Tag Archives: lifestyle

Mountains of the world: The best mountain ranges

It’s no secret Team Inspired love a good mountain. There is no other feeling like standing on the top of a mountain or looking up at a range from a valley. While it’s impossible to pick a favourite, to celebrate ‪#‎WorldMountainDay‬, here are 5 of the most stunning mountains of the world.

The Peruvian Andes

Peru inspires wonder at every turn. From high mountains to lush valleys, traditional Quechuan villages and mystical Inca ruins, this beautiful country beams with cultural pride. There’s Sacred Valley, the classic Inca Trail, Lares Valley and of course, stunning Machu Picchu and Huyana Picchu (the mountain perched up behind Machu Picchu). We love Peru!

Learn more about the Inca Trail and the Lares Trail.

The Nepalese Himalayas

By day you will experience the majesty of the Himalayas together with a team of local guides and sherpas. At night you will fall asleep in traditional lodges and teahouses in remote Nepalese villages.

Mount Everest is the world’s highest mountain. It’s located in the Mahalangur mountain range. There are many other incredible mountain ranges and personally, we also love Annapurna! You’ll find the altitude is slightly lower on the trek through Annapurna, the scenery is diverse with more opportunities to meet and interact with locals.

Find out more about Everest and Annapurna.

The mountains of Bhutan

Tiger’s Nest Monastery (also known as Taktsang Monastery) is a Buddhist temple complex which clings to a cliff, 3,120 meters above the sea level on the side of the upper Paro valley of Bhutan. Of all the mountains of the world, this is truly incredible to see!

Check out Bhutan

Ladahk, Indian Himalayas

Ladakh is renowned for its remote mountain beauty and culture. Experience the beauty of an alpine desert set against the snow-capped peaks of the Indian Himalayas. The popular trekking destinations are Zanskar, Indus Valley and Kargil.

The culture-rich land of Ladakh is located in Jammu and Kashmir. Ladakh not only offers something for adventure enthusiasts but also tourists who want to explore Indian culture, and learn about Buddhism. Exploring this destination, you’ll have the chance to meet local villagers and learn about their lives.

Go to Ladakh

Mount Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Africa, 4,600m high, is the world’s highest freestanding mountain.

On this 12-day adventure, you will be pushed to your limit as you climb through five different climatic zones with the support of experienced guides. Trekking from cultivated farmlands to lush rainforest, through alpine meadow and across the barren lunar-like landscape to the summit, you’ll witness the incredible sight of the sun rising over the East African plains below.

Conquer Kilimanjaro

Feeling Inspired?

Visit the Inspired Adventures Calendar to find your mountain!

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Make your next getaway an eco-escape

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One of the best things about travelling has to be the unique and sometimes rare landscapes you find. Often, in places like the Grand Canyon, the Daintree Rainforest, or the Salar de Uyuni salt flats of Bolivia, the landscape itself is the destination. These ecological wonders are a fragile gift and underscore the need for conscious, light-tread tourism.

There are a number of third party certifications in Australia and globally that give their tick of approval to hotels and tour operators that meet ‘green’ travel requirements: from sustainable consumption to positive cultural and socioeconomic impact. The Global Sustainable Tourism Council acts as the self-regulatory body recognising the standards of various ecotourism organisations. Look for accommodation and tours that have a recognised certification!

We’ve rounded up our staff picks for best eco-lodges around Australia and the world. Remember the green travellers motto “Leave only footprints, take only photographs.”

Port Douglas, Australia – Thala Beach Nature Reserve

Nestled in far north Queensland on a private headland between Port Douglas and Cairns, Thala Beach Nature Reserve’s bungalows are set amongst its 145 acres of, as they put it, a “kaleidoscope of natural wonders.” Escape the city limits and spend your days amongst nature and wildlife and falling asleep in tree-top bungalows!

Lamington National Park, Australia – Binnaburra Lodge

Tucked away in the Gold Coast hinterland in Lamington National Park, Binnaburra Lodge consists of a number of different accommodation options including sky lodges and safari tent camping. Binnaburra is one of the first certified eco retreats in Australia and takes seriously its commitment to energy and water consumption and total waste production.

Andalucía, Spain- Los Gázquez Retreat

Los Gázquez is a well-known retreat in the Andalusion region of Spain offering accommodation and artist residencies. Formerly five separate farms, Los Gázquez now functions as one off-the-grid estate, offering a carbon-neutral escape.

