A lot!
This hasn't been just about training for a walk. For me, this has been almost a journey of self discovery - sorry for the cliche!
I've learnt things about myself that I never knew before. Spending hours out walking on your own, no computers, no phones etc, gives you time to think. And to reassess your life and what direction you're heading.
I've got fitter and healthier, and have developed a love for the outdoors. Something I've never really had before.
I've achieved something that even that day, I didn't think I would achieve. Proved to myself that I could do it - and to everyone else who doubted me.
I've seen parts of Jersey (and now Guernsey) that I've never seen before. Spoken to people I would never have met.
Photos from my journey can be found here
If you've been reading this, then thank you. And I hope you've enjoyed it. It was initially meant more as a diary, so that I could look back and remember the journey I have taken to get here.
Monday, 6 June 2011
The Aftermath
Walk completed.
Now what?
Beer! Straight into the pub for a very cold pear cider. I really really wanted it. But I was too exhausted so it didn't go down as well as I had hoped it would.
Then home for a long soak in the bath. Once I could lift my legs high enough to get into the damn thing! This was when I realised how much I was aching, and just how tired I was.
But bath, takeaway and a few glasses of wine later, I felt more relaxed and more human. Time for bed. I would sleep well.
Woke up early Sunday - every time I rolled over in bed I hurt. Not agonisingly, but I was aching. A lot. I found a couple of blisters on my feet, but nothing horrendous. Also found some comedy tan lines on my legs - the ones that never ever go brown <sigh> So Sunday was definitely a day of rest, taking it easy - and sleeping all afternoon as I was so exhausted!
On to Monday - the day that I was told I would feel worst. Only I woke up and felt fine. Still aching a little. but did the school run (walk) in normal time, and back again. Went for a few hours at a spa as a treat, very relaxing sauna, jacuzzi and massage. Had a little retail therapy in the afternoon - well I did deserve it. I had walked round an island after all!
And what now? Now I keep being asked when I'm doing the Jersey one (which is in two weeks). All from people who have never walked either. Apparently it's not enough that I've walked one. Most frustrating.......
It's like childbirth though - straight after you're adamant never again. Only you do. I am secretly contemplating the Jersey one in two weeks time. But if I do attempt it, I won't be telling anyone.
Now what?
Beer! Straight into the pub for a very cold pear cider. I really really wanted it. But I was too exhausted so it didn't go down as well as I had hoped it would.
Then home for a long soak in the bath. Once I could lift my legs high enough to get into the damn thing! This was when I realised how much I was aching, and just how tired I was.
But bath, takeaway and a few glasses of wine later, I felt more relaxed and more human. Time for bed. I would sleep well.
Woke up early Sunday - every time I rolled over in bed I hurt. Not agonisingly, but I was aching. A lot. I found a couple of blisters on my feet, but nothing horrendous. Also found some comedy tan lines on my legs - the ones that never ever go brown <sigh> So Sunday was definitely a day of rest, taking it easy - and sleeping all afternoon as I was so exhausted!
On to Monday - the day that I was told I would feel worst. Only I woke up and felt fine. Still aching a little. but did the school run (walk) in normal time, and back again. Went for a few hours at a spa as a treat, very relaxing sauna, jacuzzi and massage. Had a little retail therapy in the afternoon - well I did deserve it. I had walked round an island after all!
And what now? Now I keep being asked when I'm doing the Jersey one (which is in two weeks). All from people who have never walked either. Apparently it's not enough that I've walked one. Most frustrating.......
It's like childbirth though - straight after you're adamant never again. Only you do. I am secretly contemplating the Jersey one in two weeks time. But if I do attempt it, I won't be telling anyone.
Saturday, 4 June 2011
The walk......
This part has been written retrospectively, I had better things to worry about when I was walking than blogging!
Started off at 4.30am at the harbour. Sunrise was 4.06 so it was still pretty dark, just starting to get light. It wasn't long before we started the climb up to the cliff paths. That was a shock to the system, would've been nice to get into a steady pace first, but it was also good to get the cliff paths out of the way first.
As the sun came up, it started to get really warm - and it was still so early! I had factor 50 on, but was starting to worry about just how hot it was going to get. Luckily, by 7am it had clouded over and was much cooler.
The sunrise itself looked fantastic. Much better than the pictures show. Out of the two, I much prefer sunsets, but there is no way I was planning on being still walking at sunset!
Guernseys cliffs are on the south coast, the rest of the island is pretty flat, and we were walking clockwise so once the cliff paths were out of the way, the second half of the walk was pretty flat all the way.
But first I had to tackle the cliff paths. I really didn't think I'd make it across them. So many steps, both up and down. This part of the walk was slow, and hard. It took me 3.5 hours to do the first 8 miles. I had walked Jerseys north coast before, and it was tough, but it didn't compare to Guernsey's south coast. Whoever it was that told me this walk would be easier, lied! The 10 miles or so of cliff paths in Guernsey involved almost constantly going up and down steps. Some of those steps were 2 feet up. Consequently I was jarring my knees and hips all the time. I can cope with steep climbs up ramps etc, but steps really do kill me.
There were times when I felt like I was going to fall back down one of the many sets of steps. Times when I thought they'd have to send the helicopter in to get me as I just couldn't climb any more steps.
