concerted physical activity and plenty of food/water for refuelling along the way.
So in my case fitness is the ability of my body to safely perform the physical activity required of it.
As the summer continues my walking speed and my recovery ability picks up (I'm getting 'fitter'), my body naturally responding to the physical stimulation and building additional muscle and sinew to cope with the specific physical challenges I have set it. The key word here - naturally.
So how to get hill fit? Easy. Walk. Out on the hills if possible, or at least start using the stairs. You've got to start somewhere. And do it regularly. That's the key.
Cycling, swimming, running or even a gym all help with cardio vascular fitness but the essential method of getting fitter to walk, is ..... well just to walk. A lot.
I used to run regularly especially using a lot of hill work besides the local seafront, but perversely I found this created an over dependence on those muscles groups required for running. And though my CV was excellent I found increasing problems performing other exercise due to this over specialisation. More prone for instance to ankle and calf muscle injury. Often ending in physio treatment.
So to the other elements of fitness.
I've not seen much in the outdoor mags about this, but without will power, the intent to reach a selected point, that special sense of purpose, you probably won't even manage to get out of the car in the car park.
Many is the time I've felt that I needed to stop, only to look at the map and decide that the rest stop a few miles further on looked attractive, and within minutes of deciding to continue my fitness level and general spirits felt improved. The mind can be a dirty little trickster and it will naturally try for the easy option where possible. Again walking with or without a pack (but regularly) has taught me recognise when I really am finished for the day, or just letting my mind get one over on me (Remember the phrase 'Mind Over Matter'?)
But beware over overriding all the signals from the mind and body. The other side of the coin is knowing when enough is enough for the day.
And finally - enjoy the trip. If you're fretting about the weather, whether sun or rain. If its no longer fun, but a physical and mind numbing trial of stamina. Time to plan a finish.
The hill will always be there another day. It's mostly useful if you can say the same about yourself.
So next time some gym fit hero tells you about their 25 mile multi peak bagging day, that started and finished in the dark, and as they collapse into the chair before you, time to ask the killer question. And why did you enjoy it?
I reckon that's my triangle in place.
And if you want to think more about how to put that route plan together and make the best of your days out, Paul has some excellent observations over on Wilderness WalesLabels: Fitness, Mental Health, Trip Planning
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
So thanks to Claire for her view on mixed format shows from the USA, which in turn led me on to one of her blogs, Nordic Walking USA, to explore how this activity is developing.
A further spin-off is the chance to feedback the specialist information to one of my show contacts and assist their own plans to to improve their on-line activity.
Wins all round!
Labels: Fitness
Mad, Bad & Good To Go
I spotted a BBC news item earlier today trailing the forthcoming BBC2 SpringWatch programme. One theme discussed was the beneficial effects of nature. With personal insight from one of SW's presenters, Bill Oddie, a self confessed sufferer with clinical depression.
This hearkens back to a regular theme mentioned here in the past praising regular activity outdoors as a simple and rapid pick-me-up for mental health improvement. And searching for that reference I spotted it was about the same time last year that I posted on this subject.
Oh dear - should I worry?
Perhaps its because I feel much in need of recharge myself after some difficult work pressures over the last few weeks (Hence the erratic posting - sitting in front of a keyboard for relaxation hasn't really been much of a pleasure recently)
Then there's been the steady stream of ad hoc visitors at home. All usually welcome, but not one after the other like the typical early morning bus to work.
Normally either of these is not a problem. But this Bank Holiday weekend I just feel like pulling up the drawbridge and repelling all boarders (says he mixing his metaphors)
I'd already decided, in light of Ian Fleming's 100th birthday anniversary (huh- how does that work then?) and a passing acquaintance with the film version of his creation James Bond 007, that I'd read through the whole series of Bond books in their published sequence. An idea arising from recent press articles about the man and the depiction of his work on film. For Bond, on film, is not the same as Bond the book character. (Why do films seem to screw up a good plot so very easily?) And as for the plot lines - typically mangled to hell it appears (I read Octopussy during the week - a 30 page short story, and little to do with Bond, except as a catalyst; And definitely nothing about world domination!)
Fleming wrote each new book to lead on from the previous, making for one long story across the books as a whole. It's a great way to approach an author's work if you find the material enjoyable, especially if you read as quickly as myself.
I first tried this a few years ago with the C.P.Snow series "Strangers & Brothers", about 13 books I recall. Trying to remember the total brings to mind pleasant memories of a trip to Hay-On Wye, the UK second-hand book capital, tracking down cheap pulp versions of each edition.
Closer to home I have scoured the local charity shops to find missing items, occasionally turning to E-Bay, or Amazon's excellent used section. For it's often the early part of the series that proves more difficult to find with smaller print runs when the author was less well known.
These days, having the benefit of on-line Library Search & Reservation facilities across three organisations, I can usually line up the books in advance, with only the cost of the reservation fee. True the thrill of the chase may be gone, but with much less cost. And there is also the consideration of what do to with the books once read. My expanding personal library is stored insecurely in large boxes, and as a result the attic floor groans alarmingly at times.
Its been said that "the pen is mightier than the sword" Not quite what was in mind if one night the straining attic floor was to give way, depositing its load onto me below. Peacefully asleep.
Which really is where I should be soon, to recharge my physical battery in preparation for some decent outdoor walkabouts, despite today's blustery south coast winds but unexpected warmth.
There you go.... TV, Health, Film, Education... and even a bit on the Weather at the end.
Where else could you get such a rich variety and still have the option of ignoring it all
;-) Labels: books, Fitness, Mental Health, nature
Monday, March 10
How to walk uphill?
I spotted a whimsical thread recently on the uk.rec.walking newsgroup referring to a Daily Telegraph piece "Science of the bleedin' obvious - It's easier to climb in zigzags"
Taking a quick look, I nodded sagely at the astounding conclusion that "people can use less energy by moving up and down steep slopes in a complicated motion known as zigzagging", smiled at the futility. And then moved on.
A little later I realised something about the new report was niggling away in a corner of my mind. Whilst the root source was unavailable, a précis of the piece provided further detail (and left me thankful that the full report wasn't something I felt obliged to work my way through)
Undoubtedly the conclusion is valid, but more importantly its one that any trainee hill walker quickly learns through painful experiment.
But still that niggle remained, until it dawned on me that I can't recall any of the outdoor books fully explaining the real trick to walking uphill. Well at least to do it with least effort and maximum effect. Lots of examples, but no clear explanation.
So gather closer O Initiate to be introduced to the wonderful principle of Cadence.
Now if you've just followed that last link, you may be mystified as to what on earth I'm talking about. And quite right too. After all, as any Initiate understands the truth is not easily revealed, but needs to be revealed often via a path of self-awareness.
So try this definition of Cadence to see if the mists of confusion clear. What still none the wiser?
Simply put Cadence is the method of keeping an even pace as you walk. You could measure it by paces per minute. Or energy exertion i.e. how fast/sweaty you feel as you move. Some like to use a heartbeat monitor to regulate the activity. But the trick is all in pace length.
Walking downhill, on good ground, you will naturally extend the length of your stride. And uphill the reverse is true. So to gain maximum benefit the key is to keep the walking pace the same (i.e. the number of paces per minute) but to change your stride pattern to match the ground you are covering. By doing this the majority of physical effort actually expended remains largely constant dependant on your physical fitness. And that last point is the problem.
Walking uphill try to keep your pace rate stable, shortening each step to keep that pace regular. But unless you are supremely mountain fit you'll soon find that the effect of your maintaining your pace count usually results in increasingly short steps and eventually very limited progress forward.
It's usually at that point that pace counting gets dropped and a switch over to an increased use of thigh muscles and arm swinging comes into play. And with it an increase in energy expenditure. And that ends up with an outbreak of sweating, something we all have experienced.
Personally my first few days newly out on the hills seem to require a couple of hours sweating profusely until my body works out what is being expected of it, and then starts to kick in with the extra muscle growth as compensation. Which is why the level of fitness I enjoy at the end of a trip is one of many benefits. But unfortunately one difficult to maintain without a regular exposure to the same sort of physical challenge.
But assuming you have the right level of physical fitness, remember the principle of Cadence for an easier ascent.
After all why do you think that the slow but steady Nepalese porter on an expedition will always arrive at camp ahead of the rushing trekker, once the latter has expended their energy excess?
And that observation you will find spread throughout much outdoor literature.
Well done O ex-Initiate (don't forget to pick up a pass certificate on your way out of the cave)
Homework for next time - practise the the 'Use of Will Power' to 'Get Up That Bloody Big Hill'. Swearing optional.
Another one for the FAQ I think.
Labels: Backpacking Advice, Fitness
Wednesday, January 9
Walking & Camping plans for 2008? Mr Kipling says "thats an exceedingly good ...."
Got those plans for your outdoor fun sorted yet?
Or maybe you are one of those people who prefer to work on a less formal approach with some vague thoughts and ideas. They're rattling around your brain at present, waiting to settle into something more concrete.
There's a number of people at this time of year who are busily trying to stick to their new resolutions. In some cases they can seem so vague as to be prone to failure. "Walk 12,000 miles this year"? So how do you know/care about that target after 3 months. Is it 500 or 2,500 miles down then. And if so why stick it - there's always next year after all.
I tend more towards the informal approach personally, but with some lessons used regularly in my day-life (that so-called real existence - bah!) That would be Lessons That Work mind you.
To quote the source usually associated with this simple advice welcome to Rudyard Kipling (the old cake maker himself - not), whose words still stand the test of time and common sense:
"I keep six honest serving-men
(They taught me all I knew);
Their names are What and Why and When
And How and Where and Who"
I know RK is more than a little non PC these days due to the "empire/colonial Englishman abroad" approach to the world of his writings. And such gems as Soudan Expeditionary Force can be hard to fathom per se these days. A man of his times most definitely. However there is a school of thought that believes his work may be read as a deliberate satire warning of the dangers of colonialism and the oppression of native nations. And he was for a time the youngest receiver of the Nobel Prize for literature.
Back to the message anyhow. It's a tenet commonly to be found in the field of journalism, and a litmus test I apply when reading/listening to news reports these days when assessing their ability to report. That is to inform. Rather than, as is increasingly more the case, to 'entertain' with only a few parts of a factual story.
Lets break the advice down to see how it can be used to get help:
What
At present this could be very clear, possibly due to circumstance (complete the TGO Challenge following selection pre Xmas - oops sorry Bob/Andy, or finally get that LEJoG trip going) Or possibly quite nebulous "Get out more wildcamping in '08"
Whichever it is, perhaps its time to make a wish list. Now. And Keep it in your wallet/purse so you can add/change it over the coming weeks as ideas present themselves.
Why
Self evident really to most readers of this site. But it does sometime pay to consider what you actually want to get from it. And that doesn't always mean climbing the highest point, or walking for miles.
Simply being outdoors will suffice for some folk.
When
Easier stuff now. For most of us this will be the warmer months, despite the reports coming back on wildcamping trips over the Xmas period. But that season can be very short if the real planning doesn't get going until June, or waits until after that summer holiday.
How
Not usually a problem, and normally related to transport logistics. But for a change why not try a different way of getting there, and possibly freeing up your mind to other route making opportunities as a result?
Or how about just walking out of that front door and start the trip straight away?
Where
Well I know where I want to go. You've your own choices.
But I do try to include one new location - some form of change/new challenge. And then there's always at least one old favourite in there as well. A return to past pleasures.
Who
If you plan to have company now is the time, whilst spirits seem as low as January finances, to offer some hope to others by getting them on board with your plans. Or perhaps you can fit in with their ideas?
Just some thoughts to play with. Hopefully provocative enough to stir the creative juices.
As I said earlier I'm quite informal in these things. Mostly. But without the self delivered promise of, say, that June week wildcamping in the Lakes, these long dark nights can drag. And what better way to shorten them with some early planning.
But let's not forget the ad-hoc trips which spring from sudden opportunity, and despite fore planning can often turn out to be the most enjoyable of all.
Something to do with stolen fruit being the sweetest perhaps?
Whatever your ideas, best of luck with them. No scratch that last wish. The best of 'working out how to get out into the outdoors to do it for yourself'. Whatever that may be for you.Labels: Fitness, Miscellaneous, walks
Monday, December 17
Sustrans National Lottery win - Pig in a Poke?
Lacking comment elsewhere within the UK outdoor blogging community (unless I've overlooked someone) here's my personal thoughts on the award last week of £50 million to Sustrans’ Connect2 project from the Big Lottery Fund to invest in walking and cycling UK-wide.
When the award was initially announced my reaction was - so what's that to me? I've been aware of Sustrans for some time now, but associated the group mostly with cycle routes. Not a huge interest of mine, but it sounded like a positive move - money to help with access to the great outdoors.
Now with anything related to the "National Lottery" my main reaction to that these days is by now pretty negative.
Why when I attempt to buy my Saturday paper/smokes do I somehow end up queueing behind a string of punters intent on buying multiple combinations of Lottery tickets and Lottery scratch cards - does anyone besides myself actually buy goods in a newsagents these days?
Furthermore I'm not against gambling per se. Indeed last week saw me spending sometime in the local casino during an evening's entertainment (And there's plenty I could write on the plain evidence of the dissociation of the ardent gambler from the surroundings and people around them. A very scary and extreme phenomena to observe for an occasional punter like myself)
But as for the national lottery being a "good" bet - hardly good odds to be honest, but back to the plot....
Sustrans successful bid was "to build a national network of cycle and walking routes". A laudable aim.
And then came news of certain alleged shenanigans with the voting. Oh right. What a surprise. Hasn't the recent rash of TV voting scams really already made the point on this. And frankly if I was involved with a charity seeking a donation of this magnitude I would make darned sure all my friends, relations, passers-by etc etc etc voted for my team using whatever means were provided by the donating organisation. But it seems that this has upset some folk as to the fairness of it all.
