Am I TOO OLD to start Backpacking?

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  • čas přidán 26. 06. 2024
  • In this video I'm on a lunchtime stroll around Swinley Forest to discuss my plans to walk the West Highland Way in 2025 despite what seems like too many obstacles such as weight (middle age spread), my advancing age and poor fitness levels.
    Its almost like making a contract with myself to actually do what I say to lose the weight, get fit and do the trail in 2025 but also its a reboot of my channel which has been inactive for too long.
    Filmed on GoPro Hero 8. Rendered on Kdenlive
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Komentáře • 113

  • @suegillett2173
    @suegillett2173 Před 5 dny +13

    Never too old. I'm 70, just spent 2 weeks in the Lake District and am now planning to start backpacking. Start small and work up to bigger things..

  • @pw6582
    @pw6582 Před 3 dny +11

    I am 71 lost eight stone and had rheumatoid arthritis walked the West Highland Way last year carrying full packs.
    I took the advice from my consultant to lose weight and it’s the best advice he ever gave me, stopped taking my rheumatoid arthritis medication he signed me off now I would advise walk everyday building the miles everyday towards a goal of walking the West Highland Way.
    Good luck keep walking it’s the best exercise as you get older.

    • @Mat-kr1nf
      @Mat-kr1nf Před 7 hodinami +1

      You’ve just given me hope!😁I’ve just started with arthritis in my hips, age 59, and been getting depressed thinking my wild camping days (actually, I call it camping, never have camped on camp sites, ever) were over. I do need to lose some weight and get more exercise- I’m carrying 25kg of surplus fat, which could be 25kg of gear!🤔

    • @pw6582
      @pw6582 Před 7 hodinami +1

      @@Mat-kr1nf I can only tell you my experience I also had a knee replacement but I found the early days losing weight getting on the scales before breakfast and afternoon tea was a confidence boost.
      Cycling and walking great exercise just get a target to complete everyday.
      The arthritis, losing weight was the game changer and I’m 72 and walk at least 10 miles a day.
      Good luck don’t give up you’ll get there.

    • @Mat-kr1nf
      @Mat-kr1nf Před 7 hodinami

      @@pw6582Thanks, I find cycling is good, I enjoy it more than walking- always have, plus, it’s my only transport: also use a trailer on it for larger loads. I am getting the weight down slowly, it does make you feel better about yourself. 😁I had a difficult last 8 years or so, I was caring for my mother in her last years which, of course, I would do again if I had to, but not living in my own home, then the Covid thing sort of got to me, stopped getting exercise and vegetated somewhat, but getting back on track now. I’ve been working up to going on an overnight camp, which is actually quite difficult, motivation wise- not been on one for quite a while before my mother passed. But anyway, that’s enough of that. Looking forward to engaging with the great outdoors again, once I get it there, it’ll be downhill coasting all the way. 😁

  • @Oldie-onhisfoldie
    @Oldie-onhisfoldie Před 3 dny +3

    Go for it Alan ,I started walking and cycling in my sixties after a stroke and having suffered 3 heart attack s, 70 now don't do big distances but love either bike packing overnight or hike. Im sure you wilmake it ,Great plan.
    Happy walking.

  • @michaelchrisman4179
    @michaelchrisman4179 Před dnem +1

    You can totally do this. My advice, definitely work on your weight loss and then begin researching ultralight gear. It's crazy expensive sometimes, but once you get older like I am carrying crazy amounts of things on your back become an issue. Think minimalist. Bring only the absolute necessities. There are many CZcamsrs who do ultralight backpacking that you could watch to give you ideas.

  • @thewanderingforester
    @thewanderingforester Před 3 dny +2

    Definitely not too old. I'm 71, finished the Cumbria Way in May and just spent a week bagging Wainwrights in the Lake District. When i retired 6 years ago there was no way I could have done either. It's down to having a sensible plan and then willpower to follow it through. It sounds like you have both - so best of luck on your journey.

  • @WalkerWanderung
    @WalkerWanderung Před 3 dny +5

    I like your plan, Alan. I'm in a similar situation wanting to get fitter and walk and hike more. I'm cheering you on. Subscribed.