But then I got to a water stop and was told that it was now an hour to the half way point and pretty much flat all the way. Which meant the cliff paths were almost over! Maybe I could walk a little further then.
At this point, I was going to get to the next checkpoint, at the end of the cliffs and stop. My legs had had enough. I wasn't fit enough to do this walk and had underestimated just how hard it was going to be.
I got to the 3rd checkpoint at about 11am, 6 and a half hours into the walk. And about 18 miles - the half way point. I was so happy to have got this far. Had a delivery of a very welcome bacon roll, tended to my now sore feet and started off again.
I had company for a mile or so now, which was good - chatting took my mind off how sore my legs and especially my left hip was - I had realised that I naturally lead with my left foot when I'm on stairs. This meant that is was my left knee and hip that was taking the most strain, and my hip was hurting. A lot.
Whilst I was glad to be off those horrendous cliff paths, they were at least interesting. Now the rest of the walk was flat. It was cloudy still, but now the wind was picking up too. The view was grey and miserable. Which really didn't help to spur me on. Now was the time for painkillers to help my hip, and for loud music - My Chemical Romance was just what I needed at this point!
Now, it was a case of just making it to the next checkpoint. That was all I could focus on. I couldn't think about ever getting to the finish line. Or even making it out alive at some points. It was hard. I wanted to cry. I wanted to curl up in a ball and go to sleep. It was then I realised that today was the day my stubbornness was a strength rather than a weakness. It was my stubbornness that kept me going when my head and my body was telling me to stop.
It seemed forever in between check points. I had no clue what time it was or how fast I was walking. I got to checkpoint 5 at around 3pm. This was at the top of the island and meant I had walked 29 miles, and had 10/11 left to go. Now the sun was back out again and it was really hot. I was going through fluids very quickly, was hurting, and needed sleep.
I had some more company from a friend so we chatted about 'stuff'. I have no idea what, I'm not sure I could string a sentence together but on I walked.
I reached the last checkpoint at about 4.45pm. 4 miles left to go at this point. The end was in sight. Whilst I was in a lot of pain, and was very tired, I was in much better shape than a lot of people. I wasn't limping and didn't have many blisters. It could have been a lot worse.
That last stretch back into town, was probably the longest. It was really hot, I had been walking for 12 hours, with only 5/10 min breaks at some of the checkpoints for food etc. My bag seemed to weigh a ton, and my legs felt heavy.
For the last 2 miles or so, I was walking around the bay, and so could see the finish line ahead of me. I think that really helped as I knew I was almost there. That quickened my pace and I found a last minute burst of energy - I wanted to get to that finish line as soon as possible!
When I got to the end, there were people cheering and clapping, there were balloons everywhere and I nearly collapsed on the spot.
I had made it.
Given I had wanted to give up before I even reached the half way point, to have actually completed it was a major shock - I really didn't think I could do it.
But I did. And I have the medal to prove it. It took me 13.5 hours I think in the end. But I finished it.
Started off at 4.30am at the harbour. Sunrise was 4.06 so it was still pretty dark, just starting to get light. It wasn't long before we started the climb up to the cliff paths. That was a shock to the system, would've been nice to get into a steady pace first, but it was also good to get the cliff paths out of the way first.
As the sun came up, it started to get really warm - and it was still so early! I had factor 50 on, but was starting to worry about just how hot it was going to get. Luckily, by 7am it had clouded over and was much cooler.
The sunrise itself looked fantastic. Much better than the pictures show. Out of the two, I much prefer sunsets, but there is no way I was planning on being still walking at sunset!
Guernseys cliffs are on the south coast, the rest of the island is pretty flat, and we were walking clockwise so once the cliff paths were out of the way, the second half of the walk was pretty flat all the way.
But first I had to tackle the cliff paths. I really didn't think I'd make it across them. So many steps, both up and down. This part of the walk was slow, and hard. It took me 3.5 hours to do the first 8 miles. I had walked Jerseys north coast before, and it was tough, but it didn't compare to Guernsey's south coast. Whoever it was that told me this walk would be easier, lied! The 10 miles or so of cliff paths in Guernsey involved almost constantly going up and down steps. Some of those steps were 2 feet up. Consequently I was jarring my knees and hips all the time. I can cope with steep climbs up ramps etc, but steps really do kill me.
There were times when I felt like I was going to fall back down one of the many sets of steps. Times when I thought they'd have to send the helicopter in to get me as I just couldn't climb any more steps.
But then I got to a water stop and was told that it was now an hour to the half way point and pretty much flat all the way. Which meant the cliff paths were almost over! Maybe I could walk a little further then.
At this point, I was going to get to the next checkpoint, at the end of the cliffs and stop. My legs had had enough. I wasn't fit enough to do this walk and had underestimated just how hard it was going to be.
I got to the 3rd checkpoint at about 11am, 6 and a half hours into the walk. And about 18 miles - the half way point. I was so happy to have got this far. Had a delivery of a very welcome bacon roll, tended to my now sore feet and started off again.
I had company for a mile or so now, which was good - chatting took my mind off how sore my legs and especially my left hip was - I had realised that I naturally lead with my left foot when I'm on stairs. This meant that is was my left knee and hip that was taking the most strain, and my hip was hurting. A lot.
