Tuscany Training · Final Push & Taper

Soleful Notes from the Path of the Wild Heart — preparing body and spirit for Lucca → Siena.

“The last days before a pilgrimage are not about proving anything. They are about readiness — body, spirit, and breath aligned for the road ahead.”

Oct 1–5 · Push Endurance

1× 18–20 km (long)
1× 10–12 km (medium)
1–2× 5–7 km (short)
  • Do the long day with your actual daypack weight and gentle hills if possible.
  • Practice fueling: small snack every 60–90 minutes; sip water every 10–15 minutes.
  • After the long day: stretch, hydrate, and prioritize sleep.

Mindset prompt: How do I steady myself when the road feels long?

Oct 6–10 · Gentle Taper

1× 8–10 km (medium)
1–2× 3–5 km (short)
  • Keep effort light — these walks are about confidence, not pushing harder.
  • Stretch and cool down after every walk; notice how recovery feels easier now.
  • Hydrate daily, not just on walk days — Tuscany’s hills will thank you.

Mindset prompt: What qualities emerge when I walk gently, not urgently?

Oct 11–13 · Arrival Prep

  • Very light walking or rest (3–5 km max, or gentle stretching).
  • Pack your gear; check socks, boots, and rain layers are ready.
  • Prioritize sleep, hydration, and simple nourishing meals.

Goal: Arrive in Lucca with fresh legs, open heart, and trust in your training.

Packing Wisdom — Final Days

  • Warm up: 5 min of easy pace, roll shoulders, breathe deeply.
  • Cool down: 5 min slow pace + gentle calf/hip/hamstring stretches.
  • Snacks + hydration: tested and trusted — no new experiments now.
  • Daypack: carry full weight for your final long walk.

This Week’s Invitation

On your long walk, pause halfway. Take three breaths and ask:

“What strength have I discovered in myself that I didn’t know was there?”

Quick Checks

  • Boots fully broken in — no hot spots?
  • Daypack adjusted — sits on hips, not shoulders?
  • Blister prevention plan tested?
  • Travel documents ready — passport, insurance, euros?

Itinerary Reality (Oct 14–21)

  • 18 km · 20 km · 10 km · 25 km · Rest · 16 km · 25 km · 15 km
  • Training above builds confidence for the long days, while taper ensures fresh legs.