  • @jeffprice2210
    @jeffprice2210 Před 4 dny +7

    Good luck with your plan
    I’m 62 and going to do the Cumbria way
    Your exercise routine is very important and diet too
    Like many comments do it in your own time, there is no rush and thoroughly enjoy
    You will definitely achieve your goal
    Regards

  • @caseyellie
    @caseyellie Před 4 dny +2

    I'm hiking the GR7 in France , Every year I do a long distance hike at 66.. I take my meds with me ! 😂 Go for it !

  • @stewarthollingsworth200

    Hi Alan good luck never say never 🏃‍♂️⛺️just completed the South West Coastal Path in under 8 weeks 632 miles very brutal in North Cornwall ,,but something you could only dream of at our age ,,16 kilos on my back did it on my own and so glad I achieved it ,,and I am 70 years of age,,also doing the South Down way ,,soon Winchester to Eastbourne 100 miles so good luck Stewart Devizes Wiltshire 👍🏃‍♂️

    • @alanprioroutdoors
      @alanprioroutdoors  Před dnem

      Wow that is really good going. I've done short sections of the Pembrokeshire coastal path and that is brutal with all the ups and downs and I'd imagine the South West path is pretty similar

  • @georgeblackley6028
    @georgeblackley6028 Před 2 dny +1

    I'm 71 and still backpacking here in Scotland. It's often easier than you think. Give it a go.

  • @cawalkabout
    @cawalkabout Před 3 dny +3

    Start small. While I am only 37, I have had 3 spinal surgeries. I have terrible degenerative disc disease. I still get out. Just have to make sure to listen to your body and don't push it too far. You got this!!!

  • @bobv7753
    @bobv7753 Před dnem

    You have a good plan & attitude Alan! Stay the course & reach your goals. Great physical & mental benefits will be gained. Train & do what works for you. Beat wishes!

  • @davidwood6045
    @davidwood6045 Před 4 hodinami

    Alan, your starting in the right frame of mind, I am 71 and get our regular in the fells of North Yorks and York dales
    Used to walk all the highest moutains in the UK, now I stick to around 2000ft but cover 12 / 15 mikes in a day
    You can do it

  • @TheFairway8
    @TheFairway8 Před 13 minutami

    I’m 59 very overweight too. I only started to hike in October after visiting the beautiful Lake District. I went there with my wife and dog with basic equipment. I came back home to Kent bought better gear decent boots backpack etc and now hike every week usually around the North Downs always with my dog and very occasionally the wife. I usually only hike about 5 to 8 miles sometimes a little bit more.
    To me the next logical step was to start wild camping which I love did absolutely loads of research bought some excellent gear and now as well as hiking I do a bit of camping too of course with my wonderful dog.
    My initial goal is to do The Surrey Three Hills Challenge about 23 miles in one stint I’m still quite a way off that unless I choose to wild camp somewhere to break it up.
    The thing with living where I do near The North Downs is there are many long distance trails but not so many places to easily wild camp on these.
    Good luck with your endeavours.
    Regarding high blood pressure have you ever drank beetroot juice it’s been proven to reduce blood pressure quite significantly I drink it quite regularly my BP is slightly raised around 145 to 132 over about 85. At the surgery it’s usually a bit higher white coat syndrome I guess they call it. They keep wanting me to go on medication but I refuse as to me it’s not that high plus I would rather maintain it through exercise and natural foods banana, beetroot etc, unless it starts to get really high.
    The North Downs has some pretty impressive hills as a training ground

  • @garysmith7286
    @garysmith7286 Před dnem

    Good luck mate. It's great to have a goal to aim for. Start with small achievable targets and build up. Plan well and make it part of your life. Looking forward to watching your journey.

  • @BillJohnstonRambler
    @BillJohnstonRambler Před 2 dny +2

    Your never to old to walk the West Highland Way I've walked the west Highland way and the Great Glen Way in my 70's with medical issues the secret of success is to do it at a pace your comfortable with after all your doing it for enjoyment.... So enjoy 👍

  • @AndyFisher1965
    @AndyFisher1965 Před 4 dny +3

    Good luck, I’m 60 next year and am planning to do the Cumbrian way so lm building up to it now and also need to loose some weight.