Whilst I was glad to be off those horrendous cliff paths, they were at least interesting. Now the rest of the walk was flat. It was cloudy still, but now the wind was picking up too. The view was grey and miserable. Which really didn't help to spur me on. Now was the time for painkillers to help my hip, and for loud music - My Chemical Romance was just what I needed at this point!
Now, it was a case of just making it to the next checkpoint. That was all I could focus on. I couldn't think about ever getting to the finish line. Or even making it out alive at some points. It was hard. I wanted to cry. I wanted to curl up in a ball and go to sleep. It was then I realised that today was the day my stubbornness was a strength rather than a weakness. It was my stubbornness that kept me going when my head and my body was telling me to stop.
It seemed forever in between check points. I had no clue what time it was or how fast I was walking. I got to checkpoint 5 at around 3pm. This was at the top of the island and meant I had walked 29 miles, and had 10/11 left to go. Now the sun was back out again and it was really hot. I was going through fluids very quickly, was hurting, and needed sleep.
I had some more company from a friend so we chatted about 'stuff'. I have no idea what, I'm not sure I could string a sentence together but on I walked.
I reached the last checkpoint at about 4.45pm. 4 miles left to go at this point. The end was in sight. Whilst I was in a lot of pain, and was very tired, I was in much better shape than a lot of people. I wasn't limping and didn't have many blisters. It could have been a lot worse.
That last stretch back into town, was probably the longest. It was really hot, I had been walking for 12 hours, with only 5/10 min breaks at some of the checkpoints for food etc. My bag seemed to weigh a ton, and my legs felt heavy.
For the last 2 miles or so, I was walking around the bay, and so could see the finish line ahead of me. I think that really helped as I knew I was almost there. That quickened my pace and I found a last minute burst of energy - I wanted to get to that finish line as soon as possible!
When I got to the end, there were people cheering and clapping, there were balloons everywhere and I nearly collapsed on the spot.
I had made it.
Given I had wanted to give up before I even reached the half way point, to have actually completed it was a major shock - I really didn't think I could do it.
But I did. And I have the medal to prove it. It took me 13.5 hours I think in the end. But I finished it.
So this is it!
It's 3am. Only time I've seen 3am before is when I'm drunk and just crawling into bed, not when I'm about to walk 40 miles.
What am I doing?
What am I doing?
Friday, 3 June 2011
The Adventure begins
Just arrived in Guernsey. First time I've ever been here.
The plane was an experience! Tiny 15 seater plane, that felt like you were sat in the back of an old car - bench seats in rows of 2, that flipped forward to let people in the back. Very odd!
Flight itself only lasted 10 mins, and we could pretty much see land at all times. The plane was so light and it was pretty windy over Guernsey, so the landing was.... interesting.... shall we say. The pilot did really well to land us as well as he did given how much the plane was being blown about by the wind!
So now, time for food and maybe some wine. Early start tomorrow......
The plane was an experience! Tiny 15 seater plane, that felt like you were sat in the back of an old car - bench seats in rows of 2, that flipped forward to let people in the back. Very odd!
Flight itself only lasted 10 mins, and we could pretty much see land at all times. The plane was so light and it was pretty windy over Guernsey, so the landing was.... interesting.... shall we say. The pilot did really well to land us as well as he did given how much the plane was being blown about by the wind!
So now, time for food and maybe some wine. Early start tomorrow......
This time tomorrow
I'll (hopefully) be four hours into the walk. And hopefully will have tackled most of the more difficult cliffpaths.
Hopefully anyway !
For those that think this is an easy walk, that Guernsey is tiny, yes Guernsey is tiny. Hardly noticeable on the BBC weather map. But this walk is comparable to walking from Birmingham to Stoke or from South London to Brighton. According to google maps anyway!
Hopefully anyway !
For those that think this is an easy walk, that Guernsey is tiny, yes Guernsey is tiny. Hardly noticeable on the BBC weather map. But this walk is comparable to walking from Birmingham to Stoke or from South London to Brighton. According to google maps anyway!
Thursday, 2 June 2011
Time to pack
Well in less than 24 hours time, I'll be in Guernsey, getting ready to start the Itex (probably getting drunk to be honest - maybe the alcohol will numb the blisters?)
I'm putting off packing though as that will make it all seem real. Just how many blister plasters and paracetamol am I going to need?
And why am I doing this again? Can someone remind me what on earth was going through my head when I came up with this stupid idea??
I realised today, everyone else seems to have no doubts that I can do this. Or maybe they're just humouring me? I have no idea if I can finish it or not. And at the moment, I'm not sure I'm bothered if I do or not. At the very least, I've seen parts of Jersey that I've never seen before while I've been out training. I've had time to think, and ponder about my life and where it's heading. I've learnt more about myself over the last few months while doing this than I probably ever have. I really can't remember the original reason for me wanting to do this, but I'm glad I did decide to do it.
Even if I don't get off the starting line, I've still gained from this experience and am a better person for it.
Right, I better go pack!
I'm putting off packing though as that will make it all seem real. Just how many blister plasters and paracetamol am I going to need?
And why am I doing this again? Can someone remind me what on earth was going through my head when I came up with this stupid idea??
I realised today, everyone else seems to have no doubts that I can do this. Or maybe they're just humouring me? I have no idea if I can finish it or not. And at the moment, I'm not sure I'm bothered if I do or not. At the very least, I've seen parts of Jersey that I've never seen before while I've been out training. I've had time to think, and ponder about my life and where it's heading. I've learnt more about myself over the last few months while doing this than I probably ever have. I really can't remember the original reason for me wanting to do this, but I'm glad I did decide to do it.
