Since managing a lengthy walk in one session, 40 miles around Cannock Chase, I have always wanted to do a large circular again. I attempted the Surrey Greensand Monster (18 miles) but failed three times – I was overweight and out of practice. Although my weight is reasonable, I have aged a decade since the Cannock Chase and I have another challenge to overcome.
At the time of writing, I am recovering from major abdominal surgery (a laparotomy) and this takes time. I need to reduce the risk of incisional hernia mainly but also rebuild strength. I like to have a target to do this and as a keen hill walker/rambler then a realistic target for me will be 30 mile circular route around my home town of Chesterfield.
I will have to build up my strength so gradually and also the weight I am able to pack. Fortunately I tend to wear backpacks that support weight through the hips. Nevertheless, every personal trainer, pilates or yoga instructor talks about the importance of core muscles and unfortunately those are the very muscles that were sliced away during my operation. I will start with some one mile walks and build up to this monster, which I aim to complete by September. I think it’s best I avoid hillwalking this year sadly but this circular should be relatively flat.
A map of the route from the GPX is below (courtesy of the Chesterfield & NE Derbyshire Ramblers). I am always happy to be accompanied by people with an interest in the outdoors and rambling so if this route appeals, feel free to get in touch.