In 2012 we over-trained for our Camino. Or maybe Mike just wasn't quite in tune with his body. He developed tendonitis about 1 month before the trip and had to cut back on walking almost completely until we got to Spain.
This year we might be under-training. Mike's knee required minor surgery in June. An MRI revealed that there was a small piece of bone behind his knee cap (it obviously did not belong there). The "loose body" was removed and the 3 months from then until now have been more difficult than expected. Mike has only gradually been able to increase the distance, elevation, and the weight he is carrying on our training hikes. In the last few days his knee is feeling much stronger.
Ruth has done very well both in 2012 and in 2014. She has done several hikes throughout this summer with a few friends and has not developed any serious injuries.
Our advice concerning preparing for the Camino is to try to find a balance between too much and too little training. To be specific, we would say you need regular short walks, almost daily, for several weeks. Then at least a couple of hikes in the 10-12 mile range shortly before you leave for Europe. See the next post about feet and boots, as blisters cause more pain on the Camino than any other single problem.
We feel very good about our preparation and are very confident about a successful Camino! No matter what the future holds, we have completely enjoyed our Colorado hikes this summer. Here is a picture from our recent walk in Staunton State Park west of Conifer.
And below is one from Ruth's last big training hike with Bobbie and Pam
We do live in a beautiful state.
Yes you do live in a beautiful state! I lived in Boulder for 3 years and the last photo reminds me of the beautiful cloudless blue skies there. Coming from sea level here in Texas, I marveled everyday as I drove past the flatirons.
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