Even if I don't get off the starting line, I've still gained from this experience and am a better person for it.
Right, I better go pack!
Monday, 30 May 2011
I saw Guernsey today.
Headed over to St Ouen's bay for dinner tonight and it was a pretty clear evening so I could see Guernsey, Sark, Herm etc.
I dunno what I'm worried about, Guernsey looks tiny from where I was stood. and all flat. This is going to be a doddle. ha!
I dunno what I'm worried about, Guernsey looks tiny from where I was stood. and all flat. This is going to be a doddle. ha!
Sunday, 29 May 2011
A week to go.....
well this time next week, the Itex will be over. I'll either have finished or bombed out. It will either be the worst thing or the best thing I've ever done. And at the moment, I really don't know which way it will go. I have no clue if I am fit enough to complete such a long walk. In fact, I'm not even sure it's about fitness, but more mind over matter, determination, stamina. I'm pretty stubborn, so maybe I'm stubborn enough not to give up?
What worries me is that I'm now walking it on my own. I did have a walking buddy, but he's now injured and the last thing I want is for his injury to be made worse because he's supporting me on my challenge. So I'm now doing it solo, which is a little daunting if I'm honest. I know there will be plenty of people doing the walk and I'll get to meet lots of them on the walk, but it's not the same as having a walking partner, being able to encourage each other and push each other onto the finishing line.
One of my colleagues at work is walking both the Guernsey and Jersey Itex's. And he's planning on walking them both in 24 hours total. Which works out at 16 mins a mile! On cliff paths! So, needless to say, I'm not planning on walking with him. I have no target time to complete this walk in. I will just be over the moon to finish at all, whether it takes me 12 hours or 20 hours. I'm secretly hoping for more like 12 hours though!
My new pedometer arrived in the week, so I figured I better test it today. Only I'm not sure I set it up properly. The walk I did today was 10.5 miles, only the pedometer thinks I walked 7.5. So something not right there. And apparently I walked 25000 steps - that's a fair amount of steps!!
Today I walked the east coast, from my house, out along the east coast round to Rozel in the north east. Not fantastic weather initially, looked like it was going to chuck it down, but I figured I can't choose the weather on the Itex so had better get used to the rain. But it actually didn't really rain much. It was very overcast and gloomy, but pretty warm at the same time. I guess, if the weather is like that next weekend then it'll be good conditions for the walk.
Oh My God. The itex is now less than a week away. What the hell have I let myself in for? I have to be a total lunatic.
What worries me is that I'm now walking it on my own. I did have a walking buddy, but he's now injured and the last thing I want is for his injury to be made worse because he's supporting me on my challenge. So I'm now doing it solo, which is a little daunting if I'm honest. I know there will be plenty of people doing the walk and I'll get to meet lots of them on the walk, but it's not the same as having a walking partner, being able to encourage each other and push each other onto the finishing line.
One of my colleagues at work is walking both the Guernsey and Jersey Itex's. And he's planning on walking them both in 24 hours total. Which works out at 16 mins a mile! On cliff paths! So, needless to say, I'm not planning on walking with him. I have no target time to complete this walk in. I will just be over the moon to finish at all, whether it takes me 12 hours or 20 hours. I'm secretly hoping for more like 12 hours though!
My new pedometer arrived in the week, so I figured I better test it today. Only I'm not sure I set it up properly. The walk I did today was 10.5 miles, only the pedometer thinks I walked 7.5. So something not right there. And apparently I walked 25000 steps - that's a fair amount of steps!!
Today I walked the east coast, from my house, out along the east coast round to Rozel in the north east. Not fantastic weather initially, looked like it was going to chuck it down, but I figured I can't choose the weather on the Itex so had better get used to the rain. But it actually didn't really rain much. It was very overcast and gloomy, but pretty warm at the same time. I guess, if the weather is like that next weekend then it'll be good conditions for the walk.
Oh My God. The itex is now less than a week away. What the hell have I let myself in for? I have to be a total lunatic.
Thursday, 26 May 2011
Combat here we come....
Second every combat class today and I am now officially 'into' combat. I love it.
Last week I spent most of the class trying to work out what the difference was between an upper cut and a jab and a hook, and trying to keep up with the pace. And my arms, shoulders and back ached for about 2 days afterwards.
This week, I was prepared. And I actually managed to keep up, and enjoy it. In fact, I really enjoyed it and want to do more than one a week. I didn't ache after this weeks class either, even though I put a lot more effort into it as I was getting the hang of the routines.....
Last week I spent most of the class trying to work out what the difference was between an upper cut and a jab and a hook, and trying to keep up with the pace. And my arms, shoulders and back ached for about 2 days afterwards.
This week, I was prepared. And I actually managed to keep up, and enjoy it. In fact, I really enjoyed it and want to do more than one a week. I didn't ache after this weeks class either, even though I put a lot more effort into it as I was getting the hang of the routines.....
Wednesday, 25 May 2011
Spinning
Oh my god, who the hell invented spinning? how on earth does anyone find it enjoyable???
I went to my first and last spinning class today. I absolutely hated it. It just seemed the complete opposite of what cycling should be. there were around 20 bikes in a small room, lights dimmed, music banging, and then the lights started flashing on and off to the music.
