Training for the Camino de Santiago: A Transformative Journey
The Camino de Santiago is more than just a walk; it’s a pilgrimage that transforms your body, mind, and spirit.
If you’re planning to embark on this journey with us, or on your own, you’ll want to be well-prepared. Here’s a comprehensive training plan to get you ready, starting from mid-June until your departure in late September.
Why Training Matters
The Camino welcomes people of all fitness levels, but preparation will help you enjoy the journey more and reduce the risk of injury. Training helps build your endurance, strength, and mental resilience, ensuring you’re r
eady for the daily physical demands of walking long distances.
One fantastic resource to aid your training is the Camino for Good app. Join here. This tool allows you to track your progress as if you were walking the Way of St. James itself. It’s a great motivator and an
excellent tool for learning more about the path you’re about to walk. As you train, you can see where you would be on the actual Camino each day, which helps build anticipation and excitement for your journey.
Mental and Spiritual Training
In addition to physical training, preparing your mind and spirit is essential for a fulfilling 
pilgrimage. Download one of Camino for Good’s pilgrim companion guides here. These guides help you develop a sense of pilgrimage spirituality and internal development, offering insights and reflections to deepen your journey.
12+ Week Physical Training Schedule
- Weeks 1-2:
- Walk 3-4 times a week, working your way up to 2-3 miles per walk.
- Optional Strength Training: 2 times a week focusing on legs, core, and lower back. Simple exercises like squats, lunges, and planks are great.
- Weeks 3-4:
- Walk: Increase to 4-5 times a week, with one walk of 4-5 miles.
- Strength Training: Continue twice a week. Incorporate balance exercises like standing on one leg.
- Weeks 5-6:
- Walk: 4-5 times a week. Aim for one longer walk of 6-8 miles.
- Strength Training: Maintain twice a week. Add more core-focused exercises like Russian twists and leg raises.
- Weeks 7-8:
- Walk: 5 times a week, with one walk of 8-10 miles.
- Cross Training: As your milage increases, once a week, try cycling or swimming to maintain cardiovascular fitness without the impact.
- Weeks 9-10:
- Walk: 5 times a week. Include one long walk of 10-12 miles and a few shorter walks of 4-6 miles.
- Strength Training: Twice a week. Focus on overall body strength with exercises like push-ups and deadlifts.
- Weeks 11- until one week to departure:
- Walk: 5-6 times a week. One long walk of 12-14 miles. Start walking on varied terrain to mimic the Camino’s pathways.
- Gear Check: Use this time to ensure your gear (shoes, backpack, walking poles) is comfortable and broken in.
- Final Week Before Departure:
- Walk: Light walks of 3-4 miles to keep your legs moving.
- Rest: Ensure you get plenty of rest and stay hydrated.
Key Tips for Your Training
- Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to signs of overtraining like persistent fatigue or pain.
- Hydration and Nutrition: Drink plenty of water and maintain a balanced diet to fuel your walks.
- Foot Care: Take care of your feet. Wear moisture-wicking socks and consider using blist
- er prevention products.
- Mental Preparation: The Camino is as much a mental challenge as it is physical. Practice mindfulness or meditation to build mental resilience.
The Journey Ahead
Walking the Camino de Santiago is a transformative experience. By preparing thoroughly, you’ll ensure that your body is ready for the physical demands, allowing you to focus on the spiritual and emotional aspects of the pilgrimage. Embrace the journey, and let every step bring you closer to Santiago—and to yourself. Buen Camino!
Camino 2024 Leon to Santiago de Compostela
Are you ready to embark on a journey that will transform your body, mind, and spirit?
Walk the historic Way of St. James from the vibrant city of León to the sacred Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela with us from September 25th to Oct. 10th, 2024. Covering 190 miles over two weeks, you’ll average 13.5 miles a day, or join for the last 62 miles from Sarria if you prefer a shorter trek.
This pilgrimage is open to people of all faiths—or no faith at all. It’s about the journey, the people, and the profound experiences along the way.