But despite the controversy let's stand back and look at all the candidates up for the cash - Eden Project: The Edge; Sherwood: The Living Legend; Black Country Urban Park; Sustrans: Connect2;
Three out of the four offering locally based projects.
And the winner - well that would be the only one with a nationally based project. Small wonder they received more votes really bearing in mind the increased number of people that their project could potentially influence.
So to the delivery plans of the winners to see just how this affects my outdoors access. After a little more digging into the detail behind Sustrans plans I must admit I'm still very unclear on quite what they intend to deliver. No great projects - just lots of joining up bits. And the more I look into the local initiatives, the more unsettling they become being aimed at semi-urban routes, possibly intending to influence some of the local population to walk/cycle to their destinations. But I'd guess more aimed at those lardy arses who think it fine in principle but won't bother to use the facilities anyway, save for an occasional trip with the kids at the height of summer.
I'm trying hard not to get too scathing here after looking at the local project nearest to me. For it proposes provision of a cycleway from a rural area with a very small population, but potentially many airport workers, into the built up areas of Bournemouth. But there's a few drawbacks here.
Firstly - the route already exists on the ground, mostly over existing country back roads, and a bridge across the River Stour. In fact I cycled the route over ten years ago. So its not about provision of anything new. Just upgraded somewhere I'd assume.
Secondly if the route is upgraded it has the potential to increased cycle traffic along paths currently trod mostly by the dog walking brigade, and at one pinch point a number of fishermen. No potential for an increase in conflicting usage here then - wandering dogs, men with expensive fishing gear lying the ground, and cyclists at an increased speed.
Thirdly, the main beneficiary should be the airport workers. But frankly I'd be surprised if many of those not already using the route would choose to do so after its been upgraded (whatever that entails)
And finally - this is not to cover the whole route indicated on the map - but just that piece marked in red i.e. the pinch point referred to earlier. I'd guess that means taking a sometimes narrow and muddy riverside walk, aka locally as a peaceful summertime stroll. And creating a cycle track instead. Great news.
I'd love to be more objective here. To base my view on fact and details. But the plans are really rather sketchy at best, and also carry a couple of interesting warnings as to "the far reaching nature of the scheme" and "not a promise where the route will go".
Huh? So what was the money budgeted for in the £50 million bid then?
In fairness I'll leave this for the present until more detail arises once this project starts on the ground.
But as a walker I fear perhaps the Sustrans bid doesn't really represent much of importance to me and may in fact deter me from using this particular area in the future.
More to come on this I'm sure. Labels: Fitness, Miscellaneous, walks
Sunday, October 28
TV: When Hell Freezes
No, not the title of the Eagles latest offering but another film/documentary from Channel 4 to be screened during prime time this coming Monday (21:00 - 22:35)
Following on after Joe Simpson's 'Beckoning Silence' last week tomorrow's programme relates Douglas Mawson's 1912 Antarctic expedition (or more relevantly the failure of it) that resulted in his 315-mile trek sans his original companions, and most of the food.
I can't presently find out if there's any more of these daring-do tales to come, but the subject matter so far is well chosen, and if Simpson's offering is anything to go by, well put together.
Aren't we outdoorsy folk being spoilt at presentLabels: Fitness, Miscellaneous
Tuesday, October 23
Joe Simpson on Surviving Till 40
No apologies for a follow up the JS piece to mention another of his on-line articles.
The git may be a year younger than me, but I'd bet I don't make nearly as many creaking noises as Mr S when I walk. And for me that is despite far too many years abusing motorcycles in some pretty foul weather/places.
That's mostly astride the bike concerned; Sometimes beneath it;
Ho hum. Never forget how to grow old. Rather disgracefully.Labels: books, Fitness, Miscellaneous
Monday, August 6
Me and my big mouth
Sod's Law will have its little joke, following my spirit rendition about Fitness a few days ago.
A niggling lower back pain has proved a stubborn little distraction over the past week, and finally decided to take up semi-permanent residency. And now I need to think about its presence there's a realisation that it has been twinging for two or maybe even three weeks.
Hhmmm - post Scotland? But like most of these slowly developing complaints (and believe me I complain about things like this!) I can't put my finger on any particular mishap or trigger.
So its off to the chiro once more, and highly likely I'm now a a no show at the upcoming UK Outdoors Bloggers Welsh Meet this weekend.
Curses.
And I recall that the oh so nice Alan Sloman was bringing me my weight in beer. I wonder if he recalls Davenports esteemed service? Now when did that slide quietly out of contemporary life?Labels: Fitness, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Wednesday, August 1
The Butcher's Dog or Fit For Nothing?
Over the last couple of months I've had an few thoughts bouncing around at the back of my brain concerning fitness and its relevance to hill walking and backpacking. There's a lot of tosh, especially in mens magazines, about the 'right' level of physical ability and how to achieve or improve the level each individual may require for their particular lifestyle.
So a timely programme from BBC Radio 4 "Am I Normal" on the very subject, available via the BBC Listen Again service. The second series is picking up from the first, giving a pragmatic view of many myths around medicine and human normality. And bursting a few preconceptions along the way
And hey - guess what? No-one can really agree how to easily measure an individual's fitness level (without a bank of gym/lab based tests) or indeed what exercise regime is necessary to help an individual become 'fit'.
Naturally I've got a few ideas of mine own.
I thought a definition of the term 'Fitness' would be a good starting point but surprisingly a clear definition, or at least one that doesn't include the word 'Fit' is difficult to nail down. This is typical........
Fitness - 'Good health or physical condition, especially as the result of exercise and proper nutrition'
My old fallback Wikipedia has a slightly fuller discussion including this telling phrase "This is often presented in textbooks as a triangle which represent physical, emotional, and mental fitness. Hence, one may be physically fit but may still suffer from a mental illness or have emotional problems. The "ideal triangle" is balanced in all areas"
Hmm - that's a lot more than the usual view that fitness relates to an ability to run a marathon or swim a couple of miles? Only one side of the triangle surely?
Out walking a good level of physical ability is relevant to the route, the geographical terrain and the duration of the exercise. Hence a recovering heart attack victim may find a short walk along a canal side national trail ideal, but not a steep haul to a peak straight up from the valley floor!
So how does that affect what we do?
I'd rate my own level of fitness as "good", but not great. That is I can walk several miles over farmland tracks without needing to stop for more than an occasional rest. More to break a trip up really. I don't pant when walking, and I can carry a reasonable weight as necessary.
I walk regularly throughout the winter months, but when it comes to my first backpacking trip to the hills each year I have one simple rule that I stick with - "Take it easy, and listen to the body"
Its not about how fast I move, or how much ground is covered. Its the fact that I can safely pass over the fellside, at an easy pace, without listening to blood pounding in my ears and with my heart feeling like its trying to come through my chest. If that's the case I'm going too fast or the terrain is not right for my level of physical activity (and that's not a situation I've yet to come across)
The first 1/2 hour or so climbing up the ascent is always a trial, no matter what time of year, and how used to it I am. And I expect to sweat. A lot. But a bit like a runner getting into their stride, once that is over and the body responding to the physical effort I tend to settle down. The first couple of days on a trip the aches and pains can make movement early in the day quite errr .....interesting, but its never so painful that it affects my ability to move and walk safely. And the body naturally detoxs itself over the first few days of concerted physical activity and plenty of food/water for refuelling along the way.
So in my case fitness is the ability of my body to safely perform the physical activity required of it.
As the summer continues my walking speed and my recovery ability picks up (I'm getting 'fitter'), my body naturally responding to the physical stimulation and building additional muscle and sinew to cope with the specific physical challenges I have set it. The key word here - naturally.
So how to get hill fit? Easy. Walk. Out on the hills if possible, or at least start using the stairs. You've got to start somewhere. And do it regularly. That's the key.
Cycling, swimming, running or even a gym all help with cardio vascular fitness but the essential method of getting fitter to walk, is ..... well just to walk. A lot.
I used to run regularly especially using a lot of hill work besides the local seafront, but perversely I found this created an over dependence on those muscles groups required for running. And though my CV was excellent I found increasing problems performing other exercise due to this over specialisation. More prone for instance to ankle and calf muscle injury. Often ending in physio treatment.
So to the other elements of fitness.
I've not seen much in the outdoor mags about this, but without will power, the intent to reach a selected point, that special sense of purpose, you probably won't even manage to get out of the car in the car park.
Many is the time I've felt that I needed to stop, only to look at the map and decide that the rest stop a few miles further on looked attractive, and within minutes of deciding to continue my fitness level and general spirits felt improved. The mind can be a dirty little trickster and it will naturally try for the easy option where possible. Again walking with or without a pack (but regularly) has taught me recognise when I really am finished for the day, or just letting my mind get one over on me (Remember the phrase 'Mind Over Matter'?)
But beware over overriding all the signals from the mind and body. The other side of the coin is knowing when enough is enough for the day.
And finally - enjoy the trip. If you're fretting about the weather, whether sun or rain. If its no longer fun, but a physical and mind numbing trial of stamina. Time to plan a finish.
The hill will always be there another day. It's mostly useful if you can say the same about yourself.
So next time some gym fit hero tells you about their 25 mile multi peak bagging day, that started and finished in the dark, and as they collapse into the chair before you, time to ask the killer question. And why did you enjoy it?
I reckon that's my triangle in place.
And if you want to think more about how to put that route plan together and make the best of your days out, Paul has some excellent observations over on Wilderness WalesLabels: Fitness, Mental Health, Trip Planning
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
This hearkens back to a regular theme mentioned here in the past praising regular activity outdoors as a simple and rapid pick-me-up for mental health improvement. And searching for that reference I spotted it was about the same time last year that I posted on this subject.
Oh dear - should I worry?
Perhaps its because I feel much in need of recharge myself after some difficult work pressures over the last few weeks (Hence the erratic posting - sitting in front of a keyboard for relaxation hasn't really been much of a pleasure recently)
Then there's been the steady stream of ad hoc visitors at home. All usually welcome, but not one after the other like the typical early morning bus to work.
Normally either of these is not a problem. But this Bank Holiday weekend I just feel like pulling up the drawbridge and repelling all boarders (says he mixing his metaphors)
I'd already decided, in light of Ian Fleming's 100th birthday anniversary (huh- how does that work then?) and a passing acquaintance with the film version of his creation James Bond 007, that I'd read through the whole series of Bond books in their published sequence. An idea arising from recent press articles about the man and the depiction of his work on film. For Bond, on film, is not the same as Bond the book character. (Why do films seem to screw up a good plot so very easily?) And as for the plot lines - typically mangled to hell it appears (I read Octopussy during the week - a 30 page short story, and little to do with Bond, except as a catalyst; And definitely nothing about world domination!)
Fleming wrote each new book to lead on from the previous, making for one long story across the books as a whole. It's a great way to approach an author's work if you find the material enjoyable, especially if you read as quickly as myself.
I first tried this a few years ago with the C.P.Snow series "Strangers & Brothers", about 13 books I recall. Trying to remember the total brings to mind pleasant memories of a trip to Hay-On Wye, the UK second-hand book capital, tracking down cheap pulp versions of each edition.
Closer to home I have scoured the local charity shops to find missing items, occasionally turning to E-Bay, or Amazon's excellent used section. For it's often the early part of the series that proves more difficult to find with smaller print runs when the author was less well known.
These days, having the benefit of on-line Library Search & Reservation facilities across three organisations, I can usually line up the books in advance, with only the cost of the reservation fee. True the thrill of the chase may be gone, but with much less cost. And there is also the consideration of what do to with the books once read. My expanding personal library is stored insecurely in large boxes, and as a result the attic floor groans alarmingly at times.
Its been said that "the pen is mightier than the sword" Not quite what was in mind if one night the straining attic floor was to give way, depositing its load onto me below. Peacefully asleep.
Which really is where I should be soon, to recharge my physical battery in preparation for some decent outdoor walkabouts, despite today's blustery south coast winds but unexpected warmth.
There you go.... TV, Health, Film, Education... and even a bit on the Weather at the end.
Where else could you get such a rich variety and still have the option of ignoring it all
;-)
Labels: books, Fitness, Mental Health, nature
How to walk uphill?
I spotted a whimsical thread recently on the uk.rec.walking newsgroup referring to a Daily Telegraph piece "Science of the bleedin' obvious - It's easier to climb in zigzags"
Taking a quick look, I nodded sagely at the astounding conclusion that "people can use less energy by moving up and down steep slopes in a complicated motion known as zigzagging", smiled at the futility. And then moved on.
A little later I realised something about the new report was niggling away in a corner of my mind. Whilst the root source was unavailable, a précis of the piece provided further detail (and left me thankful that the full report wasn't something I felt obliged to work my way through)
Undoubtedly the conclusion is valid, but more importantly its one that any trainee hill walker quickly learns through painful experiment.
But still that niggle remained, until it dawned on me that I can't recall any of the outdoor books fully explaining the real trick to walking uphill. Well at least to do it with least effort and maximum effect. Lots of examples, but no clear explanation.
So gather closer O Initiate to be introduced to the wonderful principle of Cadence.
Now if you've just followed that last link, you may be mystified as to what on earth I'm talking about. And quite right too. After all, as any Initiate understands the truth is not easily revealed, but needs to be revealed often via a path of self-awareness.
So try this definition of Cadence to see if the mists of confusion clear. What still none the wiser?
Simply put Cadence is the method of keeping an even pace as you walk. You could measure it by paces per minute. Or energy exertion i.e. how fast/sweaty you feel as you move. Some like to use a heartbeat monitor to regulate the activity. But the trick is all in pace length.