And we're supposed to cycle for an hour, with differing resistances on the bike. Sometimes standing up, sometimes seated.
It killed me. I felt physically sick and lightheaded.
I'm told everyone hates it the first time - so why on earth do they go back?? Bring on combat tomorrow night......
I went to my first and last spinning class today. I absolutely hated it. It just seemed the complete opposite of what cycling should be. there were around 20 bikes in a small room, lights dimmed, music banging, and then the lights started flashing on and off to the music.
And we're supposed to cycle for an hour, with differing resistances on the bike. Sometimes standing up, sometimes seated.
It killed me. I felt physically sick and lightheaded.
I'm told everyone hates it the first time - so why on earth do they go back?? Bring on combat tomorrow night......
Sunday, 22 May 2011
Last week the south coast, this week the north coast......
So the other day I was talking to my friend about training for the Itex. The south coast challenge had been my initial focus but that was over now. And I suddenly realised I had 3 weeks to go before the Itex!
Panic!
My friend casually said, 'why don't you walk the north coast this weekend?' What???? The north coast is where all the cliffs are. It's much harder than the south coast - that's the easy part of the island. This is real, hardcore walking. Was I really up for walking that? But then I realised I'd have to walk that and more in just a few weeks time.
I had every intention of getting up early and walking the whole of the north coast, from Grosnez in the north west, to Rozel in the north east. But then I woke up late. Didn't start walking until 10, but it was still achievable, I'd just finish later than intended.
I'd added a new app to my mobile. a gps walking 'thing' that tracked my distance, speed, location, altitute - the lot. Very snazzy. Only thing I hadn't factored in was that would drain the battery on my phone. Two hours in and my battery was almost flat, and being a lone walker on the steep cliffs with no means of communication wasn't the best of ideas. So the app got switched off, as did my email, facebook updates, weather updates - everything that could use the battery. My smartphone was no longer smart - it was just a phone! I can't remember the last time my mobile was 'just' a phone, nothing else. ho hum. Keep walking
Weather was good, sunny and warm. A little windy though but that just meant I didn't get too hot. It wasn't as though there was anyone I needed to have nice hair for anyway - I wasn't trying to impress anyone!
Well, this walk ended up being around the same length as the south coast challenge last week, but so much harder. The terrain was much rockier and there were a few times when I slipped and lost my footing. The climbs were really steep and what looked like only a short distance, actually took ages due to the winding cliff paths.
But while I was walking, it dawned on me that my fitness levels were actually increasing. Maybe the gym and the bit of exercise I'd been doing were actually paying off. Climbs where before I was having to stop and rest half way, I was now completing with comparative ease (I'm not for one minute saying I was jogging up them in case that's what you're thinking). But I can feel and see the difference. My legs, hips and bum are definitely getting smaller (I'm just grateful they're not getting bigger!), and my stamina levels are on the increase.
As for the weight loss, the original reason for doing this. Well I've lost only a pound or two over the last 2/3 months, and I'm still wearing the same size clothes, but those clothes fit better. I feel better in myself as I can see my body is changing for the better. My posture is better as I'm more conscious of how I'm standing. So although I'm not technically losing weight, I'm still happy with the results. And I keep telling myself that muscle weighs more than fat!
Anyway, back to the walking. The original plan was to walk to Rozel. A walk that would've been about 16/17 miles I think. Because of my phone situation, I got as far as Bouley Bay, around a 12/13 mile distance I think. Still a fair walk given the terrain I had covered. I walked to the highest point in Jersey today, and back down the other side and then some. I have taken more photos today too, I never tire of taking photos of the Jersey landscape. I look at it and just say wow! I really do appreciate having the opportunity to live on such a beautiful island.
So that's the north coast almost cracked. And looking at the maps I've been using, the length of cliff paths I walked today is more than the stretch of rugged terrain I will face in Guernsey in two weeks time. Two weeks? Is it really only two weeks away? I still have no clue if I'll complete the walk. Just the thought of it makes me want to bail out and take my friend up on her offer of a weekend in Sark. At the moment, I'm sorely tempted I have to admit. But, I know, if I don't at least attempt the Itex walk, I'll not forgive myself, it will mean all this work has been in vain. And I know deep down that I can at least give this a very good go, if not complete it. Whether I'll be able to walk afterwards is another matter. Maybe I need to see if Boots have got blister plasters on 3 for 2........
Panic!
My friend casually said, 'why don't you walk the north coast this weekend?' What???? The north coast is where all the cliffs are. It's much harder than the south coast - that's the easy part of the island. This is real, hardcore walking. Was I really up for walking that? But then I realised I'd have to walk that and more in just a few weeks time.
I had every intention of getting up early and walking the whole of the north coast, from Grosnez in the north west, to Rozel in the north east. But then I woke up late. Didn't start walking until 10, but it was still achievable, I'd just finish later than intended.
I'd added a new app to my mobile. a gps walking 'thing' that tracked my distance, speed, location, altitute - the lot. Very snazzy. Only thing I hadn't factored in was that would drain the battery on my phone. Two hours in and my battery was almost flat, and being a lone walker on the steep cliffs with no means of communication wasn't the best of ideas. So the app got switched off, as did my email, facebook updates, weather updates - everything that could use the battery. My smartphone was no longer smart - it was just a phone! I can't remember the last time my mobile was 'just' a phone, nothing else. ho hum. Keep walking
Weather was good, sunny and warm. A little windy though but that just meant I didn't get too hot. It wasn't as though there was anyone I needed to have nice hair for anyway - I wasn't trying to impress anyone!