Patagonia Region, Argentina – EcoCamp

Located in Torres del Paine National Park, renown for its glacial lakes and rugged mountain scenery, EcoCamp is a fully sustainable lodge. Offering guided nature treks, beautiful scenery, and unique geodesic dome accommodation EcoCamp caters to adventure seekers with a commitment to green travel.

Granada Region, Nicaragua – Jaciro Island Eco Lodge

Located on the shores of Lake Nicaragua near Granada, Nicaragua, Jaciro Eco Lodge has been rated among the best green lodges in the world. Accommodation is in private two-story ‘casitas’ made from local materials and integrated into the jungle as raised tree-houses. The resort is designed with sustainability in mind from water and electricity conservation to local employment policies.

Feeling inspired?

Visit the Inspired Adventures Calendar and find a charity challenge perfect for you

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The world’s friendliest countries

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Travelling is an inspiring, eye-opening and more often than not life-changing experience. If someone told you that travelling hadn’t irrevocably changed them in one way or another, I’d say they weren’t being truthful. There is just something so soulful and life-affirming about travel—it truly makes you understand how small you are in the spectrum of this wonderful planet we call home.

There are so many things that I love about travelling, but perhaps one of my favourite things would be the people I meet along the way. Now, I’m not talking about fellow travellers (although it’s always a great experience meeting them too!) I’m talking about the people who inhabit the wonderful countries I’ve visited.

The graciousness and kindness people offer to someone they’ve never met always astounds me. Of course when travelling you should always keep your wits about and do what feels safe, but if you open your hand and heart to those around you, it will be over-flowing by the time your journey comes to an end.

In this spirit of this, we’ve compiled a list from the research of the World Economic Forum of the friendliest places in the world to travel.

How could people in Iceland not be happy with this view?!

1. Iceland
Despite only getting 3-4 hours of sunlight per day in winter, the people of Iceland always seem to be so happy. Maybe it’s to do with their amazing volcanic scenery and mammoth waterfalls.

2.New Zealand
Australia might not have made the top 10 but our neighbours across the Tasman Sea surely did! Must be all that clear air, rolling hills and roaming sheep that puts our neighbours in a good mood.

3. Morocco
Mostly known for their ah-mazing food, Moroccans come in at number three on the world’s friendliest countries list. There is some history to their friendly ways, however; Morocco was the gateway to North African and a trading hub filled with so many different cultures. So really, their friendly disposition makes a lot of sense just based off that information alone.

4. Macedonia
The beautiful Macedonia comes in at number four. Why wouldn’t you be happy when you live in a city with awe-inspiring mountain views and charming ancient ruins?

5. Austria
Only in recent years has Austria become well known as one of the friendliest places to visit in Europe. With its picture-perfect views of rolling hills and gorgeous glacial lakes, it’s easy to see why.

6. Senegal
In new Africa lies the stunning Senegal, filled with white-sand beaches and dense tropical forests. Smiling and friendliness is just part of the package deal!

7. Portugal
From the gorgeous grottos in Lagos to the quaint homes and cobblestone streets of Lisbon, there isn’t much in Portugal not to love. And, it takes in about 13 million happy travellers each year. Smiles all round in Portugal.

8. Bosnia & Herzegovina
Bosnians are perhaps some of the nicest people you’ll ever come across in your travels. Another reason to visit the picturesque country is for their east-west fusion, mountain villages and remarkable river rapids.

9. Ireland
Ah, the luck of the Irish (or should it be the friendliness of the Irish?) The Emerald Isle, so-called because of its beautiful green landscapes, is renowned for its friendly locals and lovely hospitality.

10. Burkina Faso
Coming in at number 10 is Burkina Faso in West Africa. They are living proof that you don’t need much to be happy because whilst they are one of the friendliest, they are also one of the poorest countries in the world. Nonetheless, Burkina Faso offers some wonderful wildlife and amazing amber deserts that would put a smile on any local’s face.

Feeling inspired?

Discover other amazing and friendly countries around the world when you take on an Inspired Adventure! Visit the Inspired Adventures Calendar to find a charity challenge perfect for you

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How to give ethically this holiday season

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Hang on, are you telling me it’s nearly December!? With November almost over, it can only mean one thing … the giving season is upon us! No matter what you are celebrating, we have created a list of socially responsible gifts and tips to make sure you are doing your part for both people and the planet this year. You’re welcome!

