tramping new zealand

Slowly, I cranked up the walking.

Back to 10,000 steps a day, but that

First distance, and around the six-month mark, I started on the nearby steep hills.

It won’t be long before I try an overnighter in a hut carrying a pack.

It’s a case of continuing to build up strength and not overdoing it.

The test is supposed to be when you can do 80% of the number of single heel raises with the weaker leg than the stronger.

Almost there.

The main thing I’ve learnt from the experience is that I should do more preventative exercises before I head off tramping.

Don’t leap from a standing start to 4th gear and expect my body to cope. It’s not 20 years old any more.

Keep up the hill climbing. The Nelson Cathedral steps. The heel raises in front of my kitchen sink.

I’ve kept a big cork chunk there to remind me.

But this whole change of plan means I’ve crossed out 2023–24 in my itinerary and written in 2024–25.

I am still hoping for Waitutu State Forest in six months’ time and getting back to Burn Creek Hut.

I don’t want my injury to bring my outdoor adventures to a conclusion.

It hasn’t been too traumatic, with plenty of non-tramping things being crossed off my to-do list.

The worst bit was up until the cast was removed on Day 27.

You show resilience and get back into it.