Walking downhill, on good ground, you will naturally extend the length of your stride. And uphill the reverse is true. So to gain maximum benefit the key is to keep the walking pace the same (i.e. the number of paces per minute) but to change your stride pattern to match the ground you are covering. By doing this the majority of physical effort actually expended remains largely constant dependant on your physical fitness. And that last point is the problem.
Walking uphill try to keep your pace rate stable, shortening each step to keep that pace regular. But unless you are supremely mountain fit you'll soon find that the effect of your maintaining your pace count usually results in increasingly short steps and eventually very limited progress forward.
It's usually at that point that pace counting gets dropped and a switch over to an increased use of thigh muscles and arm swinging comes into play. And with it an increase in energy expenditure. And that ends up with an outbreak of sweating, something we all have experienced.
Personally my first few days newly out on the hills seem to require a couple of hours sweating profusely until my body works out what is being expected of it, and then starts to kick in with the extra muscle growth as compensation. Which is why the level of fitness I enjoy at the end of a trip is one of many benefits. But unfortunately one difficult to maintain without a regular exposure to the same sort of physical challenge.
But assuming you have the right level of physical fitness, remember the principle of Cadence for an easier ascent.
After all why do you think that the slow but steady Nepalese porter on an expedition will always arrive at camp ahead of the rushing trekker, once the latter has expended their energy excess?
And that observation you will find spread throughout much outdoor literature.
Well done O ex-Initiate (don't forget to pick up a pass certificate on your way out of the cave)
Homework for next time - practise the the 'Use of Will Power' to 'Get Up That Bloody Big Hill'. Swearing optional.
Another one for the FAQ I think.
Labels: Backpacking Advice, Fitness
Wednesday, January 9
Walking & Camping plans for 2008? Mr Kipling says "thats an exceedingly good ...."
Got those plans for your outdoor fun sorted yet?
Or maybe you are one of those people who prefer to work on a less formal approach with some vague thoughts and ideas. They're rattling around your brain at present, waiting to settle into something more concrete.
There's a number of people at this time of year who are busily trying to stick to their new resolutions. In some cases they can seem so vague as to be prone to failure. "Walk 12,000 miles this year"? So how do you know/care about that target after 3 months. Is it 500 or 2,500 miles down then. And if so why stick it - there's always next year after all.
I tend more towards the informal approach personally, but with some lessons used regularly in my day-life (that so-called real existence - bah!) That would be Lessons That Work mind you.
To quote the source usually associated with this simple advice welcome to Rudyard Kipling (the old cake maker himself - not), whose words still stand the test of time and common sense:
"I keep six honest serving-men
(They taught me all I knew);
Their names are What and Why and When
And How and Where and Who"
I know RK is more than a little non PC these days due to the "empire/colonial Englishman abroad" approach to the world of his writings. And such gems as Soudan Expeditionary Force can be hard to fathom per se these days. A man of his times most definitely. However there is a school of thought that believes his work may be read as a deliberate satire warning of the dangers of colonialism and the oppression of native nations. And he was for a time the youngest receiver of the Nobel Prize for literature.
Back to the message anyhow. It's a tenet commonly to be found in the field of journalism, and a litmus test I apply when reading/listening to news reports these days when assessing their ability to report. That is to inform. Rather than, as is increasingly more the case, to 'entertain' with only a few parts of a factual story.
Lets break the advice down to see how it can be used to get help:
What
At present this could be very clear, possibly due to circumstance (complete the TGO Challenge following selection pre Xmas - oops sorry Bob/Andy, or finally get that LEJoG trip going) Or possibly quite nebulous "Get out more wildcamping in '08"
Whichever it is, perhaps its time to make a wish list. Now. And Keep it in your wallet/purse so you can add/change it over the coming weeks as ideas present themselves.
Why
Self evident really to most readers of this site. But it does sometime pay to consider what you actually want to get from it. And that doesn't always mean climbing the highest point, or walking for miles.
Simply being outdoors will suffice for some folk.
When
Easier stuff now. For most of us this will be the warmer months, despite the reports coming back on wildcamping trips over the Xmas period. But that season can be very short if the real planning doesn't get going until June, or waits until after that summer holiday.
How
Not usually a problem, and normally related to transport logistics. But for a change why not try a different way of getting there, and possibly freeing up your mind to other route making opportunities as a result?
Or how about just walking out of that front door and start the trip straight away?
Where
Well I know where I want to go. You've your own choices.
But I do try to include one new location - some form of change/new challenge. And then there's always at least one old favourite in there as well. A return to past pleasures.
Who
If you plan to have company now is the time, whilst spirits seem as low as January finances, to offer some hope to others by getting them on board with your plans. Or perhaps you can fit in with their ideas?
Just some thoughts to play with. Hopefully provocative enough to stir the creative juices.
As I said earlier I'm quite informal in these things. Mostly. But without the self delivered promise of, say, that June week wildcamping in the Lakes, these long dark nights can drag. And what better way to shorten them with some early planning.
But let's not forget the ad-hoc trips which spring from sudden opportunity, and despite fore planning can often turn out to be the most enjoyable of all.
Something to do with stolen fruit being the sweetest perhaps?
Whatever your ideas, best of luck with them. No scratch that last wish. The best of 'working out how to get out into the outdoors to do it for yourself'. Whatever that may be for you.Labels: Fitness, Miscellaneous, walks
Monday, December 17
Sustrans National Lottery win - Pig in a Poke?
Lacking comment elsewhere within the UK outdoor blogging community (unless I've overlooked someone) here's my personal thoughts on the award last week of £50 million to Sustrans’ Connect2 project from the Big Lottery Fund to invest in walking and cycling UK-wide.
When the award was initially announced my reaction was - so what's that to me? I've been aware of Sustrans for some time now, but associated the group mostly with cycle routes. Not a huge interest of mine, but it sounded like a positive move - money to help with access to the great outdoors.
Now with anything related to the "National Lottery" my main reaction to that these days is by now pretty negative.
Why when I attempt to buy my Saturday paper/smokes do I somehow end up queueing behind a string of punters intent on buying multiple combinations of Lottery tickets and Lottery scratch cards - does anyone besides myself actually buy goods in a newsagents these days?
Furthermore I'm not against gambling per se. Indeed last week saw me spending sometime in the local casino during an evening's entertainment (And there's plenty I could write on the plain evidence of the dissociation of the ardent gambler from the surroundings and people around them. A very scary and extreme phenomena to observe for an occasional punter like myself)
But as for the national lottery being a "good" bet - hardly good odds to be honest, but back to the plot....
Sustrans successful bid was "to build a national network of cycle and walking routes". A laudable aim.
And then came news of certain alleged shenanigans with the voting. Oh right. What a surprise. Hasn't the recent rash of TV voting scams really already made the point on this. And frankly if I was involved with a charity seeking a donation of this magnitude I would make darned sure all my friends, relations, passers-by etc etc etc voted for my team using whatever means were provided by the donating organisation. But it seems that this has upset some folk as to the fairness of it all.
But despite the controversy let's stand back and look at all the candidates up for the cash - Eden Project: The Edge; Sherwood: The Living Legend; Black Country Urban Park; Sustrans: Connect2;
Three out of the four offering locally based projects.
And the winner - well that would be the only one with a nationally based project. Small wonder they received more votes really bearing in mind the increased number of people that their project could potentially influence.
So to the delivery plans of the winners to see just how this affects my outdoors access. After a little more digging into the detail behind Sustrans plans I must admit I'm still very unclear on quite what they intend to deliver. No great projects - just lots of joining up bits. And the more I look into the local initiatives, the more unsettling they become being aimed at semi-urban routes, possibly intending to influence some of the local population to walk/cycle to their destinations. But I'd guess more aimed at those lardy arses who think it fine in principle but won't bother to use the facilities anyway, save for an occasional trip with the kids at the height of summer.
I'm trying hard not to get too scathing here after looking at the local project nearest to me. For it proposes provision of a cycleway from a rural area with a very small population, but potentially many airport workers, into the built up areas of Bournemouth. But there's a few drawbacks here.
Firstly - the route already exists on the ground, mostly over existing country back roads, and a bridge across the River Stour. In fact I cycled the route over ten years ago. So its not about provision of anything new. Just upgraded somewhere I'd assume.
Secondly if the route is upgraded it has the potential to increased cycle traffic along paths currently trod mostly by the dog walking brigade, and at one pinch point a number of fishermen. No potential for an increase in conflicting usage here then - wandering dogs, men with expensive fishing gear lying the ground, and cyclists at an increased speed.
Thirdly, the main beneficiary should be the airport workers. But frankly I'd be surprised if many of those not already using the route would choose to do so after its been upgraded (whatever that entails)
And finally - this is not to cover the whole route indicated on the map - but just that piece marked in red i.e. the pinch point referred to earlier. I'd guess that means taking a sometimes narrow and muddy riverside walk, aka locally as a peaceful summertime stroll. And creating a cycle track instead. Great news.
I'd love to be more objective here. To base my view on fact and details. But the plans are really rather sketchy at best, and also carry a couple of interesting warnings as to "the far reaching nature of the scheme" and "not a promise where the route will go".
Huh? So what was the money budgeted for in the £50 million bid then?
In fairness I'll leave this for the present until more detail arises once this project starts on the ground.
But as a walker I fear perhaps the Sustrans bid doesn't really represent much of importance to me and may in fact deter me from using this particular area in the future.
More to come on this I'm sure. Labels: Fitness, Miscellaneous, walks
Sunday, October 28
TV: When Hell Freezes
No, not the title of the Eagles latest offering but another film/documentary from Channel 4 to be screened during prime time this coming Monday (21:00 - 22:35)
Following on after Joe Simpson's 'Beckoning Silence' last week tomorrow's programme relates Douglas Mawson's 1912 Antarctic expedition (or more relevantly the failure of it) that resulted in his 315-mile trek sans his original companions, and most of the food.
I can't presently find out if there's any more of these daring-do tales to come, but the subject matter so far is well chosen, and if Simpson's offering is anything to go by, well put together.
Aren't we outdoorsy folk being spoilt at presentLabels: Fitness, Miscellaneous
Tuesday, October 23
Joe Simpson on Surviving Till 40
No apologies for a follow up the JS piece to mention another of his on-line articles.
The git may be a year younger than me, but I'd bet I don't make nearly as many creaking noises as Mr S when I walk. And for me that is despite far too many years abusing motorcycles in some pretty foul weather/places.
That's mostly astride the bike concerned; Sometimes beneath it;
Ho hum. Never forget how to grow old. Rather disgracefully.Labels: books, Fitness, Miscellaneous
Monday, August 6
Me and my big mouth
Sod's Law will have its little joke, following my spirit rendition about Fitness a few days ago.
A niggling lower back pain has proved a stubborn little distraction over the past week, and finally decided to take up semi-permanent residency. And now I need to think about its presence there's a realisation that it has been twinging for two or maybe even three weeks.
Hhmmm - post Scotland? But like most of these slowly developing complaints (and believe me I complain about things like this!) I can't put my finger on any particular mishap or trigger.
So its off to the chiro once more, and highly likely I'm now a a no show at the upcoming UK Outdoors Bloggers Welsh Meet this weekend.
Curses.
And I recall that the oh so nice Alan Sloman was bringing me my weight in beer. I wonder if he recalls Davenports esteemed service? Now when did that slide quietly out of contemporary life?Labels: Fitness, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Wednesday, August 1
The Butcher's Dog or Fit For Nothing?
Over the last couple of months I've had an few thoughts bouncing around at the back of my brain concerning fitness and its relevance to hill walking and backpacking. There's a lot of tosh, especially in mens magazines, about the 'right' level of physical ability and how to achieve or improve the level each individual may require for their particular lifestyle.
So a timely programme from BBC Radio 4 "Am I Normal" on the very subject, available via the BBC Listen Again service. The second series is picking up from the first, giving a pragmatic view of many myths around medicine and human normality. And bursting a few preconceptions along the way
And hey - guess what? No-one can really agree how to easily measure an individual's fitness level (without a bank of gym/lab based tests) or indeed what exercise regime is necessary to help an individual become 'fit'.
Naturally I've got a few ideas of mine own.
I thought a definition of the term 'Fitness' would be a good starting point but surprisingly a clear definition, or at least one that doesn't include the word 'Fit' is difficult to nail down. This is typical........
Fitness - 'Good health or physical condition, especially as the result of exercise and proper nutrition'
My old fallback Wikipedia has a slightly fuller discussion including this telling phrase "This is often presented in textbooks as a triangle which represent physical, emotional, and mental fitness. Hence, one may be physically fit but may still suffer from a mental illness or have emotional problems. The "ideal triangle" is balanced in all areas"
Hmm - that's a lot more than the usual view that fitness relates to an ability to run a marathon or swim a couple of miles? Only one side of the triangle surely?
Out walking a good level of physical ability is relevant to the route, the geographical terrain and the duration of the exercise. Hence a recovering heart attack victim may find a short walk along a canal side national trail ideal, but not a steep haul to a peak straight up from the valley floor!
So how does that affect what we do?
I'd rate my own level of fitness as "good", but not great. That is I can walk several miles over farmland tracks without needing to stop for more than an occasional rest. More to break a trip up really. I don't pant when walking, and I can carry a reasonable weight as necessary.
I walk regularly throughout the winter months, but when it comes to my first backpacking trip to the hills each year I have one simple rule that I stick with - "Take it easy, and listen to the body"
Its not about how fast I move, or how much ground is covered. Its the fact that I can safely pass over the fellside, at an easy pace, without listening to blood pounding in my ears and with my heart feeling like its trying to come through my chest. If that's the case I'm going too fast or the terrain is not right for my level of physical activity (and that's not a situation I've yet to come across)
The first 1/2 hour or so climbing up the ascent is always a trial, no matter what time of year, and how used to it I am. And I expect to sweat. A lot. But a bit like a runner getting into their stride, once that is over and the body responding to the physical effort I tend to settle down. The first couple of days on a trip the aches and pains can make movement early in the day quite errr .....interesting, but its never so painful that it affects my ability to move and walk safely. And the body naturally detoxs itself over the first few days of concerted physical activity and plenty of food/water for refuelling along the way.
