By Amy Williamson, Senior Women’s Health Physiotherapist at our Hampstead clinic.
I completed the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge at the weekend. It’s a walking challenge spread over three of the highest peaks in Yorkshire – and the aim is to complete it in under 12 hours.
24 miles over three peaks
The route is 24 miles (38.6km), and includes 1,585m (5,200ft) of ascent over the peaks of Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough. They’re in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, forming part of the Pennine range and encircling the head of the valley of the River Ribble.
We set off at 7.30am and stormed up the first peak
We made a great start – reaching the top of the first peak in excellent time. Unfortunately though, I slipped on a wet rock on the descent and landed on my hip, twisting my knee. After a quick self-assessment(!) we were back on the way again and making up for lost time.
The ascent of Pen-y-ghent was more of a scramble
We had lots of rocky stacks and crumbling paths to contend with. We were soon up in the clouds at the top though and quickly cooling down – so after a snack and team photo we made our way down again.
It was hard to psych ourselves up for the last peak!
But I had a great group of family and friends with me and when the sun came out we all got the boost we needed. Reaching the final summit felt amazing and we were all in high spirits for the descent.
We completed the challenge in just over 10 hours
And although this was just over our goal time, we were all chuffed to have made it despite a few injuries. Someone else did the splits on a slippery rock – I think I got off easy with my bruised knee and ego! We celebrated in classic Yorkshire style (with pie, chips and a pint at the local pub).
Since returning to work I’ve been getting some top tips from the fantastic people I work with to help me rehab my knee – one of the many perks of being a Physio! If anyone’s looking for a challenge with amazing views, great food and meeting lots of friendly people on the way, then the Yorkshire Three Peaks may just be for you.