  • @dogdadoutdoors
    @dogdadoutdoors Před dnem

    As a 50-year-old who is also 'gravitationally challenged' absolutely not, never too old to start, you just have to understand where you are starting from (which you clearly do) and work from there. I managed to lose 4.5 stone a few years back, put most of it back on over lock-down but I'm still out walking regularly. When you start building up your training a great tip I can give you is try and follow a route along a trainline with frequent stops, that way if you get too tired you can jump on the train to get back! But start slow, build your base and work from there. The gains accelerate as you progress, 5% extra on top of 2.5km is only 125m, 5% on top of 10k is half a kilometer!
    I'm not a million miles from you by the sounds of it (I'm in Farnborough), who knows, might see you wandering around on your training walks!

  • @amywert8088
    @amywert8088 Před 4 minutami

    That looks lovely, with a nice wide trail. I live in Ohio, be 59 soon, never backpacked but wanted to hike the AT when I was in my 20s but I married and had four children instead! Now I'm thinking if I'm going to go I best get going.

  • @rogersinclair2772
    @rogersinclair2772 Před 3 dny +1

    You are definitely not too old. I started long distance walking at age 50 using the National Trails. I started with Offa's Dyke. For what it's worth, after nearly 30 years experience, I offer the following advice which may or may not be helpful to you.
    1) Load carrying. No shame in using baggage transfer. Otherwise, do a couple of days shake down trip with your full kit. When you return separate your kit into 3 piles. Stuff you never used, stuff that was nice to have but not essential, and the must have stuff you used all the time. Discard the first two piles but then add in your safety gear, whether you used it or not, (bad weather clothing, navigation items, survival kit, first aid, water). Try to keep your pack as light as possible; sub 30 lbs.
    2) Foot care. Good fitting boots are the must have. My first trip I wore 20 year old leather boots. Within 3 days my feet were raw and bleeding. Luckily I was walking with a friend who is a GP. He advised me to give up but knew that I would refuse to quit. He kept my feet properly dressed and got me through. The lesson; buy the very best boots you can afford, preferably something like Altberg which has a range of width fittings, and get a fitting consultation. I always tape the vulnerable areas of my feet with micropore tape and use talcum powder to keep my feet dry. At the first sign of friction apply a Compeed dressing.
    3) Walking poles. I used to sneer at these as being fashion items but soon learnt the value of protecting my knees, particularly on the downhill sections of a rough path. The balance they provide will help to prevent wrenching or twisting of your knees and ankles. I have seen young men give up a trek due to knee pain.
    4) Ambition. Forget about how fast you walk. Take your time, walk at whatever pace is comfortable for you. Admire the scenery. Stop and chat to the people you meet along the way. If I pass a pub that is open I pop in for a pint. If you avoid obsessing over distance, speed and time, you will be nicely surprised at how far you have travelled without even thinking about it. Remember, you have all day to get to your next stop. Pace yourself. Tortoise v hare. It is supposed to be a pleasure not a bloody assault course. If you are not out there to soak up the environment you might as well be doing circuits of the local park.
    I think all the above is important to you given your weight issues and other medical conditions. Comfort is the key. You can do it slow and careful. Keep your dream in the fore front of your mind and believe. You already have the conviction to be walking and cycling in spite of your issues. A lot of of 20 stone guys would be content to sit on a mobility scooter. Not you, you have determination. Best of luck to you.

    • @alanprioroutdoors
      @alanprioroutdoors  Před 3 dny

      Thank you - very helpful advice. My current plan is carrying about 12kg on the walk but training with 14kg so that psychologically it'll feel lighter when doing the walk

  • @Max-lf4br
    @Max-lf4br Před 3 dny

    you've got this mate, looking forward to the developments!

  • @caz-nbgalatea1528
    @caz-nbgalatea1528 Před 3 dny +2

    What a true inspiration you are….. go for it…. I’m 59… overweight, advance arthritis in knees and at the moment have Achilles tendonitis so feeling pretty sorry for myself but after watching your short vlog, I’m hoping I can join you on the ‘get fit loose weight’ party cos I need to do something too! Keeping all crossed you’ll reach your goal and me to!🙏

  • @lenepedersen5506
    @lenepedersen5506 Před 4 dny +3

    You can do it because you start slow. That's the way to do it. About 28 years ago my weight was 156kg + several health issues and I also began with 1,5km . It was so hard. As time went by I could walk longer and then I began training on stairs as I lived in a flat landscape. I slowly put more and more in my backpack and suddenly I could go for long walks. The trick is not to give up if you have some days you don't walk, you'll get back on track again. I wish you all the best on your journey 👣

  • @muskadobbit
    @muskadobbit Před 3 dny +1

    Go for it. I started running at age 60 and last year ran Boston Marathon after having qualified for it four times.
    Each achievement gives you the motivation to go for the next goal.
    And yes, I’ll subscribe. Let us know how you get on. We’re out here cheering for you.