So in my case fitness is the ability of my body to safely perform the physical activity required of it.
As the summer continues my walking speed and my recovery ability picks up (I'm getting 'fitter'), my body naturally responding to the physical stimulation and building additional muscle and sinew to cope with the specific physical challenges I have set it. The key word here - naturally.
So how to get hill fit? Easy. Walk. Out on the hills if possible, or at least start using the stairs. You've got to start somewhere. And do it regularly. That's the key.
Cycling, swimming, running or even a gym all help with cardio vascular fitness but the essential method of getting fitter to walk, is ..... well just to walk. A lot.
I used to run regularly especially using a lot of hill work besides the local seafront, but perversely I found this created an over dependence on those muscles groups required for running. And though my CV was excellent I found increasing problems performing other exercise due to this over specialisation. More prone for instance to ankle and calf muscle injury. Often ending in physio treatment.
So to the other elements of fitness.
I've not seen much in the outdoor mags about this, but without will power, the intent to reach a selected point, that special sense of purpose, you probably won't even manage to get out of the car in the car park.
Many is the time I've felt that I needed to stop, only to look at the map and decide that the rest stop a few miles further on looked attractive, and within minutes of deciding to continue my fitness level and general spirits felt improved. The mind can be a dirty little trickster and it will naturally try for the easy option where possible. Again walking with or without a pack (but regularly) has taught me recognise when I really am finished for the day, or just letting my mind get one over on me (Remember the phrase 'Mind Over Matter'?)
But beware over overriding all the signals from the mind and body. The other side of the coin is knowing when enough is enough for the day.
And finally - enjoy the trip. If you're fretting about the weather, whether sun or rain. If its no longer fun, but a physical and mind numbing trial of stamina. Time to plan a finish.
The hill will always be there another day. It's mostly useful if you can say the same about yourself.
So next time some gym fit hero tells you about their 25 mile multi peak bagging day, that started and finished in the dark, and as they collapse into the chair before you, time to ask the killer question. And why did you enjoy it?
I reckon that's my triangle in place.
And if you want to think more about how to put that route plan together and make the best of your days out, Paul has some excellent observations over on Wilderness WalesLabels: Fitness, Mental Health, Trip Planning
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
I spotted a whimsical thread recently on the uk.rec.walking newsgroup referring to a Daily Telegraph piece "Science of the bleedin' obvious - It's easier to climb in zigzags"
Taking a quick look, I nodded sagely at the astounding conclusion that "people can use less energy by moving up and down steep slopes in a complicated motion known as zigzagging", smiled at the futility. And then moved on.
A little later I realised something about the new report was niggling away in a corner of my mind. Whilst the root source was unavailable, a précis of the piece provided further detail (and left me thankful that the full report wasn't something I felt obliged to work my way through)
Undoubtedly the conclusion is valid, but more importantly its one that any trainee hill walker quickly learns through painful experiment.
But still that niggle remained, until it dawned on me that I can't recall any of the outdoor books fully explaining the real trick to walking uphill. Well at least to do it with least effort and maximum effect. Lots of examples, but no clear explanation.
So gather closer O Initiate to be introduced to the wonderful principle of Cadence.
Now if you've just followed that last link, you may be mystified as to what on earth I'm talking about. And quite right too. After all, as any Initiate understands the truth is not easily revealed, but needs to be revealed often via a path of self-awareness.
So try this definition of Cadence to see if the mists of confusion clear. What still none the wiser?
Simply put Cadence is the method of keeping an even pace as you walk. You could measure it by paces per minute. Or energy exertion i.e. how fast/sweaty you feel as you move. Some like to use a heartbeat monitor to regulate the activity. But the trick is all in pace length.
Walking downhill, on good ground, you will naturally extend the length of your stride. And uphill the reverse is true. So to gain maximum benefit the key is to keep the walking pace the same (i.e. the number of paces per minute) but to change your stride pattern to match the ground you are covering. By doing this the majority of physical effort actually expended remains largely constant dependant on your physical fitness. And that last point is the problem.
Walking uphill try to keep your pace rate stable, shortening each step to keep that pace regular. But unless you are supremely mountain fit you'll soon find that the effect of your maintaining your pace count usually results in increasingly short steps and eventually very limited progress forward.
It's usually at that point that pace counting gets dropped and a switch over to an increased use of thigh muscles and arm swinging comes into play. And with it an increase in energy expenditure. And that ends up with an outbreak of sweating, something we all have experienced.
Personally my first few days newly out on the hills seem to require a couple of hours sweating profusely until my body works out what is being expected of it, and then starts to kick in with the extra muscle growth as compensation. Which is why the level of fitness I enjoy at the end of a trip is one of many benefits. But unfortunately one difficult to maintain without a regular exposure to the same sort of physical challenge.
But assuming you have the right level of physical fitness, remember the principle of Cadence for an easier ascent.
After all why do you think that the slow but steady Nepalese porter on an expedition will always arrive at camp ahead of the rushing trekker, once the latter has expended their energy excess?
And that observation you will find spread throughout much outdoor literature.
Well done O ex-Initiate (don't forget to pick up a pass certificate on your way out of the cave)
Homework for next time - practise the the 'Use of Will Power' to 'Get Up That Bloody Big Hill'. Swearing optional.
Another one for the FAQ I think.
Labels: Backpacking Advice, Fitness
Walking & Camping plans for 2008? Mr Kipling says "thats an exceedingly good ...."
Got those plans for your outdoor fun sorted yet?
Or maybe you are one of those people who prefer to work on a less formal approach with some vague thoughts and ideas. They're rattling around your brain at present, waiting to settle into something more concrete.
There's a number of people at this time of year who are busily trying to stick to their new resolutions. In some cases they can seem so vague as to be prone to failure. "Walk 12,000 miles this year"? So how do you know/care about that target after 3 months. Is it 500 or 2,500 miles down then. And if so why stick it - there's always next year after all.
I tend more towards the informal approach personally, but with some lessons used regularly in my day-life (that so-called real existence - bah!) That would be Lessons That Work mind you.
To quote the source usually associated with this simple advice welcome to Rudyard Kipling (the old cake maker himself - not), whose words still stand the test of time and common sense:
"I keep six honest serving-men
(They taught me all I knew);
Their names are What and Why and When
And How and Where and Who"
I know RK is more than a little non PC these days due to the "empire/colonial Englishman abroad" approach to the world of his writings. And such gems as Soudan Expeditionary Force can be hard to fathom per se these days. A man of his times most definitely. However there is a school of thought that believes his work may be read as a deliberate satire warning of the dangers of colonialism and the oppression of native nations. And he was for a time the youngest receiver of the Nobel Prize for literature.
Back to the message anyhow. It's a tenet commonly to be found in the field of journalism, and a litmus test I apply when reading/listening to news reports these days when assessing their ability to report. That is to inform. Rather than, as is increasingly more the case, to 'entertain' with only a few parts of a factual story.
Lets break the advice down to see how it can be used to get help:
What
At present this could be very clear, possibly due to circumstance (complete the TGO Challenge following selection pre Xmas - oops sorry Bob/Andy, or finally get that LEJoG trip going) Or possibly quite nebulous "Get out more wildcamping in '08"
Whichever it is, perhaps its time to make a wish list. Now. And Keep it in your wallet/purse so you can add/change it over the coming weeks as ideas present themselves.
Why
Self evident really to most readers of this site. But it does sometime pay to consider what you actually want to get from it. And that doesn't always mean climbing the highest point, or walking for miles.
Simply being outdoors will suffice for some folk.
When
Easier stuff now. For most of us this will be the warmer months, despite the reports coming back on wildcamping trips over the Xmas period. But that season can be very short if the real planning doesn't get going until June, or waits until after that summer holiday.
How
Not usually a problem, and normally related to transport logistics. But for a change why not try a different way of getting there, and possibly freeing up your mind to other route making opportunities as a result?
Or how about just walking out of that front door and start the trip straight away?
Where
Well I know where I want to go. You've your own choices.
But I do try to include one new location - some form of change/new challenge. And then there's always at least one old favourite in there as well. A return to past pleasures.
Who
If you plan to have company now is the time, whilst spirits seem as low as January finances, to offer some hope to others by getting them on board with your plans. Or perhaps you can fit in with their ideas?
Just some thoughts to play with. Hopefully provocative enough to stir the creative juices.
As I said earlier I'm quite informal in these things. Mostly. But without the self delivered promise of, say, that June week wildcamping in the Lakes, these long dark nights can drag. And what better way to shorten them with some early planning.
But let's not forget the ad-hoc trips which spring from sudden opportunity, and despite fore planning can often turn out to be the most enjoyable of all.
Something to do with stolen fruit being the sweetest perhaps?
Whatever your ideas, best of luck with them. No scratch that last wish. The best of 'working out how to get out into the outdoors to do it for yourself'. Whatever that may be for you.Labels: Fitness, Miscellaneous, walks
Monday, December 17
Sustrans National Lottery win - Pig in a Poke?
Lacking comment elsewhere within the UK outdoor blogging community (unless I've overlooked someone) here's my personal thoughts on the award last week of £50 million to Sustrans’ Connect2 project from the Big Lottery Fund to invest in walking and cycling UK-wide.
When the award was initially announced my reaction was - so what's that to me? I've been aware of Sustrans for some time now, but associated the group mostly with cycle routes. Not a huge interest of mine, but it sounded like a positive move - money to help with access to the great outdoors.
Now with anything related to the "National Lottery" my main reaction to that these days is by now pretty negative.
Why when I attempt to buy my Saturday paper/smokes do I somehow end up queueing behind a string of punters intent on buying multiple combinations of Lottery tickets and Lottery scratch cards - does anyone besides myself actually buy goods in a newsagents these days?
Furthermore I'm not against gambling per se. Indeed last week saw me spending sometime in the local casino during an evening's entertainment (And there's plenty I could write on the plain evidence of the dissociation of the ardent gambler from the surroundings and people around them. A very scary and extreme phenomena to observe for an occasional punter like myself)
But as for the national lottery being a "good" bet - hardly good odds to be honest, but back to the plot....
Sustrans successful bid was "to build a national network of cycle and walking routes". A laudable aim.
And then came news of certain alleged shenanigans with the voting. Oh right. What a surprise. Hasn't the recent rash of TV voting scams really already made the point on this. And frankly if I was involved with a charity seeking a donation of this magnitude I would make darned sure all my friends, relations, passers-by etc etc etc voted for my team using whatever means were provided by the donating organisation. But it seems that this has upset some folk as to the fairness of it all.
But despite the controversy let's stand back and look at all the candidates up for the cash - Eden Project: The Edge; Sherwood: The Living Legend; Black Country Urban Park; Sustrans: Connect2;
Three out of the four offering locally based projects.
And the winner - well that would be the only one with a nationally based project. Small wonder they received more votes really bearing in mind the increased number of people that their project could potentially influence.
So to the delivery plans of the winners to see just how this affects my outdoors access. After a little more digging into the detail behind Sustrans plans I must admit I'm still very unclear on quite what they intend to deliver. No great projects - just lots of joining up bits. And the more I look into the local initiatives, the more unsettling they become being aimed at semi-urban routes, possibly intending to influence some of the local population to walk/cycle to their destinations. But I'd guess more aimed at those lardy arses who think it fine in principle but won't bother to use the facilities anyway, save for an occasional trip with the kids at the height of summer.
I'm trying hard not to get too scathing here after looking at the local project nearest to me. For it proposes provision of a cycleway from a rural area with a very small population, but potentially many airport workers, into the built up areas of Bournemouth. But there's a few drawbacks here.
Firstly - the route already exists on the ground, mostly over existing country back roads, and a bridge across the River Stour. In fact I cycled the route over ten years ago. So its not about provision of anything new. Just upgraded somewhere I'd assume.
Secondly if the route is upgraded it has the potential to increased cycle traffic along paths currently trod mostly by the dog walking brigade, and at one pinch point a number of fishermen. No potential for an increase in conflicting usage here then - wandering dogs, men with expensive fishing gear lying the ground, and cyclists at an increased speed.
Thirdly, the main beneficiary should be the airport workers. But frankly I'd be surprised if many of those not already using the route would choose to do so after its been upgraded (whatever that entails)
And finally - this is not to cover the whole route indicated on the map - but just that piece marked in red i.e. the pinch point referred to earlier. I'd guess that means taking a sometimes narrow and muddy riverside walk, aka locally as a peaceful summertime stroll. And creating a cycle track instead. Great news.
I'd love to be more objective here. To base my view on fact and details. But the plans are really rather sketchy at best, and also carry a couple of interesting warnings as to "the far reaching nature of the scheme" and "not a promise where the route will go".
Huh? So what was the money budgeted for in the £50 million bid then?
In fairness I'll leave this for the present until more detail arises once this project starts on the ground.
But as a walker I fear perhaps the Sustrans bid doesn't really represent much of importance to me and may in fact deter me from using this particular area in the future.
More to come on this I'm sure. Labels: Fitness, Miscellaneous, walks
Sunday, October 28
TV: When Hell Freezes
No, not the title of the Eagles latest offering but another film/documentary from Channel 4 to be screened during prime time this coming Monday (21:00 - 22:35)
Following on after Joe Simpson's 'Beckoning Silence' last week tomorrow's programme relates Douglas Mawson's 1912 Antarctic expedition (or more relevantly the failure of it) that resulted in his 315-mile trek sans his original companions, and most of the food.