Etsy’s handmade #makeforgood purchases support Plan International Australia

Etsy is an online marketplace for unique handmade and vintage goods. A couple of months ago, the folks behind Etsy teamed up with Plan International Australia to launch their #makeforgood campaign, where 20 per cent of all items sold online are directed towards the Because I Am A Girl initiative.

Creative entrepreneurs from all over Australia have joined forces with a common goal leading up to Christmas, which is to provide 150 micro-loans to Cambodian women to help them start their own businesses and lift their families out of poverty. With a huge range of one-off pieces including art, craft, jewellery and homeware, Etsy is the perfect place to tick off some items from your gift list.

Photo credit: Etsy

IKEA’s Soft Toys for Education supports UNICEF and Save The Children

Do you have a small child you need to buy for? Look no further than IKEA. Since the Soft Toys for Education launched 12 years ago, the program has raised the equivalent of AUD $115 million for UNICEF and Save the Children, while helping educate more than 11 million children.
For the first time this year, IKEA asked children around the world to design their own toys to feature amongst the range. This giving season when you purchase a toy in-store or online from November 1st to December 26th, you will help the IKEA Foundation to provide children living in poverty access education.

Photo Credit: IKEA

Grab your ugly Xmas rashie and support the Cancer Council QLD

With the weather warming up, are there any beach-goers on your gift list? The southern hemisphere’s answer to the daggy Christmas jumper is here … the Ugly Xmas Rashie.

Did you know? Two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer before they are 70. Perfect to ensure sun safety for the upcoming summer, the limited edition unisex rash-shirt was designed and manufactured locally in NSW by Kozii Swimwear. All profits from the sale of the rashie go towards the Cancer Council QLD as they continue to fight life-threatening cancers.

Photo Credit: The Ugly Xmas Rashie

Put a gift under the Kmart Wishing Tree for Mission Australia and The Salvation Army

Before finishing your conscious shopping for the season, don’t forget to grab a gift for a disadvantaged Australian to add to their holiday cheer this year. A fixture of the Australian Christmas for almost 30 years, the Kmart Wishing Tree is our longest and most loved Christmas gift appeal.

Make sure to visit your local Kmart store before December 24th and place something special under the tree. All gifts will be distributed to those most in need by Mission Australia and The Salvation Army. For 2015, Kmart is aiming to help their charity partners collect and distribute more than 500,000 gifts to at risk and marginalised people.

Gift wrapping for Lifeline

Now that you’ve got all your gifts, the last step is the gift wrapping. When you’ve finished your shopping this year, why not take a few hours to volunteer your time as a gift wrapper and help make an impact to the lives of Australians living with mental illness and support Lifeline?

If you can’t volunteer, consider taking your gifts to an All Phones stall set up in-store around the country. Shoppers can exchange their gifts along with a donation for beautifully wrapped Christmas presents. Funds raised from the wrapping appeal will help Lifeline fund their 24/7 crisis support line.

Purchase an OXFAM Christmas Tree

Once you have all of your gifts ticked off, they are ready to find their home under the tree! If you love the smell of a real Christmas tree and how it musters up that festive feeling, then make sure to get your Oxfam Christmas Tree order in by November 30th.

Available in NSW, VIC and SA for $89, your fresh pine tree will be delivered to your door in metropolitan areas between December 5th and 6th. All funds raised from your tree will go towards assisting families living in poverty around the globe.

Photo Credit: Oxfam

Last but not least … get fundraising!

Whether you’ve signed up for an Inspired Adventure and are in the midst of your fundraising journey, or you admire the work of a charity, the giving season is a perfect time to let your friends and family know this year you would prefer a donation to your favourite cause.

The best place to start would be an email to your networks letting them know that this year you don’t want a traditional present. Include a short paragraph about why the charity is close to your heart these holidays and a link so everyone can support the cause with an online donation in your honour. If you have plenty of energy then it’s not too late to consider a fundraising Christmas party. Other ideas include swapping Secret Santa this year for a donation sponsorship, a Christmas bake sale at your workplace, or an end of year BBQ with your local sports or community club.

Feeling inspired?

Want to give back and fundraise for an amazing cause in 2016? Visit the Inspired Adventures Calendar and find a charity challenge perfect for you.