  • @BrokenBackMountains
    @BrokenBackMountains Před 4 dny +2

    Never too old or too late to get fit. You have a goal and a plan so that is the best way to do it.
    I'm 58, on blood thinners and recovering from quite a few fractures. I've totally lost my fitness and gone up to 95 kilos. I get out of breathe walking 500 metres and can't move my neck or right wrist due to breaking them.
    I intend doing a long distance walk in Scotland at the same time as you if I can. Probably one of my own point to point.
    Best thing is that the WHW can be done over 10 days rather than rushing it and if you feel the pressure there are companies that will take your pack though I feel you, rightly, want to do it all yourself.
    So, best of luck. I've subscribed so will follow your journey. Listening to you I reckon you will reach your goal.
    ATB
    Ewen

  • @LoneWolfExplorer
    @LoneWolfExplorer Před 4 dny +2

    You got this! With determination & action you can pretty much achieve anything you desire. I also understand how you feel right now, I myself am struggling with declining fitness levels. I had trained hard bodybuilding, powerlifting, martial arts etc since 15 yrs of age right up until they closed the gyms in lockdown. I tried staying in shape at home but it just wasn't the same & now I'm in the worst shape of my life at 48. I'm finding it so hard to motivate myself to get back in shape as it has affected my physical & mental health, never before have I felt like this. I also want to start backpacking but like you I don't feel up to it but I'm going to get back in shape & give it a go!

    • @alanprioroutdoors
      @alanprioroutdoors  Před 3 dny +1

      I'd started with a local Crossfit gym last year but in a checkup with my doctor he'd said that on no account at my weight should I be attempting dead lifts as I would stand a high risk of a hernia. Had to pack that in but I least I can walk and cycle :)

    • @LoneWolfExplorer
      @LoneWolfExplorer Před 3 dny +2

      @@alanprioroutdoors Well you might want to talk to a different Dr as he should have just told you to take it easy and build up strength and fitness levels, not quit the gym. It’s a known fact that resistance training has the best results in health and longevity and lots more drs these days are realising this and encouraging people to get into the gym. Not heavy deadlifts to start with though as that could give you a hernia, but light weights & resistance machines is a good place to start 👍

  • @mark.a.cornish
    @mark.a.cornish Před 2 dny

    Good for you. Am doing much the same thing, documenting my weight loss to get fitter and get out hiking and bikepacking again. A a bit older than you, but not quite as much weight to loose, subbed and will follow your journey to keep me motivated. 👍

  • @philn1957
    @philn1957 Před 4 dny +2

    Good for you, hope your journey goes well and you achieve your goal. I'm 70 in 2 months and still get out and about as I do landscape photography in the uk and Europe, I'm slightly less heavy but I then stick a camera backpack on with 12kg of gear 😓

  • @misterpontypine
    @misterpontypine Před 4 dny +3

    I’m 58, prediabetic, loads of meds, but trained like you and completed Hadrians Wall path as a sea to sea all the way to Tynemouth. I trained same way you’re planning. Only piece of advice is to make sure you enjoy it- don’t do it in a way or at a pace that makes it a chore. I think what you are doing is courageous and inspired, so keep those vids coming 👍

    • @strickostricko
      @strickostricko Před 4 dny

      Hadrian’s Wall is child’s play compared to the West Highland Way!