Well, this walk ended up being around the same length as the south coast challenge last week, but so much harder. The terrain was much rockier and there were a few times when I slipped and lost my footing. The climbs were really steep and what looked like only a short distance, actually took ages due to the winding cliff paths.
But while I was walking, it dawned on me that my fitness levels were actually increasing. Maybe the gym and the bit of exercise I'd been doing were actually paying off. Climbs where before I was having to stop and rest half way, I was now completing with comparative ease (I'm not for one minute saying I was jogging up them in case that's what you're thinking). But I can feel and see the difference. My legs, hips and bum are definitely getting smaller (I'm just grateful they're not getting bigger!), and my stamina levels are on the increase.
As for the weight loss, the original reason for doing this. Well I've lost only a pound or two over the last 2/3 months, and I'm still wearing the same size clothes, but those clothes fit better. I feel better in myself as I can see my body is changing for the better. My posture is better as I'm more conscious of how I'm standing. So although I'm not technically losing weight, I'm still happy with the results. And I keep telling myself that muscle weighs more than fat!
Anyway, back to the walking. The original plan was to walk to Rozel. A walk that would've been about 16/17 miles I think. Because of my phone situation, I got as far as Bouley Bay, around a 12/13 mile distance I think. Still a fair walk given the terrain I had covered. I walked to the highest point in Jersey today, and back down the other side and then some. I have taken more photos today too, I never tire of taking photos of the Jersey landscape. I look at it and just say wow! I really do appreciate having the opportunity to live on such a beautiful island.
So that's the north coast almost cracked. And looking at the maps I've been using, the length of cliff paths I walked today is more than the stretch of rugged terrain I will face in Guernsey in two weeks time. Two weeks? Is it really only two weeks away? I still have no clue if I'll complete the walk. Just the thought of it makes me want to bail out and take my friend up on her offer of a weekend in Sark. At the moment, I'm sorely tempted I have to admit. But, I know, if I don't at least attempt the Itex walk, I'll not forgive myself, it will mean all this work has been in vain. And I know deep down that I can at least give this a very good go, if not complete it. Whether I'll be able to walk afterwards is another matter. Maybe I need to see if Boots have got blister plasters on 3 for 2........
Thursday, 19 May 2011
finally succumbed to a combat class
I've had a few friends keep telling me I should try a combat class. Apparently it's fantastic. Best thing since sliced bread if you believe them.
I didn't believe them but figured I'd give it a go - just to shut my friends up you understand.
So there I was in my first exercise class for I don't know how long. Probably 10-15 years. And there were a lot of people in there, some were pretty scary looking if I'm honest.
And then we were off. An hour of what I can honestly say was the weirdest form of exercise I'd done before. I'm not a violent person by any means so to be told to imagine we're 'punching his head in' repeatedly, was a little alien to me. But I was there to give it a fair try, and I did.
My sense of rhythm isn't the greatest, but it's not the worst either. I concentrated on trying to keep up with the class for most of it - it was pretty fast paced. So I had no clue if I was supposed to be doing a jab, an upper cut, a cross, or something else entirely. But I kept moving, kind of in time to the rest of the class. And I was very hot at the end of it so I must've done something!
The next day, boy did my arms and shoulders hurt. So maybe I was putting more effort into it than I thought I was?
Maybe it does work after all. I think I shall have to try another class this week before I decide one way or the other. But I think I'll have to learn to become a bit more aggressive if I'm going to really get into this class
I didn't believe them but figured I'd give it a go - just to shut my friends up you understand.
So there I was in my first exercise class for I don't know how long. Probably 10-15 years. And there were a lot of people in there, some were pretty scary looking if I'm honest.
And then we were off. An hour of what I can honestly say was the weirdest form of exercise I'd done before. I'm not a violent person by any means so to be told to imagine we're 'punching his head in' repeatedly, was a little alien to me. But I was there to give it a fair try, and I did.
My sense of rhythm isn't the greatest, but it's not the worst either. I concentrated on trying to keep up with the class for most of it - it was pretty fast paced. So I had no clue if I was supposed to be doing a jab, an upper cut, a cross, or something else entirely. But I kept moving, kind of in time to the rest of the class. And I was very hot at the end of it so I must've done something!
The next day, boy did my arms and shoulders hurt. So maybe I was putting more effort into it than I thought I was?
Maybe it does work after all. I think I shall have to try another class this week before I decide one way or the other. But I think I'll have to learn to become a bit more aggressive if I'm going to really get into this class
Monday, 16 May 2011
The day after the walk.....
I booked today off work. More because I didn't know how bad I'd be today. How many blisters my new boots had given me. How achey my unfit body would be.
Well i was up, took the little guy to school and then spent the day pottering. Even managed a bike ride in the afternoon. No blisters, no aches and pains at all.
Maybe I can do the Itex after all!
Although..... that's more than twice the distance I walked yesterday so maybe not. I guess worse case scenario I can at least walk half the Itex - better than a lot of people manage!
