I am not going to lie. I miss running. I miss the feeling of waking up, lacing up my shoes and with no destination in mind, closing the door on my house and my worries, and pounding the streets for a few or quite a few miles. I miss buying all my gadgets and running kit, the purchasing of which kept my dopamine levels constantly topped up. I also miss the excitement of signing up for events, my pre race rituals, and the smile on my face when I crossed every finish line, regardless of where I finished. And yes, part of me does miss my fifteen minutes of fame (it’s called 15 minutes for a reason). I’m in my fifties now, and my magazine featuring, advert starring, and campaign leading days are over. Unless you count what I have planned with One Sky Collective.
Most of all I miss the people. Those who supported Great Run Local, those I ran with, and those who became my friends. Embarrassment and insecurities about my weight, some unexpected life curveballs and then COVID all took their toll. Neverending, or never quite going away for good, knee pain also made the idea both physically and mentally impossible.
I sought out replacement sports. I dabbled with swimming (and still do occasionally) and took up mountain biking. That didn’t last long with my first official race resulting in almost two years out with shoulder injury and the eventual surgery. Now, cycling is mostly a means of travel, and mostly or rather wholly in the spring and summer months.
So I am back where it all started. Walking. But not just the commute to work or to the Big Bear bakery for the world’s best (so far) empire biscuit cake on those days I am working from home. At weekends, weather pending, we’ve been filling the tank and heading into the Highlands for some walking, drone flying, and in search of the world’s best empire biscuit. Oh, and I cannot forget the finding moments of tranquility and connection with nature (read my blog about connecting with nature) that I am growing to feel are essential for our well-being.
The Benefits of Hiking
Hiking in Scotland offers a myriad of benefits for both body and mind. Here are just a few:
- Physical Health: Hiking provides a full-body workout while being gentle on the joints, making it accessible to people of all fitness levels and abilities.
- Mental Well-being: Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, promoting overall mental well-being.
- Connection with Nature: Unlike running, which often focuses on speed (not in my case) and distance, hiking encourages slowing down and immersing oneself in the natural surroundings, fostering a deeper connection with the environment.
- Wherelse can you find such breathtakingly beautiful backdrops?
Scotland boasts a diverse range of trails, catering to hikers of all abilities. From leisurely strolls along coastal paths to challenging treks through rugged mountains, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Glen Coe, with its dramatic peaks and valleys, offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country, while the tranquil landscapes of Argyll and Bute provide a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
While you do need to appreciate the changeable and variable Scottish weather, you do not need special gear to get started. However, as you grow more adventurous, you might want to invest in some comfortable and reliable outdoor shoes. And as an adidas blogger, you might not be surprised that my go-to choices for off-road adventure are from the adidas Terrex range.
adidas Terrex: The Perfect Companion for Off-Road Adventures
The adidas Terrex Free Hiker combines style, comfort, and performance in one sleek package. Featuring a lightweight yet durable design, the Free Hiker shoes provide unparalleled support and stability on the trails. With their responsive Boost cushioning and grippy Continental™ outsoles, they effortlessly tackle everything from rocky paths to muddy slopes. These are ideal for anyone looking to speedily cross any terrain.
adidas Terrex AX4
For more technical terrain than the Free Hiker, the adidas Terrex AX4 delivers superior traction and protection. With its rugged construction and waterproof design, this shoe is built to withstand the rigours of the outdoors while keeping your feet dry and comfortable. These are my current favourites (and thank you adidas for the kind gift), and not just because I used my adidas adiclub level 4 membership to get them personalised with “ONESKY” on the ankles. I went a size up which has been good for my wide(ish) feet. Despite being heavier than the Free Hikers, they feel more sturdy which is ideal for the Scottish terrain and my clumsy feet.
With 50% of the upper made from recycled materials, these are also less impactful on the planet.
With plastic waste polluting more and more of our world, it’s vital that brands like adidas maintain and increase their commitment to using recycled materials and alternatives to virgin plastic.
And it is imperative that we as individuals, hiking groups, and running clubs come together as guardians of this planet we call home. Look at the products you are buying and if possible choose those using biodegradable, circular or recycled materials like the adidas Free Hiker.
So, whether you’re embarking on a weekend getaway, a multi-day trek or joining me in one of my upcoming clean ups, adidas Terrex shoes are the perfect companion for exploring Scotland’s stunning landscapes.
While I do miss running, I’ve found a new passion in hiking in the Scottish countryside. With its countless benefits for both body and soul, walking in nature offers a truly enriching experience that everyone should embrace.
I am part of the #adidasbloggercommunity and these blogs are sponsored