Train for the Camino, or any long walk
Back-to-back days, then the same days with your pack.
How long to train for a long walk
| Goal | From “not moving much” | From “I walk” | From “I run a little” | From “I run a lot” |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A long walk | 14 to 23 weeks | 12 to 19 weeks | 9 to 14 weeks | 9 to 14 weeks |
The way there
- Daily walk. 30 minutes every day.
- 10 km day. 10 km, with feet fine the next morning.
- 20 km day. 20 km in one day.
- Back to back. Two 20 km days in a row, then three.
- With the pack. The same days with the real pack.
You join at the rung you are on today. A rung is passed by doing it, not by the calendar.
Common questions
How do I train for the Camino de Santiago?
Training for the Camino means building to two or three 20 km days in a row, then repeating them with your full pack. It takes about 12 to 19 weeks if you already walk regularly.
How far do people walk each day on the Camino?
Most people walk 20 to 25 km a day on the Camino. The Camino Frances is about 780 km, which most walkers cover in 30 to 35 days.
How heavy should my backpack be?
A common rule for a long walk is a pack of about 10% of your body weight. Train with the real pack for the last few weeks, not an empty one.
How do I avoid blisters on a long walk?
Blisters on a long walk are best prevented in training: walk in the same shoes and socks you will use, and deal with any hot spot the moment you feel it.
Written and checked by the AskDoc Medical Team. How we review. Health education, not medical advice.