Read the previous instalments here!
This is the third chapter of my Kilimanjaro Training Diaries – following me as I prepare to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro in October with Earth’s Edge! With the date fast approaching, I’m feeling incredibly grateful and optimistic about my journey so far, and for all of the experiences the past few weeks have brought.
My First Solo Hike
Recently, I went on my first solo hike, and this was a huge achievement for me! It was more than just a physical challenge; it gave me space to pause and reflect on what this adventure truly means to me. On a personal level, the last few years have been tough – marked by grief, a high-risk pregnancy, and a long recovery after the birth of my son. For nearly two years, consistent exercise wasn’t part of my life.
In that time, I lost both my fitness and confidence in what my body could do. So stepping back into the gym over the past few weeks has been a major step forward.
And then having the confidence to go on a hike alone while feeling strong doing it was life changing! I realise now this journey is about so much more than reaching the top of Kilimanjaro for me, it’s about connecting with myself again.
Back in the Gym – And Loving It!
I can now genuinely say I’m enjoying the gym – something I didn’t think I would! I actually look forward to my PT sessions, which I attend twice a week on Mondays and Fridays. We’ve structured them into one strength session and one cardio session each week.
- Mondays are for strength training, and they’re quickly becoming my favourite. I’ve recently discovered a few machines I’d never used before – like the hip thrust machine and the pendulum squat – and I was honestly so excited to try them out. I’m slowly building up my resistance, and it feels great to see progress each week.
- Fridays are a whole different beast, with cardio sessions that push me to my limits! I usually leave drenched in sweat, face bright red, and walking sideways down the stairs – but I’m always so proud of myself for making it through. They’re intense, but I’ve started to love that feeling of challenging my body and breaking through the mental barriers I once believed I had!
Between sessions, I’m also fitting in home workouts and making it to the gym whenever I can – it’s been such a rewarding shift in both mindset and routine.
Fuelling for the Climb
Nutrition has been a big focus for me this month. I really want to give myself the best possible chance to improve both my cardio and strength, so I’ve been making more mindful choices.
Some key changes:
- I’ve cut back on takeaways – just one this month, down from my usual weekly habit!
- I’ve increased my daily protein intake to 120g, focusing on lean meats, beans, eggs, and protein shakes to support my muscle recovery and strength gains.
- I’m not cutting carbs – far from it! I need energy to train hard and chase after a toddler!
Here’s what a typical day of eating looks like for me:
- 5–6am: Wake-up time (not by choice – I’m on a small human’s schedule!)
- 9am: Breakfast – Greek yogurt with granola, blueberries, honey, and a small spoon of peanut butter. So good!
- + Coffee – Absolutely essential to get the day started.
- 11am: Snack – usually a handful of nuts, a banana, or whatever I can grab quickly.
- 1pm: Lunch – typically a chicken breast with salad and either rice or pasta.
- 5pm: Dinner – it varies, but could be chicken curry, spaghetti Bolognese, or fish cakes.
- 7pm: Protein shake and a small bag of popcorn to finish the day.
As for water… I drink it whenever I remember! Working on that one too.
My Progress So Far
And the results speak for themselves! I have lost a total of 2.5 inches so far and gained muscle in my legs, arms and core – something that is benefitting my everyday life as well as preparing me to tackle Kilimanjaro!
For the next couple of weeks, I plan to put all my effort into training in the gym and I’ve also planned a hike with a good friend in the UK! Plus, the Earth’s Edge training weekend for Kilimanjaro is coming up near the end of this month and I’m really excited to join it and swap training tips and tricks with the rest of my group!
