A plan of action: although some of you will have decided to take part in the HLBW some time ago (perhaps when you saw press coverage about the event last summer), some of you may only have signed up more recently.  But don’t worry – 6-8 weeks is still enough time to prepare for a walk of this distance. Walking is one of the best forms of exercise you can take part in – and once you start, you might be surprised at just how fit you are!

The beauty of the HLBW is that it’s not a race – you can take it at your own pace and take time to enjoy the sights as you pass London’s spectacular landmarks!

Work out a plan and take it one step at a time and don’t push yourself too far, too soon. You should be aiming to do at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise at least 3 times a week, so planning a brisk walk across a local park or round your town or neighbourhood should be an easy, cheap and pleasant way of incorporating exercise into your daily routine.

If you are in any doubt about your level of fitness, if you have an existing injury or health complaint or are experiencing any niggling joint pains, then don’t hesitate to speak to your GP first.

The HLBW is around 10km long – so ideally you should be able to comfortably walk at least two thirds of that distance (around 6.5km) just before the event. The ‘buzz’ and adrenalin on the day (as well as support from your fellow walkers) will really help you to go the extra mile and reach the finishing line.

Why not invest in a pedometer as part of your training plan? They are lightweight and can be purchased (quite reasonably) from many high street stores and pharmacies as well as online.

Pedometers really help you to track your progress and can be very motivating as you see your distance, stamina and fitness increase over the weeks of training.

Keep it ‘strapped on’ on as you go about your daily activities – you’ll be amazed at how many ‘steps’ you are already clocking up as part of your day-to-day life.
 

Bend & stretch!: The most important thing to do when preparing for the walk is to avoid injury and illness. Flexibility exercises, particularly for the lower (calfs) and upper legs (thighs and hamstrings) and your bum and lower back before and after every walk should help you avoid injury. A good pair of walking shoes (see below) and some comfortable and breathable socks can help you avoid those problematic blisters. Remember to keep hydrated and keep your energy levels high. The best advice is ‘little and often’ and try eating and drinking in training to avoid problems on the day.
 

Find yourself a ‘buddy’ - are you walking alone or with a friend? Many of you will be coming to London in July as part of a group (perhaps in memory of a friend or colleague who has lost their life to sudden cardiac death) which can be a great support as you take on the challenge together.  However, it’s also really useful to find yourself a training ‘buddy’ as you prepare for the walk as it’s so much more motivating (and harder to ‘get out of’!) if you arrange to train together. It’s also safer and much more fun to walk in pairs.

Get the right gear: You’ve heard the expression, “all the gear, but no idea”!? Well, for a walk of this distance you really don’t need to go out and spend a fortune on lots of sports equipment - whatever the sales staff might tell you! Well fitted trainers (from a reputable high street store or specialist sports shop) as well as comfortable, airy clothes (shorts and T-shirt with a lightweight rain jacket in case the British weather lives up to its reputation, even in July!) is all you need. Just make sure you ‘wear in’ your trainers before the big day - brand new shoes are likely to become really uncomfortable.
 

Mind over matter: Most of the walkers taking part on July 26^th will have a very personal and powerful reason for doing so. The HLBW is always a special - but emotional – day, bringing together hundreds of families and friends who have been affected by the tragic condition, sudden cardiac death in the young. The motivation to complete the walk and to raise money for CRY will be immensely strong and will really help you on your way.
 

And finally…

Celebrate Your Success: Walking 10kms, across so many of London’s bridges (whilst taking in 12 of the capitals most memorable landmarks), on a hot July day, is no mean feat and you’ll deserve a bit pat on the back!

Why not book yourself a massage (or pedicure) a couple of days after the event as a treat and perhaps arrange for friends to come over to hear all about the Walk, look at photos from the day and toast your achievement with a glass of your favourite tipple! Knowing you’ve got something to look forward to, will really help to spur you on if the going gets tough half way around the course!
 

A VERY BIG THANK YOU FROM ME AND EVERYONE AT CRY (STAFF, VOLUNTEERS & PATRONS).

WE COULDN’T CONTINUE OUR PIONEERING WORK WITHOUT YOUR FUNDRAISING SUPPORT - SO WELL DONE FOR TAKING PART IN THIS WALK!