Its Going to be a Tough Trek

Updates from the Oxfam Global Challenge Team arrived by post today to remind us all that the trek will be challenging and that training is essential. The 'Training Tips' really 'hit home' - it's not going to be easy trekking the Inca Trail.

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Excerpts from Oxfam's Training Tips: 'The trekking is tough and training is imperative. This is a trek at high altitude, which is physically challenging and it is vital that you have trained. Training well will mean that you can be confident and relaxed during what will be a real test of your endurance. '

'Start by walking two to three times a week for at least one hour each time (already doing this -so far so good) It is advisable to train carrying a rucksack weighing approc 5kg (havent done this yet)

'At weekends, start with 3 hour walks on hilly terrain where possible' (already doing this - but maybe the routes are not hilly enough)

'Increase gradually to walking 3 to 4 evenings a week (1-2 hours each time) At weekends increase walk to 5 hours over as rough a terrain as possible. It is advisable also to hike on 2 consecutive days for up to 10 hrs (our maximum trekking day) (this is yet to come in my training) If possible train at altitude. Be aware that the trek involves some very early rises. Wake up call is usually 05.30 and on day 4 and 7 it will be at 04.00. There will be significant fluctuations in temperature. In early June, sunrise is at 06.00 and sunset at just before 17.30'

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June doesn't seem very far away now (its not!) and I am definitely not fit enough. I think I my training plan needs a total rethink!!