How to train for a long distance walk

Long distance walks are often planned by charities or organizations as a way to raise money. People who participate in them are not there to win. In fact, many long-distance walks don’t offer prizes at all, and instead focus on the achievement of completing the walk, not matter the time invested or the position in which you cross the final line.

Instructions

    • 1

      Build up endurance. Even if you plan on eventually joining a long-distance walk, you need to work on increasing the distance covered slowly. Start by walking a moderate distance. Make it challenging but don’t attempt to do more than you are capable of. Add a few blocks every 4 to 5 days and try to never step back once you increase the distance.

    • 2

      Go hiking. Long distance walks are usually on flat terrain, but still require a lot of energy because of the distance covered. Hiking is one of the hardest ways of walking, since it involves uneven terrain, ups and downs, and unexpected twists. Because of this, it can help you build endurance and make a flat-terrain walk feel easy.

    • 3

      Walk uphill. If you are training for a long-distance walk during winter, indoors, you can try using a treadmill with an incline of four or more. This will increase your endurance for flat terrain walks and make it easier to cover long distances once you are able to step outside again.

    • 4

      Invest in a good pair of walking shoes. You won’t be doing much walking if you end up with blisters, painful heels or sore legs. Make sure the shoes fit well and offer good support for both your arches and your ankles.

    • 5

      Find ways to motivate yourself. Walking long distances can get boring. Rather than just going in circles, set out to reach a specific destination: a shop, a park or a friend’s house. Using an iPod or MP3 to get you through is also a good idea, but remember to keep the volume low so you can still hear the coming traffic. Finally, you can try changing your route a few times a week so you have a chance to explore new sights.