I can't presently find out if there's any more of these daring-do tales to come, but the subject matter so far is well chosen, and if Simpson's offering is anything to go by, well put together.
Aren't we outdoorsy folk being spoilt at presentLabels: Fitness, Miscellaneous
Tuesday, October 23
Joe Simpson on Surviving Till 40
No apologies for a follow up the JS piece to mention another of his on-line articles.
The git may be a year younger than me, but I'd bet I don't make nearly as many creaking noises as Mr S when I walk. And for me that is despite far too many years abusing motorcycles in some pretty foul weather/places.
That's mostly astride the bike concerned; Sometimes beneath it;
Ho hum. Never forget how to grow old. Rather disgracefully.Labels: books, Fitness, Miscellaneous
Monday, August 6
Me and my big mouth
Sod's Law will have its little joke, following my spirit rendition about Fitness a few days ago.
A niggling lower back pain has proved a stubborn little distraction over the past week, and finally decided to take up semi-permanent residency. And now I need to think about its presence there's a realisation that it has been twinging for two or maybe even three weeks.
Hhmmm - post Scotland? But like most of these slowly developing complaints (and believe me I complain about things like this!) I can't put my finger on any particular mishap or trigger.
So its off to the chiro once more, and highly likely I'm now a a no show at the upcoming UK Outdoors Bloggers Welsh Meet this weekend.
Curses.
And I recall that the oh so nice Alan Sloman was bringing me my weight in beer. I wonder if he recalls Davenports esteemed service? Now when did that slide quietly out of contemporary life?Labels: Fitness, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Wednesday, August 1
The Butcher's Dog or Fit For Nothing?
Over the last couple of months I've had an few thoughts bouncing around at the back of my brain concerning fitness and its relevance to hill walking and backpacking. There's a lot of tosh, especially in mens magazines, about the 'right' level of physical ability and how to achieve or improve the level each individual may require for their particular lifestyle.
So a timely programme from BBC Radio 4 "Am I Normal" on the very subject, available via the BBC Listen Again service. The second series is picking up from the first, giving a pragmatic view of many myths around medicine and human normality. And bursting a few preconceptions along the way
And hey - guess what? No-one can really agree how to easily measure an individual's fitness level (without a bank of gym/lab based tests) or indeed what exercise regime is necessary to help an individual become 'fit'.
Naturally I've got a few ideas of mine own.
I thought a definition of the term 'Fitness' would be a good starting point but surprisingly a clear definition, or at least one that doesn't include the word 'Fit' is difficult to nail down. This is typical........
Fitness - 'Good health or physical condition, especially as the result of exercise and proper nutrition'
My old fallback Wikipedia has a slightly fuller discussion including this telling phrase "This is often presented in textbooks as a triangle which represent physical, emotional, and mental fitness. Hence, one may be physically fit but may still suffer from a mental illness or have emotional problems. The "ideal triangle" is balanced in all areas"
Hmm - that's a lot more than the usual view that fitness relates to an ability to run a marathon or swim a couple of miles? Only one side of the triangle surely?
Out walking a good level of physical ability is relevant to the route, the geographical terrain and the duration of the exercise. Hence a recovering heart attack victim may find a short walk along a canal side national trail ideal, but not a steep haul to a peak straight up from the valley floor!
So how does that affect what we do?
I'd rate my own level of fitness as "good", but not great. That is I can walk several miles over farmland tracks without needing to stop for more than an occasional rest. More to break a trip up really. I don't pant when walking, and I can carry a reasonable weight as necessary.
I walk regularly throughout the winter months, but when it comes to my first backpacking trip to the hills each year I have one simple rule that I stick with - "Take it easy, and listen to the body"
Its not about how fast I move, or how much ground is covered. Its the fact that I can safely pass over the fellside, at an easy pace, without listening to blood pounding in my ears and with my heart feeling like its trying to come through my chest. If that's the case I'm going too fast or the terrain is not right for my level of physical activity (and that's not a situation I've yet to come across)
The first 1/2 hour or so climbing up the ascent is always a trial, no matter what time of year, and how used to it I am. And I expect to sweat. A lot. But a bit like a runner getting into their stride, once that is over and the body responding to the physical effort I tend to settle down. The first couple of days on a trip the aches and pains can make movement early in the day quite errr .....interesting, but its never so painful that it affects my ability to move and walk safely. And the body naturally detoxs itself over the first few days of concerted physical activity and plenty of food/water for refuelling along the way.
So in my case fitness is the ability of my body to safely perform the physical activity required of it.
As the summer continues my walking speed and my recovery ability picks up (I'm getting 'fitter'), my body naturally responding to the physical stimulation and building additional muscle and sinew to cope with the specific physical challenges I have set it. The key word here - naturally.
So how to get hill fit? Easy. Walk. Out on the hills if possible, or at least start using the stairs. You've got to start somewhere. And do it regularly. That's the key.
Cycling, swimming, running or even a gym all help with cardio vascular fitness but the essential method of getting fitter to walk, is ..... well just to walk. A lot.
I used to run regularly especially using a lot of hill work besides the local seafront, but perversely I found this created an over dependence on those muscles groups required for running. And though my CV was excellent I found increasing problems performing other exercise due to this over specialisation. More prone for instance to ankle and calf muscle injury. Often ending in physio treatment.
So to the other elements of fitness.
I've not seen much in the outdoor mags about this, but without will power, the intent to reach a selected point, that special sense of purpose, you probably won't even manage to get out of the car in the car park.
Many is the time I've felt that I needed to stop, only to look at the map and decide that the rest stop a few miles further on looked attractive, and within minutes of deciding to continue my fitness level and general spirits felt improved. The mind can be a dirty little trickster and it will naturally try for the easy option where possible. Again walking with or without a pack (but regularly) has taught me recognise when I really am finished for the day, or just letting my mind get one over on me (Remember the phrase 'Mind Over Matter'?)
But beware over overriding all the signals from the mind and body. The other side of the coin is knowing when enough is enough for the day.
And finally - enjoy the trip. If you're fretting about the weather, whether sun or rain. If its no longer fun, but a physical and mind numbing trial of stamina. Time to plan a finish.
The hill will always be there another day. It's mostly useful if you can say the same about yourself.
So next time some gym fit hero tells you about their 25 mile multi peak bagging day, that started and finished in the dark, and as they collapse into the chair before you, time to ask the killer question. And why did you enjoy it?
I reckon that's my triangle in place.
And if you want to think more about how to put that route plan together and make the best of your days out, Paul has some excellent observations over on Wilderness WalesLabels: Fitness, Mental Health, Trip Planning
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Or maybe you are one of those people who prefer to work on a less formal approach with some vague thoughts and ideas. They're rattling around your brain at present, waiting to settle into something more concrete.
There's a number of people at this time of year who are busily trying to stick to their new resolutions. In some cases they can seem so vague as to be prone to failure. "Walk 12,000 miles this year"? So how do you know/care about that target after 3 months. Is it 500 or 2,500 miles down then. And if so why stick it - there's always next year after all.
I tend more towards the informal approach personally, but with some lessons used regularly in my day-life (that so-called real existence - bah!) That would be Lessons That Work mind you.
To quote the source usually associated with this simple advice welcome to Rudyard Kipling (the old cake maker himself - not), whose words still stand the test of time and common sense:
"I keep six honest serving-men
(They taught me all I knew);
Their names are What and Why and When
And How and Where and Who"
I know RK is more than a little non PC these days due to the "empire/colonial Englishman abroad" approach to the world of his writings. And such gems as Soudan Expeditionary Force can be hard to fathom per se these days. A man of his times most definitely. However there is a school of thought that believes his work may be read as a deliberate satire warning of the dangers of colonialism and the oppression of native nations. And he was for a time the youngest receiver of the Nobel Prize for literature.
Back to the message anyhow. It's a tenet commonly to be found in the field of journalism, and a litmus test I apply when reading/listening to news reports these days when assessing their ability to report. That is to inform. Rather than, as is increasingly more the case, to 'entertain' with only a few parts of a factual story.
Lets break the advice down to see how it can be used to get help:
What
At present this could be very clear, possibly due to circumstance (complete the TGO Challenge following selection pre Xmas - oops sorry Bob/Andy, or finally get that LEJoG trip going) Or possibly quite nebulous "Get out more wildcamping in '08"
Whichever it is, perhaps its time to make a wish list. Now. And Keep it in your wallet/purse so you can add/change it over the coming weeks as ideas present themselves.
Why
Self evident really to most readers of this site. But it does sometime pay to consider what you actually want to get from it. And that doesn't always mean climbing the highest point, or walking for miles.
Simply being outdoors will suffice for some folk.
When
Easier stuff now. For most of us this will be the warmer months, despite the reports coming back on wildcamping trips over the Xmas period. But that season can be very short if the real planning doesn't get going until June, or waits until after that summer holiday.
How
Not usually a problem, and normally related to transport logistics. But for a change why not try a different way of getting there, and possibly freeing up your mind to other route making opportunities as a result?
Or how about just walking out of that front door and start the trip straight away?
Where
Well I know where I want to go. You've your own choices.
But I do try to include one new location - some form of change/new challenge. And then there's always at least one old favourite in there as well. A return to past pleasures.
Who
If you plan to have company now is the time, whilst spirits seem as low as January finances, to offer some hope to others by getting them on board with your plans. Or perhaps you can fit in with their ideas?
Just some thoughts to play with. Hopefully provocative enough to stir the creative juices.
As I said earlier I'm quite informal in these things. Mostly. But without the self delivered promise of, say, that June week wildcamping in the Lakes, these long dark nights can drag. And what better way to shorten them with some early planning.
But let's not forget the ad-hoc trips which spring from sudden opportunity, and despite fore planning can often turn out to be the most enjoyable of all.
Something to do with stolen fruit being the sweetest perhaps?
Whatever your ideas, best of luck with them. No scratch that last wish. The best of 'working out how to get out into the outdoors to do it for yourself'. Whatever that may be for you.
Labels: Fitness, Miscellaneous, walks
Sustrans National Lottery win - Pig in a Poke?
Lacking comment elsewhere within the UK outdoor blogging community (unless I've overlooked someone) here's my personal thoughts on the award last week of £50 million to Sustrans’ Connect2 project from the Big Lottery Fund to invest in walking and cycling UK-wide.
When the award was initially announced my reaction was - so what's that to me? I've been aware of Sustrans for some time now, but associated the group mostly with cycle routes. Not a huge interest of mine, but it sounded like a positive move - money to help with access to the great outdoors.
Now with anything related to the "National Lottery" my main reaction to that these days is by now pretty negative.
Why when I attempt to buy my Saturday paper/smokes do I somehow end up queueing behind a string of punters intent on buying multiple combinations of Lottery tickets and Lottery scratch cards - does anyone besides myself actually buy goods in a newsagents these days?
Furthermore I'm not against gambling per se. Indeed last week saw me spending sometime in the local casino during an evening's entertainment (And there's plenty I could write on the plain evidence of the dissociation of the ardent gambler from the surroundings and people around them. A very scary and extreme phenomena to observe for an occasional punter like myself)
But as for the national lottery being a "good" bet - hardly good odds to be honest, but back to the plot....
Sustrans successful bid was "to build a national network of cycle and walking routes". A laudable aim.
And then came news of certain alleged shenanigans with the voting. Oh right. What a surprise. Hasn't the recent rash of TV voting scams really already made the point on this. And frankly if I was involved with a charity seeking a donation of this magnitude I would make darned sure all my friends, relations, passers-by etc etc etc voted for my team using whatever means were provided by the donating organisation. But it seems that this has upset some folk as to the fairness of it all.
But despite the controversy let's stand back and look at all the candidates up for the cash - Eden Project: The Edge; Sherwood: The Living Legend; Black Country Urban Park; Sustrans: Connect2;
Three out of the four offering locally based projects.
And the winner - well that would be the only one with a nationally based project. Small wonder they received more votes really bearing in mind the increased number of people that their project could potentially influence.
So to the delivery plans of the winners to see just how this affects my outdoors access. After a little more digging into the detail behind Sustrans plans I must admit I'm still very unclear on quite what they intend to deliver. No great projects - just lots of joining up bits. And the more I look into the local initiatives, the more unsettling they become being aimed at semi-urban routes, possibly intending to influence some of the local population to walk/cycle to their destinations. But I'd guess more aimed at those lardy arses who think it fine in principle but won't bother to use the facilities anyway, save for an occasional trip with the kids at the height of summer.
I'm trying hard not to get too scathing here after looking at the local project nearest to me. For it proposes provision of a cycleway from a rural area with a very small population, but potentially many airport workers, into the built up areas of Bournemouth. But there's a few drawbacks here.
Firstly - the route already exists on the ground, mostly over existing country back roads, and a bridge across the River Stour. In fact I cycled the route over ten years ago. So its not about provision of anything new. Just upgraded somewhere I'd assume.
Secondly if the route is upgraded it has the potential to increased cycle traffic along paths currently trod mostly by the dog walking brigade, and at one pinch point a number of fishermen. No potential for an increase in conflicting usage here then - wandering dogs, men with expensive fishing gear lying the ground, and cyclists at an increased speed.
Thirdly, the main beneficiary should be the airport workers. But frankly I'd be surprised if many of those not already using the route would choose to do so after its been upgraded (whatever that entails)
And finally - this is not to cover the whole route indicated on the map - but just that piece marked in red i.e. the pinch point referred to earlier. I'd guess that means taking a sometimes narrow and muddy riverside walk, aka locally as a peaceful summertime stroll. And creating a cycle track instead. Great news.
I'd love to be more objective here. To base my view on fact and details. But the plans are really rather sketchy at best, and also carry a couple of interesting warnings as to "the far reaching nature of the scheme" and "not a promise where the route will go".