    • @alanprioroutdoors
      @alanprioroutdoors  Před 2 dny

      Thank you for your support. I did look at quite a lot of the English long distance trails including Hadrians Way but still have an anxiety about wild camping. In Scotland though with their freedom to roam laws it takes all the stress out of pitching a tent for the night :)

    • @misterpontypine
      @misterpontypine Před 2 dny

      You’re welcome, it’ll be a pleasure to see how things work out for your intention. It sounds like you are following your instincts and taking whichever route you feel comfortable with. That makes good sense and is what I did, so our ‘how’ might differ but the ‘why’ is very similar. I like the “good, better, best” approach ie any effort or plan is good, then doing it and learning from it is better, and so on. Good luck and keep us posted 🙏

  • @waxman4207
    @waxman4207 Před 4 dny +2

    Impressed with your conviction. Go for it. Build up slowly. I did the WHW about 6 years ago and now have completed it 3 times.
    The first time my pack weight approx 15kg/33lbs. I did a lot of research and next April i plan on doing it for the 4th time but my pack will weigh approx 7kg/15lbs thats including a chair. I'll be 71 next year. My advice is always.....
    The more weight you carry, the more you will enjoy your camping, the less weigh the more you will enjoy your walking. The WHW is 97 mile Walk. Ill be following you, any advice, just ask. Good luck.

  • @paulfairclough9350
    @paulfairclough9350 Před 4 dny +1

    You’re never too old to have fun. It sounds as though you’ve got a good plan in place by starting small and building up. Good luck and hope you enjoy the journey 😊😊

  • @MrQuintonia
    @MrQuintonia Před 19 hodinami

    Well done on having such a great plan, I too have started a very similar plan at 66 planing a wild camp, but have also thought of an adventure like yours.. Sounds that we both live in the south as well as I share the same problems.. So far I have lost 20lbs and still very motivated... Good luck..

  • @Lands_Solo
    @Lands_Solo Před 5 dny +2

    Hi Alan, you're definitely not too old to start, I'm 59 and have the Coast to Coast and Cape Wrath trails planned in the next year. I shall be carrying around 18kg on the C2C and probably 20kg on the CW. Just ease into it gradually as you have suggested, and cut out the carbs and refined sugar and the weight will fall away. Personally in your shoes I would build up walking distance with very little weight at first, maybe water and waterproofs (essentials). You will also need to toughen your feet and strengthen your joints. I can highly recommend getting a couple of kettle bells and working out at home if you can, short 15 minute sessions can work well very quickly and there are tons of routines to be found on you tube, from beginners to advanced. You only need a relatively small space to workout and in my experience training like this shifts weight very effectively. I applaud you for standing up and taking responsibility for you weight/health and trying to do something about it. I shall follow you to encourage and offer any advice I can give.

  • @tomwheeler7816
    @tomwheeler7816 Před 4 dny +2

    i have a few lung problem and arthritis in my lower back and at 64 15st i did the most of the great glen way had to do it to attempts but walking slow and doing no more than 10k a day im doing ok west highland way being done the same way ,train using your pack and walk footpaths or round town , good luck have fun and take your time you will love it even more . ho and im 66 now and still going and love it

  • @greeno6064
    @greeno6064 Před 2 dny

    Cheers Alan, hope you enjoy

  • @lorrainesimpson9482
    @lorrainesimpson9482 Před 4 dny +1

    Never too old. I'm also doing the west highland way next may, I'll be 61 and decided to get the baggage transfer service to carry my rucksack as do many others doing the way. Luckily, I dont have any health problems, so will start walking everyday and get a few Munros in before then. I live in Scotland so not too far from the hills. Just take your time and build up the miles over the months ahead, best of luck!

    • @alanprioroutdoors
      @alanprioroutdoors  Před 3 dny

      You're very lucky - I wish I could live in Scotland again. Back in the 90's I was working in Carlisle but living across the border (just) in Gretna.

  • @BayouPete
    @BayouPete Před dnem

    Just that you were thinking about it, you can do it. I’m 67 years old and get my mileage in every day, but you have to be able to stay in your own wheelhouse everyone’s different. It’ll be fun to follow your journey. I hike and camp but walk instead of Run to save my knees. God bless 🎒Also subscribed

  • @stevenharris7788
    @stevenharris7788 Před 2 dny

    I wish you well hope you succeed and enjoy the highland way

  • @YPJohn
    @YPJohn Před 3 dny

    I'll follow your progress with interest. Good luck.

  • @Dutcharmytent
    @Dutcharmytent Před dnem

    Have subscribed, I am recently retired, 68 and I am doing a similar health plan to what you describe, I lost 8lb in the first few weeks.
    I do not eat bread any more and I completely cut off sugar 10 years ago. I plan to go bike packing and
    Let the bike take the weight of the gear when fully fit. I am now under 12 stone and walk on average two miles a day.
    Really enjoyed your video.

