Zoom Replay: Preparing Physically & More for the March

Rachel Cross is a part of the GMM community who has walked multiple 500+ mile pilgrimages. In this Zoom she shares a bit of her story and ways to prepare / what to purchase… for the March.

Her lists of suggested gear and how to prepare can be accessed in Google Drive HERE.

Here are some notes from our gathering:

Rachel’s Walking Experience Overview

• Completed four 500+ mile sacred treks

  • Three Camino de Santiago routes (France/Spain)

  • Half of Shikoku Buddhist pilgrimage (Japan)

• Started long-distance walking at age 54

• 62-year-old artist, not super athlete

• All walks began solo, formed walking families along route

Essential Gear & Preparation

• Footwear critical for blister prevention:

  • Shoes half to full size larger (feet swell during daily walking)

  • Start wearing new shoes daily before march

  • Double-layer socks (Right Sock brand recommended)

  • Keep toenails short

• Daily foot care routine:

  • Body Glide Anti-Blister product on foot bottoms

  • Two shoe pairs: hiking boots + hiking sandals for evenings

• Trekking poles reduce 25% weight/impact on joints

• Essential items: buff/bandana, rain pants, early morning starts