so lets get training...

Being of average fitness and us both existing in sedentary jobs we were grateful that we had a couple of years to EASE into this walking gig....but we had to start somewhere and so on a raining long weekend the wife dragged me out for easy start on local streets and bush roads for about 7km.

We then looked wider afield an came across a good 8 km track in the local "Venman" national park, it had creek crossing and some reasonable hills in a lovely bush setting. So on a dry Saturday morning we kitted up and headed off, me with my walking poles (which was great for the creek crossings, hill climbs and particularly for the descents...take pressure off the knees)...subsequently convinced the wife that they were really worth the investment. the carbon fibre Komerdells were really light and gave so much stability on uneven ground.

taking a rest having just climbed a big hill...Pyrenees will be more difficult!

Anita, with a smile loving the outdoors

Paul playing with his GPS tracker...do we really need it on the Camino

So we made it back...thoroughly enjoyed the walk in nature..it was perfect walking condition...not quite the meseta in 40degC weather. Even with a camel pack on you realise how much useless stuff you carry, so we are going to take our real pack from now on just to get used to them.  We have plotted our next walk already, about 15km up and down hills.....the adventure continues.

A Camino shopping frenzy

You might think that purchasing kit for the Camino some two years out is a little over the top...but when you are walking novices,captured by a dream...well there is no stopping. 
The first and most critical piece of equipment are of course your boots and after much research I chose the Merrell Men's Moab Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot lightweight, breathable, great tread and ankle support. 

Merrell Moab Mids....so far so comfortable

Having research what I though were the best shoes I took my wife to the local outdoor company only to see her make an independent decision and purchase a set of Keen's, more comfortable and fit than the Merrell's she tried..... as they say .."Happy Wife.. Happy Life" so Keen's it was!

 

 

 

Completing our footwear package was a pair of Keen's sandals, durable enough with toe protection to ware on those hot Camino day's or for our downtime.

 

 

  The remainder of equipment was made up of an Osprey Tallon 44 backpack( capacity for 10-15kg),a rain cover, airporter carry bag to protect pack when shipped, 1000 mile socks (double layer) .....and Komperdell Carbon C3 Airshock Trekking Poles which we have grown to love , light & strong and a great feel in the hand. The stability provided in difficult terrain and power for walking was a surprise....but particularly helpful for my now 12 month old artificial hips!

 

We are now on the lookout for walking gear, shorts, fleeces and good lightweight waterproof shell....ah what fun ,all this research and shopping frenzy but oh the bank balance can take a hit.. but its a dream isn't it.