By Uli, Head Trainer at Forever Active
We’re kicking off our very first Forever Active International Adventure and what better way to begin than walking the Camino de Santiago!
On September 23rd, we’ll set out from Porto, Portugal, and make our way along this historic trail to Santiago de Compostela. The countdown is officially on! Just eight weeks to go and we couldn’t be more excited to take on this journey together.
Whether you’re joining us on the Camino or simply preparing for your own walking adventure, we invite you to walk alongside us — in person or in spirit. This training plan is for anyone looking to build strength, endurance, and confidence in the lead up to the adventure.
Your 8-Week Walking Adventure Training Plan
The best way to enjoy a walking trip, whether it’s the Camino de Santiago or something closer to home is to arrive with your legs and lungs ready. Not overtrained. Not undertrained. Just ready to walk and enjoy the experience day after day.
This plan builds gradually over 8 weeks and includes a downloadable schedule with a suggested walking breakdown (Monday–Sunday), space for notes, and helpful reminders. It’s flexible, beginner-friendly, and designed to give you just the right amount of challenge without burnout.
Here’s a quick overview of how the plan progresses:
Weeks 1–2: Foundation & Form
Focus on posture, cadence, and consistency. Begin wearing your daypack and breaking in your shoes on short, easy walks.
Week 3: Build Endurance
Introduce hills or stairs, and try walking two days in a row to simulate back-to-back walking days.
Weeks 4–5: Endurance + Elevation
Increase your weekly distance. Practice longer weekend walks on back-to-back days and fine-tune your hydration and fuelling habits.
Week 6: Simulation Week
Try walking three consecutive days — just like you will on the trail. Mimic your expected routine: early starts, mid-day breaks, and evening stretches.
Week 7: Final Conditioning
Stay consistent, stay confident. Keep your pack weight the same and stick with gear you know and trust.
Week 8: Taper + Recovery
Reduce distance. Prioritize rest, hydration, stretching — and start getting excited. You’re ready.
Download the full 8-Week Walking Schedule PDF here
Over the coming weeks, I’ll be sharing helpful posts and tools on:
- What you really need to bring (and what to leave behind)
- Foot care, recovery, and injury prevention
- Travel logistics and mental prep for the trail
- And of course — how to get your body ready with a simple training plan
If there’s something you’d like us to cover, just let me know. I’d love to hear from you. This is just the beginning of something special. We’ll be checking in along the way with more support, more tips, and more motivation.
See you on the trail,
Uli
Head Trainer, Forever Active