    • @alanprioroutdoors
      @alanprioroutdoors  Před dnem +1

      Thank you - you've actually given me some ideas for the next video :)

    • @Dutcharmytent
      @Dutcharmytent Před dnem

      @@alanprioroutdoors That’s extremely interesting.

  • @nedders8615
    @nedders8615 Před 5 dny +1

    I’m also local to Swinley, when i was training for a load bearing endurance event i used to do hill reps up the main drag to the reservoir, Swinley is surprisingly good for prepping you for bigger hills, i wish you all the best with your goals 👍

  • @macinthewild8116
    @macinthewild8116 Před 2 dny

    Best of luck on your journey 👍

  • @Brian_Chambers
    @Brian_Chambers Před 3 dny

    Good luck with your journey Alan, I wish you all the best in your adventures. All the best, Brian.

  • @homeiswhereyoupitchit.

    Good for you Alan. You've got my support all day long. Stick to it but, know your limits.

  • @tonywozere909
    @tonywozere909 Před 4 dny

    Good on you Alan. I used the keto diet-low carbs and intermittent fasting, and got a cheap rowing machine from Argos-opti magnetic to control my weight to take up hiking. Tried backpacking, tip obvs don't carry too much! Enjoy the outdoors

  • @welshbritishpatriot
    @welshbritishpatriot Před 4 dny +1

    I am with you brother, I'am 57 blue-collar worker since 15, hip is shot, so I am down to have a new hip after 2 1/2 years wait and being on high dose of tramadol and morphine for the pain just to get me through the working day as self employed, up and at it my friend

  • @woodchip2782
    @woodchip2782 Před 4 dny

    Will power, that’s what you need.😊 When you put your brain to it, it’s easy but will power is what you need. Keep to it. I’ve lost thirty kilos forty years ago and I only gained five back. At our age we must followed by medical personnel.

    • @alanprioroutdoors
      @alanprioroutdoors  Před 3 dny

      Laughed at the followed by medical personnel comment - I know what you mean though. It seems like I've got to the age now that they want to poke and prod me every year just to make sure I'm following medical advice :)

  • @earlebacciochi9796
    @earlebacciochi9796 Před 4 dny +1

    Sounds like a great plan, im sure you'll achieve your goals with such a positive attitude 👍.Try not to lose weight to fast. Maybe a change of diet ( imagine no shops or processed food what would you eat , only the things you could pick, harvest, catch or kill ) and use that as a base for majority of your food choices. ❤

  • @kevinball4410
    @kevinball4410 Před 2 dny +1

    Bollocks you're to old ,iam 64 had a stroke in 22,a heart attack last year along with a triple heart bypass, just finished finished the Dalesway.
    I walk and cycle quite abit i also did the Cumbria way and the Dales Highway a few months after my stroke.
    You have got the plans in place no need to rush iam sure you will get to do the West Highland way.

  • @kurtsteiner8384
    @kurtsteiner8384 Před 2 dny

    Its a start well done i wish you well, . And just build on the distance slowly.
    There is always the nort and south downs way. They are not that easy .

  • @stephenpooler9072
    @stephenpooler9072 Před 4 dny

    Go for it Alan , all the best, and for what is worth "embrace the weather"

  • @happycamper90596
    @happycamper90596 Před 4 dny

    I'm 56 ,started 3 months ago walking and dieting like you. Was 20.5 stone now 18.5 , take it slow but dont give up and keep going Alan , you can do it :) My goal is the same as yours to walk the west highland way next year. All the Best

  • @richythin
    @richythin Před 2 dny

    Good luck 👍

  • @Fishy1764
    @Fishy1764 Před 4 dny +2

    127kg Alan. Im 60 mate and i go hiking regularly So go for it mate.

  • @mow-zr6ni
    @mow-zr6ni Před 4 dny +2

    You could start in a small way by doing a long distance trail by using a bag carriage service. West Highland Way has those.