@INSPIREDADVENTURES

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Fitness Series: Xtend Barre

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It seems that lately fitness trends have been popping up left right and centre! So many people are jumping aboard the health bandwagon and we couldn’t be happier. Making sure your body is healthy is so important, not just for your physical health, but for your mental health as well.

That’s why we are going to be rolling out a few exciting articles about current fitness trends, which will not only help you prepare you for your Inspired Adventure (if you’re not registered for one yet, then why on earth not?! Go visit our calendar!), but will also help you kick some of those health goals for the new year.

For our first article in this series, we spoke to Liz Nable, Director of Xtend Barre Mosman and Manly. Check it out!

Tell us about ballet barre. How did the concept originate?

I think there are a lot of different “versions” of how the barre workout originated. Barre workouts have been around since the 1950s. Many people think it’s a fad, but they’ve been around for decades, it’s just that it’s marketed differently now.

Lotte Berk, a ballet dancer and teacher from Germany is generally credited as being the first person to bring ballet based strength and conditioning training to the masses. In the 1950s, with the help of an osteopath, she developed a series of exercises based on her experience with dancing. Similar to pilates and yoga, the Lotte Berk method concentrated on targeting specific areas for strength and flexibility training.

In short, barre is like the strength and conditioning portion of a dancer’s training regime. Xtend Barre builds on that concept and takes it to the next level by layering in ballet combinations and cardio and consistently advancing each exercise to give clients a complete body workout.

How did you come to try ballet barre for the first time?

I first tried a barre workout when my husband Adam and I were living in New York in 2009. A friend in my mother’s group suggested a barre class to me as I was complaining about finding it really difficult to lose the baby weight after my first child, Ruby, and found the gym really boring and uninspiring.

How was your first class? Did anything memorable happen?

Yes! Right from the first few minutes my mind was just racing, thinking, this is awesome, I can’t believe exercise can be this challenging and motivating and fun all at the same time! I just keep thinking over and over – this would be huge in Australia!

What can someone expect out of a barre class? What does a typical class look like?

The first thing I would say about an Xtend Barre class is that watching one and doing one are two completely different things! You need to actually DO a class to feel how it works. Watching a Youtube video doesn’t cut it. Xtend Barre is designed to work all parts of your body proportionately. The classes are formatted into warm up, upper body (with weights), barre work, abs, lower body, stretch. It’s 55 minutes in length and no two classes are the same.

It’s a thigh quivering, arm shaking, ab sculpting hour that works muscles you never even knew you had! I love that it’s about the discipline of knowing which muscles you’re working and working them intensely in isolation and not just throwing your hands and legs around. The focus on working each muscle group properly means Xtend Barre takes working out to a whole new level!

Can anyone do ballet barre?

Yes! We have so many people email and call us and say they’re not dancers – can they still do the workout? The answer is yes – absolutely! The beauty of Xtend Barre is that our classes are designed to be multi-level, so whether you’re a new mum, or a marathon runner you will find the class challenging. Each exercise can be modified to suit the clients’ level of fitness or ability and as they get stronger we advance the exercises to keep them challenged. I particular love when we get super fit clients come into class and laugh at our little 2kg weights…there’s a tiny element of satisfaction when you see them subtly putting them down half way through the upper body section because they get too heavy!

How has ballet barre changed your body and your fitness?

The results of Xtend Barre for me and for so many of our clients is just unbelievable. After that first class in New York, I continued classes for 12 weeks, combined with a clean eating regime I lost 12 kilos in 12 weeks. I had never, ever had those kinds of results. I had triceps, core definition, strength and long lean muscles. I felt and looked the best I had ever felt in my life. We’ve changed so many clients lives the same way. So many transformations, but it’s so much more than just a body transformation. If I had a dollar for every time a client said to me that they’d never, ever enjoyed exercise before they tried Xtend Barre and their only regret was that they didn’t discover it sooner I’d be a very rich woman!

Xtend Barre is just this perfect combination of good music, great energy, great teachers, and great results that gets people addicted!

TRIED & TESTED: What barre is really like

From my first class, I was completely obsessed! My first class was actually pretty funny – I didn’t know any of the moves, but it didn’t matter! The teachers at Xtend Barre are amazing. They not only do the routine, but they are also constantly walking around helping adjust people’s form and technique, explaining it in such an easy way to understand. I also love that each teacher has their own playlist – music tastes for everyone!

