Do you want to know how to train and prepare for Oxfam Trailwalker? Then, this is the page where you’ll find tips for a successful hike! We interviewed “Aruko-holics”, who are participating in TW2010, and asked them how they are training and fundraising for the event.

■Q.1
What made you decide to join Oxfam Trailwalker Japan as a walker, supporter or volunteer?

・My colleagues introduced me to Trailwalker and I've volunteered at Checkpoint 6 since 2007. Trailwalker is a fun way to contribute to international development, so I would like to get more and more involved in this event.

・ I admire Oxfam's activities, such as providing water supplies in developing countries, and the people of Yagurasawa community's (CP6) enthusiastic cooperation with Trailwalker touched me…

■Q.2
How do you train? Do you have any specific training tips?

・We've almost finished walking the whole course. Now, it's important that we practice our walking speed.

・Our support crew also join our training walks so they can be substitutes should one of our members have to retire during or before the event.

・After training, we usually hold a meeting to discuss plans for our next training hike, our fundraising efforts and for our support crew.

・I try to walk long distances where, previously, I would usually catch a train. Actually, I enjoy plotting a walking course on a map. It's fun.

・It is important to have a purpose when training, for instance, to get used to walking at night or to find a way to overcome muscle pain etc…

The ‘Aruko-holics’ prepare for Trailwalker with regular training hikes on the course and by incorporating long distance walking in their daily lives.

■Q.3
How do you fundraise?

　 ・I placed a charity box at my tennis club and I distributed leaflets to the club members explaining Trailwalker and asking for their support. ・It is worth telling as many people as possible about Trailwalker and Oxfam’s important work. ・Letting people know is the first step. Explain what Oxfam are doing, why we want to walk 100km, what is our purpose in taking part in this event; then ask for some kind of support. ・We designed a team T-shirt to help with fundraising. We are planning to hold a Hanami-party as well.

The ‘Aruko-holics’ believe that first step towards successful fundraising is to explain the concepts behind and purpose of Trailwalker.

■Q.4
How do support crews help?

・We are working on the details for our support crew plan. (5W1H) ・I suppose it is helpful to train with the team members so that you understand what they really need from their support crew. ・We are planning to provide a BBQ at CP4 for all members of the team, both Trailwalkers and support crews. ・I also want to volunteer for the event, if I have time to do so.

The ‘Aruko-holics’ support crew always walk with the Trailwalkers sharing both the fun and the challenges.
These experiences give the support crew a good idea of the needs of their team and, therefore, how to plan their support during the event.