Huh? So what was the money budgeted for in the £50 million bid then?
In fairness I'll leave this for the present until more detail arises once this project starts on the ground.
But as a walker I fear perhaps the Sustrans bid doesn't really represent much of importance to me and may in fact deter me from using this particular area in the future.
More to come on this I'm sure. Labels: Fitness, Miscellaneous, walks
Sunday, October 28
TV: When Hell Freezes
No, not the title of the Eagles latest offering but another film/documentary from Channel 4 to be screened during prime time this coming Monday (21:00 - 22:35)
Following on after Joe Simpson's 'Beckoning Silence' last week tomorrow's programme relates Douglas Mawson's 1912 Antarctic expedition (or more relevantly the failure of it) that resulted in his 315-mile trek sans his original companions, and most of the food.
I can't presently find out if there's any more of these daring-do tales to come, but the subject matter so far is well chosen, and if Simpson's offering is anything to go by, well put together.
Aren't we outdoorsy folk being spoilt at presentLabels: Fitness, Miscellaneous
Tuesday, October 23
Joe Simpson on Surviving Till 40
No apologies for a follow up the JS piece to mention another of his on-line articles.
The git may be a year younger than me, but I'd bet I don't make nearly as many creaking noises as Mr S when I walk. And for me that is despite far too many years abusing motorcycles in some pretty foul weather/places.
That's mostly astride the bike concerned; Sometimes beneath it;
Ho hum. Never forget how to grow old. Rather disgracefully.Labels: books, Fitness, Miscellaneous
Monday, August 6
Me and my big mouth
Sod's Law will have its little joke, following my spirit rendition about Fitness a few days ago.
A niggling lower back pain has proved a stubborn little distraction over the past week, and finally decided to take up semi-permanent residency. And now I need to think about its presence there's a realisation that it has been twinging for two or maybe even three weeks.
Hhmmm - post Scotland? But like most of these slowly developing complaints (and believe me I complain about things like this!) I can't put my finger on any particular mishap or trigger.
So its off to the chiro once more, and highly likely I'm now a a no show at the upcoming UK Outdoors Bloggers Welsh Meet this weekend.
Curses.
And I recall that the oh so nice Alan Sloman was bringing me my weight in beer. I wonder if he recalls Davenports esteemed service? Now when did that slide quietly out of contemporary life?Labels: Fitness, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Wednesday, August 1
The Butcher's Dog or Fit For Nothing?
Over the last couple of months I've had an few thoughts bouncing around at the back of my brain concerning fitness and its relevance to hill walking and backpacking. There's a lot of tosh, especially in mens magazines, about the 'right' level of physical ability and how to achieve or improve the level each individual may require for their particular lifestyle.
So a timely programme from BBC Radio 4 "Am I Normal" on the very subject, available via the BBC Listen Again service. The second series is picking up from the first, giving a pragmatic view of many myths around medicine and human normality. And bursting a few preconceptions along the way
And hey - guess what? No-one can really agree how to easily measure an individual's fitness level (without a bank of gym/lab based tests) or indeed what exercise regime is necessary to help an individual become 'fit'.
Naturally I've got a few ideas of mine own.
I thought a definition of the term 'Fitness' would be a good starting point but surprisingly a clear definition, or at least one that doesn't include the word 'Fit' is difficult to nail down. This is typical........
Fitness - 'Good health or physical condition, especially as the result of exercise and proper nutrition'
My old fallback Wikipedia has a slightly fuller discussion including this telling phrase "This is often presented in textbooks as a triangle which represent physical, emotional, and mental fitness. Hence, one may be physically fit but may still suffer from a mental illness or have emotional problems. The "ideal triangle" is balanced in all areas"
Hmm - that's a lot more than the usual view that fitness relates to an ability to run a marathon or swim a couple of miles? Only one side of the triangle surely?
Out walking a good level of physical ability is relevant to the route, the geographical terrain and the duration of the exercise. Hence a recovering heart attack victim may find a short walk along a canal side national trail ideal, but not a steep haul to a peak straight up from the valley floor!
So how does that affect what we do?
I'd rate my own level of fitness as "good", but not great. That is I can walk several miles over farmland tracks without needing to stop for more than an occasional rest. More to break a trip up really. I don't pant when walking, and I can carry a reasonable weight as necessary.
I walk regularly throughout the winter months, but when it comes to my first backpacking trip to the hills each year I have one simple rule that I stick with - "Take it easy, and listen to the body"
Its not about how fast I move, or how much ground is covered. Its the fact that I can safely pass over the fellside, at an easy pace, without listening to blood pounding in my ears and with my heart feeling like its trying to come through my chest. If that's the case I'm going too fast or the terrain is not right for my level of physical activity (and that's not a situation I've yet to come across)
The first 1/2 hour or so climbing up the ascent is always a trial, no matter what time of year, and how used to it I am. And I expect to sweat. A lot. But a bit like a runner getting into their stride, once that is over and the body responding to the physical effort I tend to settle down. The first couple of days on a trip the aches and pains can make movement early in the day quite errr .....interesting, but its never so painful that it affects my ability to move and walk safely. And the body naturally detoxs itself over the first few days of concerted physical activity and plenty of food/water for refuelling along the way.
So in my case fitness is the ability of my body to safely perform the physical activity required of it.
As the summer continues my walking speed and my recovery ability picks up (I'm getting 'fitter'), my body naturally responding to the physical stimulation and building additional muscle and sinew to cope with the specific physical challenges I have set it. The key word here - naturally.
So how to get hill fit? Easy. Walk. Out on the hills if possible, or at least start using the stairs. You've got to start somewhere. And do it regularly. That's the key.
Cycling, swimming, running or even a gym all help with cardio vascular fitness but the essential method of getting fitter to walk, is ..... well just to walk. A lot.
I used to run regularly especially using a lot of hill work besides the local seafront, but perversely I found this created an over dependence on those muscles groups required for running. And though my CV was excellent I found increasing problems performing other exercise due to this over specialisation. More prone for instance to ankle and calf muscle injury. Often ending in physio treatment.
So to the other elements of fitness.
I've not seen much in the outdoor mags about this, but without will power, the intent to reach a selected point, that special sense of purpose, you probably won't even manage to get out of the car in the car park.
Many is the time I've felt that I needed to stop, only to look at the map and decide that the rest stop a few miles further on looked attractive, and within minutes of deciding to continue my fitness level and general spirits felt improved. The mind can be a dirty little trickster and it will naturally try for the easy option where possible. Again walking with or without a pack (but regularly) has taught me recognise when I really am finished for the day, or just letting my mind get one over on me (Remember the phrase 'Mind Over Matter'?)
But beware over overriding all the signals from the mind and body. The other side of the coin is knowing when enough is enough for the day.
And finally - enjoy the trip. If you're fretting about the weather, whether sun or rain. If its no longer fun, but a physical and mind numbing trial of stamina. Time to plan a finish.
The hill will always be there another day. It's mostly useful if you can say the same about yourself.
So next time some gym fit hero tells you about their 25 mile multi peak bagging day, that started and finished in the dark, and as they collapse into the chair before you, time to ask the killer question. And why did you enjoy it?
I reckon that's my triangle in place.
And if you want to think more about how to put that route plan together and make the best of your days out, Paul has some excellent observations over on Wilderness WalesLabels: Fitness, Mental Health, Trip Planning
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
When the award was initially announced my reaction was - so what's that to me? I've been aware of Sustrans for some time now, but associated the group mostly with cycle routes. Not a huge interest of mine, but it sounded like a positive move - money to help with access to the great outdoors.
Now with anything related to the "National Lottery" my main reaction to that these days is by now pretty negative.
Why when I attempt to buy my Saturday paper/smokes do I somehow end up queueing behind a string of punters intent on buying multiple combinations of Lottery tickets and Lottery scratch cards - does anyone besides myself actually buy goods in a newsagents these days?
Furthermore I'm not against gambling per se. Indeed last week saw me spending sometime in the local casino during an evening's entertainment (And there's plenty I could write on the plain evidence of the dissociation of the ardent gambler from the surroundings and people around them. A very scary and extreme phenomena to observe for an occasional punter like myself)
But as for the national lottery being a "good" bet - hardly good odds to be honest, but back to the plot....
Sustrans successful bid was "to build a national network of cycle and walking routes". A laudable aim.
And then came news of certain alleged shenanigans with the voting. Oh right. What a surprise. Hasn't the recent rash of TV voting scams really already made the point on this. And frankly if I was involved with a charity seeking a donation of this magnitude I would make darned sure all my friends, relations, passers-by etc etc etc voted for my team using whatever means were provided by the donating organisation. But it seems that this has upset some folk as to the fairness of it all.
But despite the controversy let's stand back and look at all the candidates up for the cash - Eden Project: The Edge; Sherwood: The Living Legend; Black Country Urban Park; Sustrans: Connect2;
Three out of the four offering locally based projects.
And the winner - well that would be the only one with a nationally based project. Small wonder they received more votes really bearing in mind the increased number of people that their project could potentially influence.
So to the delivery plans of the winners to see just how this affects my outdoors access. After a little more digging into the detail behind Sustrans plans I must admit I'm still very unclear on quite what they intend to deliver. No great projects - just lots of joining up bits. And the more I look into the local initiatives, the more unsettling they become being aimed at semi-urban routes, possibly intending to influence some of the local population to walk/cycle to their destinations. But I'd guess more aimed at those lardy arses who think it fine in principle but won't bother to use the facilities anyway, save for an occasional trip with the kids at the height of summer.
I'm trying hard not to get too scathing here after looking at the local project nearest to me. For it proposes provision of a cycleway from a rural area with a very small population, but potentially many airport workers, into the built up areas of Bournemouth. But there's a few drawbacks here.
Firstly - the route already exists on the ground, mostly over existing country back roads, and a bridge across the River Stour. In fact I cycled the route over ten years ago. So its not about provision of anything new. Just upgraded somewhere I'd assume.
Secondly if the route is upgraded it has the potential to increased cycle traffic along paths currently trod mostly by the dog walking brigade, and at one pinch point a number of fishermen. No potential for an increase in conflicting usage here then - wandering dogs, men with expensive fishing gear lying the ground, and cyclists at an increased speed.
Thirdly, the main beneficiary should be the airport workers. But frankly I'd be surprised if many of those not already using the route would choose to do so after its been upgraded (whatever that entails)
And finally - this is not to cover the whole route indicated on the map - but just that piece marked in red i.e. the pinch point referred to earlier. I'd guess that means taking a sometimes narrow and muddy riverside walk, aka locally as a peaceful summertime stroll. And creating a cycle track instead. Great news.
I'd love to be more objective here. To base my view on fact and details. But the plans are really rather sketchy at best, and also carry a couple of interesting warnings as to "the far reaching nature of the scheme" and "not a promise where the route will go".
Huh? So what was the money budgeted for in the £50 million bid then?
In fairness I'll leave this for the present until more detail arises once this project starts on the ground.
But as a walker I fear perhaps the Sustrans bid doesn't really represent much of importance to me and may in fact deter me from using this particular area in the future.
More to come on this I'm sure.
Labels: Fitness, Miscellaneous, walks
TV: When Hell Freezes
No, not the title of the Eagles latest offering but another film/documentary from Channel 4 to be screened during prime time this coming Monday (21:00 - 22:35)
Following on after Joe Simpson's 'Beckoning Silence' last week tomorrow's programme relates Douglas Mawson's 1912 Antarctic expedition (or more relevantly the failure of it) that resulted in his 315-mile trek sans his original companions, and most of the food.
I can't presently find out if there's any more of these daring-do tales to come, but the subject matter so far is well chosen, and if Simpson's offering is anything to go by, well put together.
Aren't we outdoorsy folk being spoilt at presentLabels: Fitness, Miscellaneous
Tuesday, October 23
Joe Simpson on Surviving Till 40
No apologies for a follow up the JS piece to mention another of his on-line articles.
The git may be a year younger than me, but I'd bet I don't make nearly as many creaking noises as Mr S when I walk. And for me that is despite far too many years abusing motorcycles in some pretty foul weather/places.
That's mostly astride the bike concerned; Sometimes beneath it;
Ho hum. Never forget how to grow old. Rather disgracefully.Labels: books, Fitness, Miscellaneous
Monday, August 6
Me and my big mouth
Sod's Law will have its little joke, following my spirit rendition about Fitness a few days ago.
A niggling lower back pain has proved a stubborn little distraction over the past week, and finally decided to take up semi-permanent residency. And now I need to think about its presence there's a realisation that it has been twinging for two or maybe even three weeks.
Hhmmm - post Scotland? But like most of these slowly developing complaints (and believe me I complain about things like this!) I can't put my finger on any particular mishap or trigger.
So its off to the chiro once more, and highly likely I'm now a a no show at the upcoming UK Outdoors Bloggers Welsh Meet this weekend.
Curses.
And I recall that the oh so nice Alan Sloman was bringing me my weight in beer. I wonder if he recalls Davenports esteemed service? Now when did that slide quietly out of contemporary life?Labels: Fitness, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Wednesday, August 1
The Butcher's Dog or Fit For Nothing?
Over the last couple of months I've had an few thoughts bouncing around at the back of my brain concerning fitness and its relevance to hill walking and backpacking. There's a lot of tosh, especially in mens magazines, about the 'right' level of physical ability and how to achieve or improve the level each individual may require for their particular lifestyle.
So a timely programme from BBC Radio 4 "Am I Normal" on the very subject, available via the BBC Listen Again service. The second series is picking up from the first, giving a pragmatic view of many myths around medicine and human normality. And bursting a few preconceptions along the way
And hey - guess what? No-one can really agree how to easily measure an individual's fitness level (without a bank of gym/lab based tests) or indeed what exercise regime is necessary to help an individual become 'fit'.