    • @kennethredpath3451
      @kennethredpath3451 Před 4 dny

      I would agree with this option, there is a service which costs £70 for seven days

  • @user-qh8tb1xi9g
    @user-qh8tb1xi9g Před 3 dny

    Similar position to yourself. Rapidly approaching 69 and haven't done any serious backpacking for 30 years. I too need to lose a couple or three stones. Had loads of old gear in the garage so I've cleaned that up and have only had to buy a few bits. In terms of carrying loads and climbing hills I can thoroughly recommend the Chiltern Hills to west of High Wycombe. Miles of footpaths, some with very steep gradients, a few campsites too and not a million miles from the area you are walking at the moment. Go for it!!

    • @alanprioroutdoors
      @alanprioroutdoors  Před 3 dny

      That's a really good suggestion. When they're not on strike, I often use the trains to get my bike to the National Cycle Network and could easily do that to get to the Chilterns. I was also thinking about sections of the Ridgeway as possibles for my training walks :)

  • @raymondmckee2927
    @raymondmckee2927 Před 4 dny +1

    I am 74 and doing it in august, you can use a bag transfer for you walking

  • @Iceni_Paul
    @Iceni_Paul Před 5 dny

    Never too old mate, start off with short hikes and build your way up each time, best of luck with it all. 👍

  • @antmerritt
    @antmerritt Před 3 dny

    Yes

  • @-AHa-
    @-AHa- Před 4 dny

    You're making a great start!
    I'm at the stage where I can now comfortably walk good distances but I'm rather scared of the weight bearing part so I've only done day hikes so far and just used a bumbag to carry lunch and water bottles. My next goal is to carry a smallish backpack and work up from there.
    Good luck! I look forward to seeing how you do and I laughed when you said you weren't going to ask us to subscribe so I think I will just for that lol

    • @alanprioroutdoors
      @alanprioroutdoors  Před 3 dny +1

      Like a lot of content creators I'm quite happy talking to camera but not when there's other people around and I get really embarrassed. I've noticed a lot of people also say the stock phrase of "Don't forget to smash that like and subscribe button" and I know them and know they'd never say that in real life - it just sounds so false but so many of them are looking to build up the subscribers so they can monetize their channel. For me its a hobby and if I can help a few people along the way then that's what gives me pleasure :)
      In terms of backpacks there's an unwritten rule that you generally seem to fill the size of the rucksack so I have a 30L rucksack for day hikes but it only carries water, sandwiches and maybe a waterproof jacket but its never full to the brim with stuff.

  • @littlechris5656
    @littlechris5656 Před 3 dny

    you are awesome 👍

  • @AB-qp6yj
    @AB-qp6yj Před 4 dny +1

    Dont let Age define your life. You may be too unfit at the moment to start backpacking. But if you desire you can get fit enough.

  • @gordonmculloch4904
    @gordonmculloch4904 Před dnem

    Look into the keto diet and lightweight backpacking. Wish you luck. 👍

  • @cymraesfalch
    @cymraesfalch Před 3 dny

    I am dreaming too. Between 65-70, 12 month old new hip, two years+ long covid, dawdling with aging dog, overweight .. and you can see how this dream needs to become a plan ! You are not alone ! As th wight carrying..my plan is to get my 1 and 2 litre platypus blottles ... fill with water according to target weight, carry for target distabce, enoty out and walk on for rest of walking target distance. Total weight of emptied bottles = ounces. Extend the water=weight carrying distance as nreded. Refull in streams as needed if up for a bit of challenge further on same walk. Simples ! Well, I hope it is, or my dream-plan is rocky ! Good luck

  • @davidtarsey1665
    @davidtarsey1665 Před 2 dny

    You don’t have to yomp very far. Forget distance and just enjoy a backpack close and Bivvy up local. 👍

  • @peterneumann7145
    @peterneumann7145 Před dnem

    If you want to do it you will . Never ever dnf. Which means did not finish 8n cycling terms. Done some great things in my life , still do. 73 and kicking.