Well i was up, took the little guy to school and then spent the day pottering. Even managed a bike ride in the afternoon. No blisters, no aches and pains at all.
Maybe I can do the Itex after all!
Although..... that's more than twice the distance I walked yesterday so maybe not. I guess worse case scenario I can at least walk half the Itex - better than a lot of people manage!
Sunday, 15 May 2011
South Coast Challenge has arrived
Today was the day. My first major walk in 20 years. I was a little nervous, understandably I think. Would I be able to keep up with the others? Would I even finish? Would I fall off a cliff and end up fish food? All of these things, and lots more were going through my mind as we set off.
I was walking with a group of 6 other girls. Some of them had done it before which was helpful. Only two of them had I met before, so the walk was full of get-to-know you chat and general girly banter - it was great!
The weather was perfect, sunny and warm, but with a breeze. So off we set. We quickly split into two groups, only a minute or so apart but we needed to keep to our own paces and that worked.
Five hours later, after a few stops to customise our horrible t-shirts etc, we arrived at Corbiere. A sense of achievement could be seen on all our faces. It's not the longest walk in the world by any means, and half of it was pretty flat, but it was still a good walk, with some very steep climbs in places. In fact, the motto of the day was 'think of the ass'. It was that that got us up some of those very steep climbs!
But at the end of the day, I had finished the walk, I had kept up with the group (in fact I'd been setting the pace for some of it), and I most definitely hadn't fallen off the cliff and ended up as fish food. Result! In addition to that, I had made some new friends, had seen some fantastic scenery (lots of photos taken), and accomplished something that I wouldn't have even contemplated a year ago. Such as lot has changed in a year. My life is totally unrecognisable.
Thursday, 12 May 2011
My last training session
well today was my third and final training session. I am going to miss them to be honest. Work is pretty stressful at the moment, and the last thing I want to do is go work out at the gym, but actually having that appointment, and needing to keep it, is forcing me to go. And don't quote me on it, but I'm actually starting to enjoy going. I still have no clue what I'm doing with the machines, and most importantly, how to change channel. But I have a better idea of what exercises to be doing.
More upper body work today - there was no way I was doing leg work so close to the south coast challenge! More rowing, more weights, more pushups, more crunches, more weird exercises with an exercise ball etc etc. oh and don't forget the rowing which again I was told I was really good at.
The funny thing is, I can actually see/feel a difference now. Only a small one mind, but given I've only been going for a few weeks, then I'm quite impressed to be honest. I can see the difference in my arms, so I'm definitely keeping up with the arm weights. Bingo wings be gone!
And I can see a difference in my stamina too. I can go for longer periods on the machines now, at a quicker pace. All good stuff. My friends keep telling me to try a combat class. I'm not so sure on that one......
Sunday, 8 May 2011
the South Coast Challenge is creeping up
As part of a prelude to the Itex in June, someone who shall remain nameless talked me into doing the South Coast Challenge. It's a 15 mile (18 with the cliffs) walk from La Rocque (SE Jersey), across to Corbiere (SW Jersey). Pretty flat for most of it, but with some cliffs for the second half. The walk is in aid of Jersey Mencap, a very worthwhile cause and I'll be doing it with a group of girls I've never met - well I know one of them pretty well, and have met another of them once. But it will be good practice for the Itex and it's always good to meet new people.
Anyway, this walk is creeping up on me. in fact it's next weekend. And my training to date has been minimal to say the least. I've walked around 8miles so far in my new boots. I've been wearing them to work (and don't they look fetching with my work clothes lol) etc, but how will I know when they're actually broken in??
So I figured it was time to get serious with this walking lark. I got hubbie to drop me off at Corbiere and figured I'd walk as far as I could and then call him to pick me up. Carry on walking until either my unfit body or my boots got the better of me.
Well I got all the way home. Which is only about 1.5/2 miles short of the SCC challenge route next week. So I guess that means the boots are broken in? maybe? oh I don't know! I didn't realise this walking lark could get so technical.
It is the first walk I've done on my own, and I absolutely loved it. The weather was dry, a little cloudy but fine for what I needed. On the way, I pondered life, the universe and everything else. I saw lizards, butterflies, pheasants, all sorts of things that I don't usually see when I'm walking to work. I had taken some music and my headphones with me, but it just didn't seem appropriate to drown out the sound of the waves crashing against the rocks, or the birds nesting, with the Kaiser Chiefs or Adele.
It was hard work, especially on the cliff paths, but I could literally feel the inches coming off my butt and thighs - fan-bloody-tastic! I'm really starting to enjoy this exercise lark.
Thursday, 5 May 2011
And I'm going back for more because???
Second personal training session at the gym today. Grant seemed to find it highly amusing that my thighs hurt for 4 days after that first session. It'll get easier he tells me. But he's going to work me harder today.
Help!
This week we concentrated on my arms, shoulders and back. I was just happy it wasn't my thighs! It would appear that I'm good at rowing - very good speeds so I'm told. Shame I can't swim really isn't it! I just need to make sure work don't hear about my rowing skills else I'll get dragged into the Dragon Boat races in the summer. I'm much happier cheering from the sidelines.......
Saturday, 30 April 2011
Breaking in the boots
I'm a little apprehensive about breaking these boots in. Everyones telling me it'll take weeks. And I don't have weeks! Anyway, did another short cliff walk today. From Devils Hole to Greve de Lecq and back (stopping for a rather nice pub lunch and well earned shandy when we'd finished)
and my feet surivived the new boots, no blisters, no aches and pains. Maybe they'll be ok after all. maybe I have tough feet - unlike the rest of me.....