Naturally I've got a few ideas of mine own.
I thought a definition of the term 'Fitness' would be a good starting point but surprisingly a clear definition, or at least one that doesn't include the word 'Fit' is difficult to nail down. This is typical........
Fitness - 'Good health or physical condition, especially as the result of exercise and proper nutrition'
My old fallback Wikipedia has a slightly fuller discussion including this telling phrase "This is often presented in textbooks as a triangle which represent physical, emotional, and mental fitness. Hence, one may be physically fit but may still suffer from a mental illness or have emotional problems. The "ideal triangle" is balanced in all areas"
Hmm - that's a lot more than the usual view that fitness relates to an ability to run a marathon or swim a couple of miles? Only one side of the triangle surely?
Out walking a good level of physical ability is relevant to the route, the geographical terrain and the duration of the exercise. Hence a recovering heart attack victim may find a short walk along a canal side national trail ideal, but not a steep haul to a peak straight up from the valley floor!
So how does that affect what we do?
I'd rate my own level of fitness as "good", but not great. That is I can walk several miles over farmland tracks without needing to stop for more than an occasional rest. More to break a trip up really. I don't pant when walking, and I can carry a reasonable weight as necessary.
I walk regularly throughout the winter months, but when it comes to my first backpacking trip to the hills each year I have one simple rule that I stick with - "Take it easy, and listen to the body"
Its not about how fast I move, or how much ground is covered. Its the fact that I can safely pass over the fellside, at an easy pace, without listening to blood pounding in my ears and with my heart feeling like its trying to come through my chest. If that's the case I'm going too fast or the terrain is not right for my level of physical activity (and that's not a situation I've yet to come across)
The first 1/2 hour or so climbing up the ascent is always a trial, no matter what time of year, and how used to it I am. And I expect to sweat. A lot. But a bit like a runner getting into their stride, once that is over and the body responding to the physical effort I tend to settle down. The first couple of days on a trip the aches and pains can make movement early in the day quite errr .....interesting, but its never so painful that it affects my ability to move and walk safely. And the body naturally detoxs itself over the first few days of concerted physical activity and plenty of food/water for refuelling along the way.
So in my case fitness is the ability of my body to safely perform the physical activity required of it.
As the summer continues my walking speed and my recovery ability picks up (I'm getting 'fitter'), my body naturally responding to the physical stimulation and building additional muscle and sinew to cope with the specific physical challenges I have set it. The key word here - naturally.
So how to get hill fit? Easy. Walk. Out on the hills if possible, or at least start using the stairs. You've got to start somewhere. And do it regularly. That's the key.
Cycling, swimming, running or even a gym all help with cardio vascular fitness but the essential method of getting fitter to walk, is ..... well just to walk. A lot.
I used to run regularly especially using a lot of hill work besides the local seafront, but perversely I found this created an over dependence on those muscles groups required for running. And though my CV was excellent I found increasing problems performing other exercise due to this over specialisation. More prone for instance to ankle and calf muscle injury. Often ending in physio treatment.
So to the other elements of fitness.
I've not seen much in the outdoor mags about this, but without will power, the intent to reach a selected point, that special sense of purpose, you probably won't even manage to get out of the car in the car park.
Many is the time I've felt that I needed to stop, only to look at the map and decide that the rest stop a few miles further on looked attractive, and within minutes of deciding to continue my fitness level and general spirits felt improved. The mind can be a dirty little trickster and it will naturally try for the easy option where possible. Again walking with or without a pack (but regularly) has taught me recognise when I really am finished for the day, or just letting my mind get one over on me (Remember the phrase 'Mind Over Matter'?)
But beware over overriding all the signals from the mind and body. The other side of the coin is knowing when enough is enough for the day.
And finally - enjoy the trip. If you're fretting about the weather, whether sun or rain. If its no longer fun, but a physical and mind numbing trial of stamina. Time to plan a finish.
The hill will always be there another day. It's mostly useful if you can say the same about yourself.
So next time some gym fit hero tells you about their 25 mile multi peak bagging day, that started and finished in the dark, and as they collapse into the chair before you, time to ask the killer question. And why did you enjoy it?
I reckon that's my triangle in place.
And if you want to think more about how to put that route plan together and make the best of your days out, Paul has some excellent observations over on Wilderness WalesLabels: Fitness, Mental Health, Trip Planning
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Following on after Joe Simpson's 'Beckoning Silence' last week tomorrow's programme relates Douglas Mawson's 1912 Antarctic expedition (or more relevantly the failure of it) that resulted in his 315-mile trek sans his original companions, and most of the food.
I can't presently find out if there's any more of these daring-do tales to come, but the subject matter so far is well chosen, and if Simpson's offering is anything to go by, well put together.
Aren't we outdoorsy folk being spoilt at present
Labels: Fitness, Miscellaneous
Joe Simpson on Surviving Till 40
No apologies for a follow up the JS piece to mention another of his on-line articles.
The git may be a year younger than me, but I'd bet I don't make nearly as many creaking noises as Mr S when I walk. And for me that is despite far too many years abusing motorcycles in some pretty foul weather/places.
That's mostly astride the bike concerned; Sometimes beneath it;
Ho hum. Never forget how to grow old. Rather disgracefully.Labels: books, Fitness, Miscellaneous
Monday, August 6
Me and my big mouth
Sod's Law will have its little joke, following my spirit rendition about Fitness a few days ago.
A niggling lower back pain has proved a stubborn little distraction over the past week, and finally decided to take up semi-permanent residency. And now I need to think about its presence there's a realisation that it has been twinging for two or maybe even three weeks.
Hhmmm - post Scotland? But like most of these slowly developing complaints (and believe me I complain about things like this!) I can't put my finger on any particular mishap or trigger.
So its off to the chiro once more, and highly likely I'm now a a no show at the upcoming UK Outdoors Bloggers Welsh Meet this weekend.
Curses.
And I recall that the oh so nice Alan Sloman was bringing me my weight in beer. I wonder if he recalls Davenports esteemed service? Now when did that slide quietly out of contemporary life?Labels: Fitness, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Wednesday, August 1
The Butcher's Dog or Fit For Nothing?
Over the last couple of months I've had an few thoughts bouncing around at the back of my brain concerning fitness and its relevance to hill walking and backpacking. There's a lot of tosh, especially in mens magazines, about the 'right' level of physical ability and how to achieve or improve the level each individual may require for their particular lifestyle.
So a timely programme from BBC Radio 4 "Am I Normal" on the very subject, available via the BBC Listen Again service. The second series is picking up from the first, giving a pragmatic view of many myths around medicine and human normality. And bursting a few preconceptions along the way
And hey - guess what? No-one can really agree how to easily measure an individual's fitness level (without a bank of gym/lab based tests) or indeed what exercise regime is necessary to help an individual become 'fit'.
Naturally I've got a few ideas of mine own.
I thought a definition of the term 'Fitness' would be a good starting point but surprisingly a clear definition, or at least one that doesn't include the word 'Fit' is difficult to nail down. This is typical........
Fitness - 'Good health or physical condition, especially as the result of exercise and proper nutrition'
My old fallback Wikipedia has a slightly fuller discussion including this telling phrase "This is often presented in textbooks as a triangle which represent physical, emotional, and mental fitness. Hence, one may be physically fit but may still suffer from a mental illness or have emotional problems. The "ideal triangle" is balanced in all areas"
Hmm - that's a lot more than the usual view that fitness relates to an ability to run a marathon or swim a couple of miles? Only one side of the triangle surely?
Out walking a good level of physical ability is relevant to the route, the geographical terrain and the duration of the exercise. Hence a recovering heart attack victim may find a short walk along a canal side national trail ideal, but not a steep haul to a peak straight up from the valley floor!
So how does that affect what we do?
I'd rate my own level of fitness as "good", but not great. That is I can walk several miles over farmland tracks without needing to stop for more than an occasional rest. More to break a trip up really. I don't pant when walking, and I can carry a reasonable weight as necessary.
I walk regularly throughout the winter months, but when it comes to my first backpacking trip to the hills each year I have one simple rule that I stick with - "Take it easy, and listen to the body"
Its not about how fast I move, or how much ground is covered. Its the fact that I can safely pass over the fellside, at an easy pace, without listening to blood pounding in my ears and with my heart feeling like its trying to come through my chest. If that's the case I'm going too fast or the terrain is not right for my level of physical activity (and that's not a situation I've yet to come across)
The first 1/2 hour or so climbing up the ascent is always a trial, no matter what time of year, and how used to it I am. And I expect to sweat. A lot. But a bit like a runner getting into their stride, once that is over and the body responding to the physical effort I tend to settle down. The first couple of days on a trip the aches and pains can make movement early in the day quite errr .....interesting, but its never so painful that it affects my ability to move and walk safely. And the body naturally detoxs itself over the first few days of concerted physical activity and plenty of food/water for refuelling along the way.
So in my case fitness is the ability of my body to safely perform the physical activity required of it.
As the summer continues my walking speed and my recovery ability picks up (I'm getting 'fitter'), my body naturally responding to the physical stimulation and building additional muscle and sinew to cope with the specific physical challenges I have set it. The key word here - naturally.
So how to get hill fit? Easy. Walk. Out on the hills if possible, or at least start using the stairs. You've got to start somewhere. And do it regularly. That's the key.
Cycling, swimming, running or even a gym all help with cardio vascular fitness but the essential method of getting fitter to walk, is ..... well just to walk. A lot.
I used to run regularly especially using a lot of hill work besides the local seafront, but perversely I found this created an over dependence on those muscles groups required for running. And though my CV was excellent I found increasing problems performing other exercise due to this over specialisation. More prone for instance to ankle and calf muscle injury. Often ending in physio treatment.
So to the other elements of fitness.
I've not seen much in the outdoor mags about this, but without will power, the intent to reach a selected point, that special sense of purpose, you probably won't even manage to get out of the car in the car park.
Many is the time I've felt that I needed to stop, only to look at the map and decide that the rest stop a few miles further on looked attractive, and within minutes of deciding to continue my fitness level and general spirits felt improved. The mind can be a dirty little trickster and it will naturally try for the easy option where possible. Again walking with or without a pack (but regularly) has taught me recognise when I really am finished for the day, or just letting my mind get one over on me (Remember the phrase 'Mind Over Matter'?)
But beware over overriding all the signals from the mind and body. The other side of the coin is knowing when enough is enough for the day.
And finally - enjoy the trip. If you're fretting about the weather, whether sun or rain. If its no longer fun, but a physical and mind numbing trial of stamina. Time to plan a finish.
The hill will always be there another day. It's mostly useful if you can say the same about yourself.
So next time some gym fit hero tells you about their 25 mile multi peak bagging day, that started and finished in the dark, and as they collapse into the chair before you, time to ask the killer question. And why did you enjoy it?
I reckon that's my triangle in place.
And if you want to think more about how to put that route plan together and make the best of your days out, Paul has some excellent observations over on Wilderness WalesLabels: Fitness, Mental Health, Trip Planning
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
The git may be a year younger than me, but I'd bet I don't make nearly as many creaking noises as Mr S when I walk. And for me that is despite far too many years abusing motorcycles in some pretty foul weather/places.
That's mostly astride the bike concerned; Sometimes beneath it;
Ho hum. Never forget how to grow old. Rather disgracefully.
Labels: books, Fitness, Miscellaneous
Me and my big mouth
Sod's Law will have its little joke, following my spirit rendition about Fitness a few days ago.
A niggling lower back pain has proved a stubborn little distraction over the past week, and finally decided to take up semi-permanent residency. And now I need to think about its presence there's a realisation that it has been twinging for two or maybe even three weeks.
Hhmmm - post Scotland? But like most of these slowly developing complaints (and believe me I complain about things like this!) I can't put my finger on any particular mishap or trigger.
So its off to the chiro once more, and highly likely I'm now a a no show at the upcoming UK Outdoors Bloggers Welsh Meet this weekend.
Curses.
And I recall that the oh so nice Alan Sloman was bringing me my weight in beer. I wonder if he recalls Davenports esteemed service? Now when did that slide quietly out of contemporary life?Labels: Fitness, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Wednesday, August 1
The Butcher's Dog or Fit For Nothing?
Over the last couple of months I've had an few thoughts bouncing around at the back of my brain concerning fitness and its relevance to hill walking and backpacking. There's a lot of tosh, especially in mens magazines, about the 'right' level of physical ability and how to achieve or improve the level each individual may require for their particular lifestyle.
So a timely programme from BBC Radio 4 "Am I Normal" on the very subject, available via the BBC Listen Again service. The second series is picking up from the first, giving a pragmatic view of many myths around medicine and human normality. And bursting a few preconceptions along the way
And hey - guess what? No-one can really agree how to easily measure an individual's fitness level (without a bank of gym/lab based tests) or indeed what exercise regime is necessary to help an individual become 'fit'.
Naturally I've got a few ideas of mine own.
I thought a definition of the term 'Fitness' would be a good starting point but surprisingly a clear definition, or at least one that doesn't include the word 'Fit' is difficult to nail down. This is typical........
Fitness - 'Good health or physical condition, especially as the result of exercise and proper nutrition'
My old fallback Wikipedia has a slightly fuller discussion including this telling phrase "This is often presented in textbooks as a triangle which represent physical, emotional, and mental fitness. Hence, one may be physically fit but may still suffer from a mental illness or have emotional problems. The "ideal triangle" is balanced in all areas"
Hmm - that's a lot more than the usual view that fitness relates to an ability to run a marathon or swim a couple of miles? Only one side of the triangle surely?
