While walking the Petworth Way recently, we came across a large group of pilgrims on their Jubilee Pilgrimage of Hope. Over 14 days their route would zigzag across Sussex, Surrey and Hampshire, from Horley to Farnham, back over to Midhurst, then down to the coast and along to Eastbourne. They were hardly spring chickens, and their overnight accommodation was far from luxurious — church hall floors rather than soft hotel beds. Yet day after day they were managing impressive distances.
So what was the pilgrims’ secret? A quick look at their website revealed that they were advised to follow a routine of simple daily stretches.
I’ll admit, despite all the walking I do, I’m not the best at remembering to warm up first. But on the occasions I do take a few minutes to stretch, my body always thanks me later. I suspect I’m not alone in this. So while it may not be the season for New Year’s resolutions, perhaps we can all take a leaf out of the pilgrims’ playbook and give our muscles a little more care this autumn.
Here is what they advise, but feel free to design….(& follow!) your own routine:
