Category: santiago

Padron-Santiago

by Fitness Excel, posted in camino, pilgrim walk, santiago
Santiago

I depart the warm hostel at 6.30am for the final 25km of the walk into the cold, chilly morning air. The route leads out of Padron, there are about 80 other pilgrims silently proceeding down a flat path, passing farmhouses and fields, it is very dark and there is not much conversation. About 30 minutes later we walk out of the darkness into light as the glorious sun appears above the farmhouses. We reach A Escravitude and delight in the splendid views of Padron. The way leads to traditional villages, historic places, rivers and towns, eventually reaching Santiago. The cathedral is under renovation, but still as magnificent with plenty to see inside as well as outside absorbing the atmosphere of singing and listening to the bagpipes as pilgrims congregate in the square congratulating each other on their journey.

Redondela-Pontevedra

by Fitness Excel, posted in camino, health, pilgrim walk, santiago, well-being
Buen Camino

Day 3 – Another 6.30am start as it is going to be a tough day walking in the heat. Passing through and leaving Redondela behind, there is a much to see to include the estuary of Vigo and its islands. I merge with a long convoy of walkers in good spirit who greet each other with ‘Buen Camino’. Continuing along the way there are quaint villages, cobbled streets, crossing the medieval bridge of Ponte Sampaio, a varied, hilly route, with numerous places to stop for rest where you can get a 3 course pilgrim lunch at most restaurants for 10 euros. Eventually arriving in the historic centre of Pontevedra, for a well deserved back massage with the local physiotherapist.

Camino & Resilience

by Fitness Excel, posted in adventure education, camino, fitness for the camino, fitness walking, health, mental health, outdoors learning, pilgrim walk, Resilience, santiago, well-being

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The route continued to Palas De Rei. After leaving Portomarin, crossing the River Mino we continued uphill steadily through woodland, the rain continued and got heavier and heavier. Continuing through small hamlets, passing the Hospital de la Cruz. Arriving at Vendas de Naron to get a ‘pilgrim stamp’ the old Romanesque Chapel, then continuing along the paved path, arriving at Sierra de Ligonde which offered fantastic views over the valleys. Particular parts of the route were isolated and quiet, apart from a rather large dog. The fog was dense and we were soaked through.

Approaching A Calzada the weather was so bad, we took shelter under a tree. There were other walkers, one an Australian man, we had met further back in other towns.  After discussing the weather, our blisters, stories of one walker getting frostbite back in the Pyrenees, our conversation compared the weather to life and the Camino, there are good and bad times, but we must press forwards.

The Camino de Santiago builds resilience, both emotionally and physically, it enables us to develop a positive mind and can-do-attitude.  We can integrate resilience into our lives on a daily basis, by being more active, getting more sleep and eating well, forgiving ourselves and resolving conflict. These small steps can help us improve our mental health and to face everyday challenges.

Camino & Mindfulness

by Fitness Excel, posted in camino, fitness for the camino, fitness walking, health, mental health, outdoors learning, pilgrim walk, posture - the neck, santiago, well-being

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Camino de Santiago is an excellent reason to take time out and integrate some walking mindfulness into your Camino.  Be aware of the sounds of nature, the wind, sun, rain and other people.  How can we become mindful of our experience of walking? Start with a natural relaxed walking rhythm, keep your attention in the soles of your feet, being aware of the alternating patterns of contact with your foot as it makes contact with the ground, then focus on sensations in your muscles and joints, expanding that awareness into your posture and breathing.

Classic Camino-Frances

by Fitness Excel, posted in camino, health, outdoors learning, pilgrim walk, santiago, Uncategorized, well-being

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Considering walking the Camino-Frances.  Why not start in Sarria – known for its fabulous hospitality and local traditional food.  As you begin your walk, you will pass through stunning scenery, picturesque villages, hamlets and many beautiful landscapes, in rural Galicia.  The atmosphere is unique.  Once you arrive in Santiago, a UNESCO world heritage city, visit the cathedral, claim your certificate from the Pilgrim office. There is plenty of time to explore, reflect on your journey and relax in this stunning town.  visit http://www.fitness-excel.com/home to view our video of Sarria-Santiago.

Camino, Health & Well-being

by Fitness Excel, posted in camino, fitness for the camino, fitness walking, health, pilgrim walk, santiago, well-being

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Having just completed the Camino de Santiago, 112 km last leg, embarking on a long walk can reap many benefits.  The Camino gives many qualities such as physical fitness and wellness, mental stamina, mindfulness, social health of interacting with like-minded pilgrims also on the same journey.  Equally important is being surrounded by nature and taking care of the environment.  The physical and social environment in which we live is very different from the one in which humans evolved, there have been dramatic changes in our diet, a decrease in our physical activity levels, increased stimulation from social media which has been associated with poor health.  Walking the Camino enables us to get back to the basics, regular physical activity, less processed food, travelling light and taken time out for reflection.

Conditioning for the Camino

by Fitness Excel, posted in camino, fitness for the camino, fitness walking, pilgrim walk, preparation and packing for walking, santiago

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Walking the Camino de Santiago is going to challenge all muscles and joints, particularly as the accumulation of mileage increases over the forthcoming days.  Today’s exercise focus is on the pelvis, hips, hamstrings, quads and gluteals.  Muscles undergo some form of conditioning during everyday activities such as stair climbing, getting up out of a chair and walking. However, when walking for a series of consecutive days it is important to ensure there is sufficient control of the pelvis when walking. There should be a balance of the hip musculature, so that the extensors do not overpower the flexors.  A simple conditioning exercise to do is the ‘squat’, ensuring good joint alignment and positioning is undertaken when performing the exercise.

 

Pilgrimage Sarria-Santiago April 2018

by Fitness Excel, posted in camino, fitness for the camino, pilgrim walk, preparation and packing for walking, santiago

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This is my second Camino de Santiago de Compostela and I am gathering everything together for the last leg of the trip.  I want to help you with your packing if you are walking the Camino. As the walk is longer this year, I have made some adjustments to my packing.

Essentials: Cross trainers with insoles – I find these trainers much lighter than hiking boots as they are lighter, insoles help with plantar fasciitus, a painful foot problem. A  massage ball to stretch and release any pain after each day’s walk. Fleeces, a light weight jacket with a hood, T-shirts, long sleeve breathable to wick away any moisture. The temperature can change, it could be chilly or hot, so you need to prepare for unpredictable weather. Leggings, these are a super, easy, light weight garment which can be rolled up and do not to forget to pack your shorts. Walking sticks, you can buy these from any outdoor store.  A good supportive sports bra which avoids friction. Separate shoes to change into, socks (loads of pairs). First aid kit – plasters, taping, anti-inflammatory medicines.  Maps, Credencial del Peregrine. Sun tan cream, glasses, camera, hat.  Have a great Camino.

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