20.Jan.2012 Six weeks to go! Time to start training

There are only six weeks until this year’s event which means only one thing – time to start training.

Bogle is an endurance event and it requires a combination of physical strength and determination to be successful. We recommend that you buy a good pair of trainers and wear them as much as possible prior to the event to reduce the chances of blisters. The Sweat Shop in the Arndale Centre will be able to give you advice as to what shoes are most appropriate. The entire route is along paved roads, trainers are designed to absorb the shock of a heel hitting a hard surface.

You will also want several good pairs of socks, outdoor shops such as Millets or Cotswolds sell blister socks. The basic principle is that there are two layers of cloth between the shoe and your foot, so these rub together instead of your skin. If you don’t want to splash out on specialist socks, just wear 2 pairs at once.

Once you are armed with the perfect footwear it’s time to get serious about putting in the miles. Think about how far you live from University or Work, if its a couple of miles that’s a great start, if it’s a lot longer why not get off the bus a few stops early and walk the rest of the way. Once you are comfortable with the walk to work start taking a detour and doubling your distance and then try tripling it. Yes it’s January and the weather is horrible, so be sensible; if it’s pouring with rain don’t give yourself a cold.

We live not very far from one of the most beautiful parts of the country – The Peak District. Why not hop on a bus one weekend and head out into the hills so you can get some real miles done. We recommend that you attempt at least one 20 mile walk in the weeks prior to the Stroll to get your body used to the continual impact and motion of the walking.

Walking is a great way to relax and is an opportunity reflect on what life throws at us. So who knows, you might start to enjoy your “training” and make it a habit for life.