The plans to go to Scotland and hike the Cape Wrath are going in full speed: time off was booked, gear adjustments are happening slowly (slower than I hoped) and training is ongoing. The big problem is the clash between my training program and the reality I need to deal with: I’m a father to a 1 year old, I’m a husband, I work full time, write here, make beer and have a resemblance of a social life – time is a squeeze.
Another issue I’ve been facing is the limited options in the UK – getting to less organized trails requires long journeys which are a problem in terms of time and they tend to cost a small fortune every time (I use the train system).
Between my time (and interest) constraints and the funding of endless train rides I re-adjusted my program:
- A long distance day hike once a month (like what I did on the South Downs Way). I will aim to use the proximity and convenience of the London Loop.
- A 2 night/2 day hike somewhere more remote using evening trains and improvised camping arrangements. This way I can get 2 full days of walking by leaving straight from work on Friday night.
- Continue my runs (I run 2-3 times a week) and increase the distance. This is mainly to teach my body to recover quickly.
- Continue strength training. It is really important for any active person to be able to use the upper body and core to help while running/walking/climbing/skiing/cycling and not just the legs.
- When possible, take Mika and our daughter on day hikes. It is great “carrying” training using the Kid Comfort and a way to mix in some family time along the way.
I hope the adjustment is enough and more realistic to keep me going. Do you have any experience with something like this and have a different opinion on what I should do?