Friday, 29 April 2011
I seriously can't walk
I know they say it's the second day that you hurt the most, it's true. I can vouch for it. I think I am currently waddling like a duck
Thursday, 28 April 2011
Ouch!
Oh my god I'm aching today. My thighs especially. Those bench presses have really killed my thighs.
This had better be worth it
First training session
I was scared. I don't mind admitting it. I am so unfit. And now I'm going to have a PT called Grant taking my measurements and working out where I needed the most help - that bits easy, everywhere!
So after work, I apprehensively made my way over to the gym, got changed and waited. Well, he's actually a really nice bloke (not sure if I was expecting two heads or something?), took my vital statistics, brief history and off we went.
45 mins of cross trainer, arm weights, rower, bench presses, cycling, more weights, crunches, and god knows what else, and I was knackered. totally knackered. But in a good way, I had taken the plunge into the world of all these gym bunnies and body builders (I'm not hoping to be either before you ask) and I felt good.
Lets hope I can keep this up!
Sunday, 24 April 2011
New Boots (but not kinky ones!)
while back in Brum over the easter weekend, I managed to pick up some walking boots. reduced from 80 quid down to 20. Bargain! I have no idea what constitutes a good quality walking boot, but these fit, I could walk in them, and they were pretty comfy. What more do I need?
Friday, 22 April 2011
Now I know I've gone mad
I've joined the local gym. I really have gone round the bend now. What was I thinking??
Well, I'll tell you what I was thinking. Losing weight has left me with, shall we say, certain areas that need more work than others. Whilst the exercise and walking etc is helping me to tone up generally, I need a little help in other areas. But also, I know I have strong legs so from that aspect I'm not worried about the walks I've got coming up. It's my stamina and general fitness levels I'm more concerned about (apart from the blisters of course lol) I'm borderline asthmatic, although haven't had an attack in years, and carrying extra weight means I get out of breath and turn a nice shade of purple quite easily.
So, another moment of madness (I seem to be having a few lately), and I'm now signed up to 12 months at the local gym. I better make the most of it then!
Only problem is, the 'special deal' they've given me (waiving the joining fee), means I don't get an induction. I am just expected to go and use all this highly technical equipment without anyone showing me. Now who's the mad ones! The last time I was inside a gym, Reebok Step was the latest craze - not combat and zumba. The machines didn't even have heart rate monitors on them, let alone the satellite tv channels that they all have on them now - who was going to show me how to change the channel????
So I've ended up buying three personal training sessions, just to get me going. Those cost me more than the induction would've done - the one that they waived the fee for. Go figure!
Sunday, 10 April 2011
Cliff walking begins
So today was my first cliff walk. A pretty short one compared to what I'll be walking in June, but it was a start.
Along the north coast with my friend, from White Rock to Bouley Bay and back again. about 8/10 miles in total. Weather was fantastic, scenery out of this world. I feel so lucky to live on such a beautiful island. Having grown up in one of the UKs major cities, to be living on a small island, surrounded by beaches and cliffs, is totally alien to me. It really does make you appreciate the little things.
And one of the little things I noticed while doing this walk, my trainers would not be suitable for walking the Itex. Maybe not such a little thing. Maybe I needed walking boots........
Tuesday, 22 March 2011
First walk
So tonight was my first walk. A baby walk. Just around the reservoir with my friend come personal trainer. A 2/3 mile power walk, pretty flat, pretty boring. But it means that the training is now under way!!
Tuesday, 1 March 2011
Introduction
welcome to my first ever blog. not quite sure how these things work so you'll most likely need to bear with me.
I figured it would helpful to give you a little bit of info about me, and why this blog has come about.
My name's Michelle, I'm 36 and live in Jersey in the Channel Islands. I haven't lived here long, coming up for 2 years now, and my life has changed almost totally since we moved here. The fresh air and natural life style change triggered me starting to lose weight. I had always been overweight, always. But when I started losing weight just from being more active etc, I decided to take advantage and joined a slimming club. The weight started to come off consistently and it wasn't long before I'd lost 5 stone, and gone down 5 dress sizes. I felt fantastic.
But then the weight loss slowed down, ground to a complete halt in fact, which was bound to happen. I needed to up the exercise, I needed something to focus on. Which is how me doing the Itex walk came about. Most likely on a drunken night out, but of course once people knew about it, then I couldn't back down could I??!?
So, what is the Itex? Well it's a round-the-island walk. A very long walk. For Jersey its 48 miles, but as it's all cliffs and going up and down them, then it apparently works out around 70 miles (eek!). That was a little too ambitious for me, so I decided to do the Guernsey Itex. Guernsey is smaller and flatter, so less distance to walk. This was my logic anyway! The Guernsey Itex is 38.5 miles which works out about 50 miles taking the cliffs into account. Much more manageable, although still a fair distance!
The firm I work for is sponsoring this years Itex in both islands, and when they first asked me to do a blog I said nooooo. I'd never blogged before. I can't write. It would be boring (it most likely will, but I'm doing it anyway), but as the Itex came closer, I decided to start documenting it, for my own personal record if nothing else.
so here goes.....
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