The Trials & Tribulations challenge is no easy feat, and it’s natural to wonder whether you need to be a runner to take part. But here’s some good news: it’s absolutely fine to walk the course if you don’t feel up to jogging or running!
Most sisters join the challenge for the experience, not the speed. So whether you’re a seasoned walker or just starting out, here’s a guide to making the most of the Trials & Tribulations challenge as a walker.
Why walking is perfectly acceptable
Trials & Tribulations is designed to challenge participants in many ways, from slippery mud pits to climbing walls, rather than focusing solely on running. Walking the route gives you time to enjoy the experience, take in the atmosphere, and build confidence as you tackle each obstacle at your own pace. There’s no need to worry about being the fastest – Trials & Tribulations is about testing your limits and supporting a good cause, whether that’s through walking, jogging, or running.
Tips for building stamina
If you’d like to try jogging or running parts of your challenge, there are ways to build up your stamina gradually. The key is to take small steps and celebrate each bit of progress.
Start with Couch-to-5K
The Couch to 5K (C25K) programme is an ideal starting point for beginners. It’s designed to help you build up your running stamina gradually over 9 weeks, moving from walking to short bursts of jogging and eventually running. You can easily find C25K apps or online guides to help you get started.
Practice interval training
Even if you don’t complete a full running programme, interval training can help you increase stamina. Try alternating between walking and short bursts of jogging during your regular walks – this will improve your endurance and get you more comfortable with jogging.
Focus on building leg strength
Strengthening your legs with exercises like squats, lunges, and calf raises can help you build endurance. Stronger legs make jogging or running easier on your body.
Keep hydrated and pace yourself
Especially when building stamina, hydration is essential. Start slowly, and don’t push yourself too hard – every step forward counts!
How to make the most of the challenge as a walker
If running or jogging doesn’t feel achievable, that’s perfectly fine. Walking the Trials & Tribulations challenge can still be a hugely rewarding experience, and there are plenty of ways to make the most of it:
Set a pace you’re comfortable with
Walking gives you the chance to take your time, enjoy the atmosphere, and focus on each obstacle as it comes. Find a pace that feels comfortable and allows you to savour the experience.
Challenge yourself with the obstacles
Trials & Tribulations isn’t about running; it’s about facing and overcoming obstacles. Walking gives you more energy to focus on these challenges, so give yourself time to push through the climbing walls, ditches, and other obstacles along the way.
Take photos and enjoy the experience
Walking allows you to truly immerse yourself in the event. Take photos, bond with fellow participants, and enjoy the moments of camaraderie. These are the things that make the challenge memorable.
Remember why you’re doing it
Trials & Tribulations has a charitable and symbolic purpose. Remind yourself of the cause or message that inspired you to sign up. Walking is still an incredible way to show your commitment and dedication, so take pride in every step.
Don’t feel bad about walking
Remember, Trials & Tribulations is your personal challenge, and how you choose to tackle it is entirely up to you. Walking the route doesn’t make the experience any less meaningful or rewarding.
What matters is the effort you put in and the journey you’ve taken to get there. By facing each obstacle at your own pace, you’re showing resilience, determination, and a willingness to go beyond your comfort zone.
Final thoughts
Whether you walk, jog, or run, completing the Trials & Tribulations challenge is an incredible achievement. Give yourself credit for every bit of effort and embrace the journey, no matter the pace. Walking the challenge can be as impactful and satisfying as running – so go out there, enjoy the experience, and make every step count.