  • @johnward-128
    @johnward-128 Před 2 dny

    Hi Alan I’m 70 and just realise your limitations for instance my days are about 10 hrs carry 12kgs maximum and I think most importantly where you are going to finish each day good luck

  • @greeno6064
    @greeno6064 Před 3 dny

    Hi Alan, 1st of all no, your not too old to start backpacking. I started when I was 60 years old and now at 64 years old I have done the west highland way every year for the last 4 years. (check out my videos) 2nd, yes, I will be honest, you need to lose a few stones. But the good news is that every year I do a 1 month diet before I go to Scotland that is guaranteed to lose me 1.5 stones in 4 weeks without ever feeling hungry. The keto diet allows you to eat plenty of food and not go hungry just cutting out carbs. It's not ideal NG term but great to drop a stone or 2 in a short period of time. I love the WHW and can't wait to get out there again in August

  • @k.whiking4372
    @k.whiking4372 Před 4 dny

    No your never too old to start or restart backpacking. You never forget what you learnt decades before (in my case 40 plus years before). Start small and build up to a preset, realistic goal. Go for regular walks, with a day pack and build up to a good distance, most of all enjoy what your doing. Do forget to rehydrate properly. look after the legs and get them massaged before they start to hurt.

  • @oldhiker1789
    @oldhiker1789 Před 2 dny

    Good for you try Nordic walking use poles and you will get a full body work out with no strain on you . Watch the videos and learn the technique it is simple just like marching you will get speed up as the technique will push you along or join a local group you will find dNordic walking uk .Where you will find local groups but watching the video will help you. Good luck in your quest .

  • @i_DaveJ
    @i_DaveJ Před 21 hodinou

    Dunno how your vid came up on my feed, but hey ho. Firstly, go for it. Good on ya! One recommendation - research the carnivore diet. That’ll resolve your weight and health goals.

  • @steveoutdoors6522
    @steveoutdoors6522 Před 3 dny

    Am 68 and go out all the time

  • @hikingwiththeshackletons

    I admire your determination and dedication. I have every faith in you. As you said, start small and build gradually. Reference weight carrying, I did a film on lightweight wild camping, maybe check that out. I have subbed to your channel as I’m really interested in how you will get on and you have my full support. 😊

  • @beaulieuc8910
    @beaulieuc8910 Před 4 dny

    I used to be size 10 /12 and used to do marathons and cycled to Paris, now 14 stone and with high blood pressure. I don't have a car and enjoy walking. I would only do long journeys now providing that I have breaks ie 2 hours at a time. when you are heavy it is very difficult. It helps with some walking poles. we are not young anymore and we can just do what we can. I do suffer a lot with heatstroke so I cannot walk in heat. I would prefer flat ground. I enjoy walking but my long walking days are over

    • @alanprioroutdoors
      @alanprioroutdoors  Před 3 dny

      Yeah, I know what you mean. I can't walk in heat either. At least in winter you can layer up but in summer you can only take so many layers off.

  • @robertdesrosiers4743

    60 yr old disabled 600 miles on the a.t. in the usa you can do it

  • @beaulieuc8910
    @beaulieuc8910 Před 4 dny

    i would definately speak to your doctor to discuss a plan

    • @alanprioroutdoors
      @alanprioroutdoors  Před 3 dny

      I've been using a dietician to sort me out - It'll be in a future video once I figure out how to record stuff off a computer screen LOL

    • @i_DaveJ
      @i_DaveJ Před 21 hodinou

      ⁠@@alanprioroutdoors”dieticians” know what they have been taught. Take a look at what Bart Kay, Ken Berry, Anthony Chaffee have to say. Good luck

  • @MUSIC4TRUTH....
    @MUSIC4TRUTH.... Před 3 dny +2

    If you think you're to old, you're to old.

    • @TheSuperTrickey
      @TheSuperTrickey Před 2 dny +1

      Until you're not. You can always prove yourself wrong through perseverance! You're definitely not too old. Old is just a number, and we can look after our bodies and achieve great things well into our twilight years

  • @strickostricko
    @strickostricko Před 4 dny

    Yes you are! 👴

  • @genghis26
    @genghis26 Před 3 dny

    You can do it, Alan. One thing I would suggest is, when you're walking walk a little quicker than you're used to. One mile walking up one gear means less walking to do. And remember that carrying around all that weight has made you strong. Use that strength to move forwards. Best of luck!

  • @FuelledByAdventure
    @FuelledByAdventure Před 5 dny

    Good luck Alan, just take it slowly and you’ll succeed. ⛰️👍🏻

    • @alanprioroutdoors
      @alanprioroutdoors  Před 5 dny +2

      I was watching Andy over at Backpacking UK doing the WHW in about 4 days but looking at the distances he was covering it was more akin to Royal Marines selection training. I'm looking at about 10 days to cover the distance :)