So, you have decided to walk the Camino. You have picked your route, started gathering your gear, and maybe even found yourself daydreaming about tapas and a post-walk glass of vino tinto. But before you get too carried away with thoughts of leisurely strolls through Spanish vineyards, let’s talk about something that will make or break your pilgrimage: training.

Yes, I know. The Camino is not Everest. It is not an ultramarathon. And yes, people of all ages and fitness levels complete it every year. But let’s be clear—walking 20-30 km (12-18 miles) a day, every day, for weeks is no small feat. Your feet, legs, and back will feel it. The good news? A little preparation now can mean fewer blisters, less pain, and a much more enjoyable journey.

Walk, Walk, and Walk Some More

There is no magic formula, but the best way to train for walking… is to walk. Start now, even if your Camino is months away. Begin with 3-5 km (2-3 miles) a day, then gradually work your way up to 15-20 km (9-12 miles) at least once a week. Walking long distances once is easy—doing it day after day is the real challenge. Try a back-to-back training weekend, where you walk long distances two days in a row. Your legs will thank you later. And most importantly, train in the shoes you will wear on the Camino. They should be broken in long before you arrive in Spain. If they give you blisters now, they will give you blisters on Day 1 of the Camino.

The Art of Walking with a Backpack

Your backpack will be your best friend and your worst enemy. Learning how to carry weight comfortably will make all the difference. Start by walking with 3-5 kg (6-10 lbs) in your pack, then slowly increase to your full Camino load (ideally under 10% of your body weight). Make sure the hip belt takes most of the weight, not your shoulders. Adjust the straps as needed for maximum comfort. And do not just walk on sidewalks—train on different terrain. The Camino is not smooth pavement the whole way. Seek out hills, dirt paths, cobblestones, and uneven surfaces. If you can, train in the rain. You will walk through all kinds of weather, and better to discover now whether your gear holds up when wet.

Strength & Endurance: More Than Just Walking

Walking is key, but a little strength and flexibility training can prevent injuries and make the walk feel easier. Squats and lunges strengthen your legs for long walking days. Calf raises prepare you for uphill climbs. Yoga and stretching help keep your legs, back, and shoulders happy. Cross-training—whether cycling, swimming, or hiking—can build overall endurance. The more prepared your muscles are, the less pain you will feel after long days on the trail.

Train Your Mind (It Will Quit Before Your Legs Do)

Here is a Camino secret: your mindset matters as much as your muscles. There will be days when you feel amazing, like you could walk forever. And there will be days when everything hurts, when you are exhausted, when you wonder why you ever thought walking across Spain was a good idea.

This is where mental training comes in. Embrace discomfort. Accept now that there will be sore feet, hills, and long days. The sooner you let go of the idea that everything should be easy, the better you will handle the tough moments. Practice slowing down. Walk without rushing, without checking your watch, without worrying about how far you have left to go. The Camino is not about speed—it is about being present in each step. And train for “Camino frustrations.” Walk when you are tired. Walk in the rain. Walk when things do not go as planned. Because on the Camino, things will not always go as planned.

Blister Prevention: The Real MVP of Training

Blisters can ruin your Camino faster than a lost backpack. The best way to avoid them? Prevention. Wear the right socks—no cotton! Wool or moisture-wicking socks (like Darn Tough or Smartwool) help reduce friction. Your shoes should have extra room—your feet will swell after long days. A half-size up can prevent painful toe blisters. Some pilgrims swear by lubricating their feet with Vaseline or anti-chafing balm to prevent hotspots. And the most important rule? The moment you feel rubbing, stop and fix it. Apply tape, adjust your socks, take a break—do not wait until you have a full blister.

The Ultimate Test: A “Mini Camino”

If possible, do a multi-day test walk before you leave. Walk two to three days in a row with your full pack and Camino shoes. This will reveal:
• If your backpack is too heavy
• If your shoes will destroy your feet
• If you actually like walking all day (because, spoiler: you will be doing a lot of it)

Final Thoughts: Walk at Your Own Pace

The Camino is not a race. You do not need to be the fastest, strongest, or most prepared person out there. But you do need to listen to your body, walk your own walk, and enjoy the journey.

Because the truth is, no amount of training will fully prepare you for the Camino. There will be surprises, struggles, and moments of unexpected joy. But what training can do is help you start strong, avoid injuries, and make the journey a whole lot more enjoyable.

So start walking now. Train your legs, train your mind, and most of all—train yourself to embrace the unknown.

Because the Camino is waiting for you.

Buen Camino.