Author: John Beamson

I am a qualified Mountain Leader who has spent the last two years undertaking long distance hikes, climbing all of the highest mountains in the UK and working with senior Mountain Leaders. I was also in the British Army for ten years. Whilst out in the hills and mountains and on worldwide Operational Tours with the Army, I have encountered numerous dangerous situations that in the majority of cases could have been avoided If people were better prepared. “Why am I being asked to drink lots of water before, during and after events?” Regardless of whether you are walking in heat or cold, H2O keeps your body functioning and if you have not adequately hydrated in the days leading up to the event you can very quickly suffer from dizziness, headache, fatigue, nausea and cramps on the event and that is just as a result of average physical exertion – Robustours events really challenge the body. Dehydration is completely avoidable – drink little and often, don’t wait until you are thirsty. Drink WATER – sports drinks are an aid later on in events but they are not a replacement for water. “What about food?” Your body needs more than a protein bar and an apple to see you through a Robustours event – carbohydrates are key for energy followed by protein and fat. Fuel the night before with a good high carb meal (e.g. lots of pasta) and eat a good breakfast on the day of the event e.g. porridge, wholemeal toast/peanut butter and bananas. Remember to fuel your body with snacks throughout the day that slowly release carbs – we want you to smash the event, not crash because you didn’t eat enough. Safety and wellbeing on all Robust events is paramount, therefore please ensure that you adhere to the kit list and ask me any questions/seek my advice prior to the event. Proper Prior Planning Prevents P*ss Poor Performance. Regards John Beamson