Out walking a good level of physical ability is relevant to the route, the geographical terrain and the duration of the exercise. Hence a recovering heart attack victim may find a short walk along a canal side national trail ideal, but not a steep haul to a peak straight up from the valley floor!
So how does that affect what we do?
I'd rate my own level of fitness as "good", but not great. That is I can walk several miles over farmland tracks without needing to stop for more than an occasional rest. More to break a trip up really. I don't pant when walking, and I can carry a reasonable weight as necessary.
I walk regularly throughout the winter months, but when it comes to my first backpacking trip to the hills each year I have one simple rule that I stick with - "Take it easy, and listen to the body"
Its not about how fast I move, or how much ground is covered. Its the fact that I can safely pass over the fellside, at an easy pace, without listening to blood pounding in my ears and with my heart feeling like its trying to come through my chest. If that's the case I'm going too fast or the terrain is not right for my level of physical activity (and that's not a situation I've yet to come across)
The first 1/2 hour or so climbing up the ascent is always a trial, no matter what time of year, and how used to it I am. And I expect to sweat. A lot. But a bit like a runner getting into their stride, once that is over and the body responding to the physical effort I tend to settle down. The first couple of days on a trip the aches and pains can make movement early in the day quite errr .....interesting, but its never so painful that it affects my ability to move and walk safely. And the body naturally detoxs itself over the first few days of concerted physical activity and plenty of food/water for refuelling along the way.
So in my case fitness is the ability of my body to safely perform the physical activity required of it.
As the summer continues my walking speed and my recovery ability picks up (I'm getting 'fitter'), my body naturally responding to the physical stimulation and building additional muscle and sinew to cope with the specific physical challenges I have set it. The key word here - naturally.
So how to get hill fit? Easy. Walk. Out on the hills if possible, or at least start using the stairs. You've got to start somewhere. And do it regularly. That's the key.
Cycling, swimming, running or even a gym all help with cardio vascular fitness but the essential method of getting fitter to walk, is ..... well just to walk. A lot.
I used to run regularly especially using a lot of hill work besides the local seafront, but perversely I found this created an over dependence on those muscles groups required for running. And though my CV was excellent I found increasing problems performing other exercise due to this over specialisation. More prone for instance to ankle and calf muscle injury. Often ending in physio treatment.
So to the other elements of fitness.
I've not seen much in the outdoor mags about this, but without will power, the intent to reach a selected point, that special sense of purpose, you probably won't even manage to get out of the car in the car park.
Many is the time I've felt that I needed to stop, only to look at the map and decide that the rest stop a few miles further on looked attractive, and within minutes of deciding to continue my fitness level and general spirits felt improved. The mind can be a dirty little trickster and it will naturally try for the easy option where possible. Again walking with or without a pack (but regularly) has taught me recognise when I really am finished for the day, or just letting my mind get one over on me (Remember the phrase 'Mind Over Matter'?)
But beware over overriding all the signals from the mind and body. The other side of the coin is knowing when enough is enough for the day.
And finally - enjoy the trip. If you're fretting about the weather, whether sun or rain. If its no longer fun, but a physical and mind numbing trial of stamina. Time to plan a finish.
The hill will always be there another day. It's mostly useful if you can say the same about yourself.
So next time some gym fit hero tells you about their 25 mile multi peak bagging day, that started and finished in the dark, and as they collapse into the chair before you, time to ask the killer question. And why did you enjoy it?
I reckon that's my triangle in place.
And if you want to think more about how to put that route plan together and make the best of your days out, Paul has some excellent observations over on Wilderness WalesLabels: Fitness, Mental Health, Trip Planning
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
A niggling lower back pain has proved a stubborn little distraction over the past week, and finally decided to take up semi-permanent residency. And now I need to think about its presence there's a realisation that it has been twinging for two or maybe even three weeks.
Hhmmm - post Scotland? But like most of these slowly developing complaints (and believe me I complain about things like this!) I can't put my finger on any particular mishap or trigger.
So its off to the chiro once more, and highly likely I'm now a a no show at the upcoming UK Outdoors Bloggers Welsh Meet this weekend.
Curses.
And I recall that the oh so nice Alan Sloman was bringing me my weight in beer. I wonder if he recalls Davenports esteemed service? Now when did that slide quietly out of contemporary life?
Labels: Fitness, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
The Butcher's Dog or Fit For Nothing?
Over the last couple of months I've had an few thoughts bouncing around at the back of my brain concerning fitness and its relevance to hill walking and backpacking. There's a lot of tosh, especially in mens magazines, about the 'right' level of physical ability and how to achieve or improve the level each individual may require for their particular lifestyle.
So a timely programme from BBC Radio 4 "Am I Normal" on the very subject, available via the BBC Listen Again service. The second series is picking up from the first, giving a pragmatic view of many myths around medicine and human normality. And bursting a few preconceptions along the way
And hey - guess what? No-one can really agree how to easily measure an individual's fitness level (without a bank of gym/lab based tests) or indeed what exercise regime is necessary to help an individual become 'fit'.
Naturally I've got a few ideas of mine own.
I thought a definition of the term 'Fitness' would be a good starting point but surprisingly a clear definition, or at least one that doesn't include the word 'Fit' is difficult to nail down. This is typical........
Fitness - 'Good health or physical condition, especially as the result of exercise and proper nutrition'
My old fallback Wikipedia has a slightly fuller discussion including this telling phrase "This is often presented in textbooks as a triangle which represent physical, emotional, and mental fitness. Hence, one may be physically fit but may still suffer from a mental illness or have emotional problems. The "ideal triangle" is balanced in all areas"
Hmm - that's a lot more than the usual view that fitness relates to an ability to run a marathon or swim a couple of miles? Only one side of the triangle surely?
Out walking a good level of physical ability is relevant to the route, the geographical terrain and the duration of the exercise. Hence a recovering heart attack victim may find a short walk along a canal side national trail ideal, but not a steep haul to a peak straight up from the valley floor!
So how does that affect what we do?
I'd rate my own level of fitness as "good", but not great. That is I can walk several miles over farmland tracks without needing to stop for more than an occasional rest. More to break a trip up really. I don't pant when walking, and I can carry a reasonable weight as necessary.
I walk regularly throughout the winter months, but when it comes to my first backpacking trip to the hills each year I have one simple rule that I stick with - "Take it easy, and listen to the body"
Its not about how fast I move, or how much ground is covered. Its the fact that I can safely pass over the fellside, at an easy pace, without listening to blood pounding in my ears and with my heart feeling like its trying to come through my chest. If that's the case I'm going too fast or the terrain is not right for my level of physical activity (and that's not a situation I've yet to come across)
The first 1/2 hour or so climbing up the ascent is always a trial, no matter what time of year, and how used to it I am. And I expect to sweat. A lot. But a bit like a runner getting into their stride, once that is over and the body responding to the physical effort I tend to settle down. The first couple of days on a trip the aches and pains can make movement early in the day quite errr .....interesting, but its never so painful that it affects my ability to move and walk safely. And the body naturally detoxs itself over the first few days of concerted physical activity and plenty of food/water for refuelling along the way.
So in my case fitness is the ability of my body to safely perform the physical activity required of it.
As the summer continues my walking speed and my recovery ability picks up (I'm getting 'fitter'), my body naturally responding to the physical stimulation and building additional muscle and sinew to cope with the specific physical challenges I have set it. The key word here - naturally.
So how to get hill fit? Easy. Walk. Out on the hills if possible, or at least start using the stairs. You've got to start somewhere. And do it regularly. That's the key.
Cycling, swimming, running or even a gym all help with cardio vascular fitness but the essential method of getting fitter to walk, is ..... well just to walk. A lot.
I used to run regularly especially using a lot of hill work besides the local seafront, but perversely I found this created an over dependence on those muscles groups required for running. And though my CV was excellent I found increasing problems performing other exercise due to this over specialisation. More prone for instance to ankle and calf muscle injury. Often ending in physio treatment.
So to the other elements of fitness.
I've not seen much in the outdoor mags about this, but without will power, the intent to reach a selected point, that special sense of purpose, you probably won't even manage to get out of the car in the car park.
Many is the time I've felt that I needed to stop, only to look at the map and decide that the rest stop a few miles further on looked attractive, and within minutes of deciding to continue my fitness level and general spirits felt improved. The mind can be a dirty little trickster and it will naturally try for the easy option where possible. Again walking with or without a pack (but regularly) has taught me recognise when I really am finished for the day, or just letting my mind get one over on me (Remember the phrase 'Mind Over Matter'?)
But beware over overriding all the signals from the mind and body. The other side of the coin is knowing when enough is enough for the day.
And finally - enjoy the trip. If you're fretting about the weather, whether sun or rain. If its no longer fun, but a physical and mind numbing trial of stamina. Time to plan a finish.
The hill will always be there another day. It's mostly useful if you can say the same about yourself.
So next time some gym fit hero tells you about their 25 mile multi peak bagging day, that started and finished in the dark, and as they collapse into the chair before you, time to ask the killer question. And why did you enjoy it?
I reckon that's my triangle in place.
And if you want to think more about how to put that route plan together and make the best of your days out, Paul has some excellent observations over on Wilderness WalesLabels: Fitness, Mental Health, Trip Planning
So a timely programme from BBC Radio 4 "Am I Normal" on the very subject, available via the BBC Listen Again service. The second series is picking up from the first, giving a pragmatic view of many myths around medicine and human normality. And bursting a few preconceptions along the way
And hey - guess what? No-one can really agree how to easily measure an individual's fitness level (without a bank of gym/lab based tests) or indeed what exercise regime is necessary to help an individual become 'fit'.
Naturally I've got a few ideas of mine own.
I thought a definition of the term 'Fitness' would be a good starting point but surprisingly a clear definition, or at least one that doesn't include the word 'Fit' is difficult to nail down. This is typical........
Fitness - 'Good health or physical condition, especially as the result of exercise and proper nutrition'
My old fallback Wikipedia has a slightly fuller discussion including this telling phrase "This is often presented in textbooks as a triangle which represent physical, emotional, and mental fitness. Hence, one may be physically fit but may still suffer from a mental illness or have emotional problems. The "ideal triangle" is balanced in all areas"
Hmm - that's a lot more than the usual view that fitness relates to an ability to run a marathon or swim a couple of miles? Only one side of the triangle surely?
Out walking a good level of physical ability is relevant to the route, the geographical terrain and the duration of the exercise. Hence a recovering heart attack victim may find a short walk along a canal side national trail ideal, but not a steep haul to a peak straight up from the valley floor!
So how does that affect what we do?
I'd rate my own level of fitness as "good", but not great. That is I can walk several miles over farmland tracks without needing to stop for more than an occasional rest. More to break a trip up really. I don't pant when walking, and I can carry a reasonable weight as necessary.
I walk regularly throughout the winter months, but when it comes to my first backpacking trip to the hills each year I have one simple rule that I stick with - "Take it easy, and listen to the body"
Its not about how fast I move, or how much ground is covered. Its the fact that I can safely pass over the fellside, at an easy pace, without listening to blood pounding in my ears and with my heart feeling like its trying to come through my chest. If that's the case I'm going too fast or the terrain is not right for my level of physical activity (and that's not a situation I've yet to come across)
The first 1/2 hour or so climbing up the ascent is always a trial, no matter what time of year, and how used to it I am. And I expect to sweat. A lot. But a bit like a runner getting into their stride, once that is over and the body responding to the physical effort I tend to settle down. The first couple of days on a trip the aches and pains can make movement early in the day quite errr .....interesting, but its never so painful that it affects my ability to move and walk safely. And the body naturally detoxs itself over the first few days of concerted physical activity and plenty of food/water for refuelling along the way.
So in my case fitness is the ability of my body to safely perform the physical activity required of it.
As the summer continues my walking speed and my recovery ability picks up (I'm getting 'fitter'), my body naturally responding to the physical stimulation and building additional muscle and sinew to cope with the specific physical challenges I have set it. The key word here - naturally.
So how to get hill fit? Easy. Walk. Out on the hills if possible, or at least start using the stairs. You've got to start somewhere. And do it regularly. That's the key.
Cycling, swimming, running or even a gym all help with cardio vascular fitness but the essential method of getting fitter to walk, is ..... well just to walk. A lot.
I used to run regularly especially using a lot of hill work besides the local seafront, but perversely I found this created an over dependence on those muscles groups required for running. And though my CV was excellent I found increasing problems performing other exercise due to this over specialisation. More prone for instance to ankle and calf muscle injury. Often ending in physio treatment.
So to the other elements of fitness.
I've not seen much in the outdoor mags about this, but without will power, the intent to reach a selected point, that special sense of purpose, you probably won't even manage to get out of the car in the car park.
Many is the time I've felt that I needed to stop, only to look at the map and decide that the rest stop a few miles further on looked attractive, and within minutes of deciding to continue my fitness level and general spirits felt improved. The mind can be a dirty little trickster and it will naturally try for the easy option where possible. Again walking with or without a pack (but regularly) has taught me recognise when I really am finished for the day, or just letting my mind get one over on me (Remember the phrase 'Mind Over Matter'?)
But beware over overriding all the signals from the mind and body. The other side of the coin is knowing when enough is enough for the day.
And finally - enjoy the trip. If you're fretting about the weather, whether sun or rain. If its no longer fun, but a physical and mind numbing trial of stamina. Time to plan a finish.
The hill will always be there another day. It's mostly useful if you can say the same about yourself.
So next time some gym fit hero tells you about their 25 mile multi peak bagging day, that started and finished in the dark, and as they collapse into the chair before you, time to ask the killer question. And why did you enjoy it?
I reckon that's my triangle in place.
And if you want to think more about how to put that route plan together and make the best of your days out, Paul has some excellent observations over on Wilderness Wales
Labels: Fitness, Mental Health, Trip Planning
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
