Northern Ireland Outdoors Forum - Hiking, camping and more

Outdoor Activities => Exercise, Fitness, Training, Competitions and General Health => Topic started by: Neanderphil on February 20, 2013

Title: Is a child fit enough
Post by: Neanderphil on February 20, 2013

So this may sound like planned child abuse but I'm planning a walk from Belfast to Sligo sometime this summer. My 9yr old son got wind of this and as if he could join me (seems only natural he has been my walking buddy for past 5 yrs).

 I don't know if I'll let him (let alone if his ma would let me) but it has got me thinking apart from any anti social aspect or busy roads could a modern x-box generation child walk the 120 miles (aprox) in 5-7 days

Title: Re: Is a child fit enough
Post by: Are we there yet? on February 21, 2013

I would seriously encourage it! Im really impressed! If my 9yr old suggested walking round the lake with me i think id die from shock! lol  If he's been your walking buddy he must be well used to it. Check it out with a professional, but enthusiasm is half the battle :)

Title: Re: Is a child fit enough
Post by: whoRya on February 21, 2013

Line up a good support crew and go for it.

Title: Re: Is a child fit enough
Post by: mregan on February 21, 2013

I would say your son could do it and probably recover from it quicker than you.

Child abuse?? I think not. Read a bit about Killian Jornet or watch the films. He was walking crazy distances on steep mountains from he was just walking. More children should be in the outdoors instead of on computers.

I think it's brilliant that he wants to join you. If you are worried then as said above a good support crew as back up.

Title: Re: Is a child fit enough
Post by: Neanderphil on February 21, 2013

The idea is to do it  unaided, I'm hoping to do the camino next year and want to give myself a taste of it.  But I suppose your right it should be encouraged (at least until he realises that the tv and FIFA aren't coming along). If he is still showing an interest in a month or two I'll contact a child physio see what they say and god forbid anything did go wrong I'll never be more than a phone call away from support.
 Thanks guys

Title: Re: Is a child fit enough
Post by: Mourneman on February 22, 2013

Like everyone else I think it's great idea,but you could give him an opted out point where if he wanted to go home he could,maybe Newry?That way he go home with his mother & you can continue on to Sligo.top idea by the way,karma.

Title: Re: Is a child fit enough
Post by: Are we there yet? on February 27, 2013

If you are planning the Camino... this might be of interest to you to wet your taste buds :)

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=430600443684355&set=a.142259579185111.36197.130563927021343&type=1&theater