Physical Preparation

The pioneers were a hardy, physically fit people. They also prepared extensively before their journey.

Prepare yourself physically so you can gain the most spiritually from your Trek experience. “Each participant (both leaders and youth) should condition themselves physically for this experience. Specifically, each participant should be able to complete a minimum requirement of walking/running 5km on level ground in 60 minutes or less with no undue stress.” (“Handcart Trek Guidelines for Leaders” p.18, published by the Church , 2015.)

We encourage all youth to ensure that they have developed their walking fitness before coming on trek. In the months before Trek we encourage families and ward youth groups to explore nature and go on some hiking trips around WA to build confidence, fitness and to have fun.

Please note that walking on uneven ground is different to walking on footpaths.

Exercise with your Trek shoes on, break them in before Trek.

Start with shorter distances, gradually increase distance.

Practice extra hydration; drink more water than normal while training.

Physical preparation cannot be completed in a short period of time.

GET YOUR FEET READY

Begin now to find the right shoes to wear. Wearing the wrong shoes on the trek will rub you wrong and that means foot pain and blisters. Remember, your toes need room to expand, because your feet will swell as you walk on the trek. So be sure to bring only comfy trekking shoes. Wearing the wrong shoes on the trek will give you blisters and will make walking very painful.

Regardless of if you choose to wear running shoes or light weight hiking shoes. You must be sure that you have done significant kilometres in them and preferably have done it on uneven terrain.

CRITICAL: Make sure that you have walked long distance in the shoes that you are going to wear on trek.

DO NOT bring brand new shoes to trek or you will get blisters.

While on Trek, at the first hint of blisters forming (hot spots) immediately tell your Ma or Pa and get it treated.

CHAFING

Following blister, chafing is one of the more common complaints of trek participants. Chafing is most common between the thighs but can occur at any point where skin repeatedly rubs against skin. Even if you play a lot of sport and don't have an issue with chafing, the repetitive nature of walking long distance can still result in chafing.

We ask youth to be prepared for chafing as it can cause a lot of discomfort. Like blisters, it is better to prevent than treat.

While on trek, immediately notify your Ma and Pa or first aider if you feel the first signs of chafing.

How to avoid chafing?

Create a physical barrier. wearing bike shorts or longer underwear can help to prevent thighs rubbing.
Keep the area dry. Using powders can help to keep the area dry and prevent friction.
Use chafing cream to provide lubrication to areas that may rub.