One of the best parts about barre is that no class is ever the same! It means I’m never bored and never know what’s next. I was so surprised with how I felt after my first class. I was sore but a different kind of sore – “strong sore” as I called it. I’ve been going 5-6 times a week, which I’ve never done with any other kind of class. When I don’t go I honestly miss it and start dancing around my kitchen instead!

I’ve also been so happy with my progress, I went from barely being able to do 5 push-ups on my knees and now I can do 20+ on my feet. I have also been able to do some of the advanced moves, which means I’m getting stronger and fitter and it’s such an amazing feeling. That’s another great thing about barre – the instructors give you variations so you can push yourself as far as you’re comfortable with.

If you’re thinking about it then I’d say just give it a go. You’ll know straight away if you love it or you don’t. I feel really lucky that I’ve found the type of exercise that I love and hope more can do the same!”

“I’d heard a lot about barre from a few friends who had tried it – mainly about how hard it was! But I’m always up for a challenge so that didn’t deter me. I was a gymnast and did a few years of jazz ballet when I was younger so the ballet part of it was really appealing.”

Practising barre at Machu Picchu last month!

Feeling inspired?

Get moving! Barre might be your new-found workout obsession. Search for a studio near you.
Then, visit the Inspired Adventures Calendar and find a charity challenge perfect for you and your new found fitness!

Need to knows:

Cost: $$ (costly, but it’s worth it if you go often and love it!)
Challenge grade: 4/5
Fun grade: 5/5
Locations: All across the country!

@XTENDBARREMANLY

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Go Glomad: Destress and Revitalise

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In a world where most of us are constantly on the go, it’s important to remember to take the time to destress and get in touch with yourself and your needs.

That’s where Glomad comes in. Founder of Glomad, Josh Murray, understood that there was more to life than his career and constantly running around and being stressed. He wanted to do something more. So he founded Glomad, the top destination for finding incredible yoga workshops, retreats, teacher training and festivals around the world!

We were lucky enough to catch a quick interview with Josh about Glomad and what it’s all about.

Check it out below!

Feeling inspired?

Find a charity challenge and do something good for others, whilst also inspiring yourself. Visit our adventure calendar.

Head to Glomad.com for more info on where you can go to destress and revitalise.

@INSPIREDADVENTURES

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Discover China: The Great Wall in Pictures

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Winding its way across the north of China, from the Yellow Sea to the Gobi Desert, the Great Wall of China is one of mankind’s most impressive accomplishments. Experience the Great Wall in all its glory as you trek between mist-covered mountains, into local villages, across rolling farmlands and through dense forest. Explore the many facets of the Great Wall, deciphering the ancient stories and poems etched into its watchtowers—every brick seeming to tell a story of war and adventure.

Swapping the majesty of the Great Wall for the hustle and bustle of Beijing, be immersed in China’s confounding and contrasting culture. Discover the ancient history of the Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven, experience the poignancy of Tiananmen Square and marvel at the modernity of the 798 Art District.

Day 1: Beijing – Jingshan Park and Tiananmen Square

As we descended into the bustling city of Beijing, the team was excited to witness the sights and sounds of our new surroundings – we had arrived! After we freshened up in our rooms, we had a traditional Chinese lunch together and it was the perfect welcome to Beijing. We then headed to Jingshan Park where we met a true Tai Chi Master who taught us the five basic moves of Tai Chi. With our balance and “chi” levels centred, we walked through Jingshan Park to the highest lookout where we saw the spectacular view of the Forbidden city juxtaposed against the new skyscrapers of Beijing. After such a jam-packed first day, the team had some free time in the evening to relax or explore.

Day 2: Temple of Heaven and Forbidden City tour

Today was a busy day full of sight seeing and enjoying the beautiful city of Beijing. After breakfast, we headed to Tiananmen Square, getting our first taste of the melting cultural pot that typifies Beijing. We then headed to The Forbidden City. Hero, our local tour guide, told us stories of emperors, empresses, and Chinese heroes making the city really come alive. Then it was time for the Temple of Heaven, which was just beautiful.

Day 3: Taipingzhai to Huangyaguan

After breakfast, we drove to the Eastern Qing Tombs. These ancient tombs are the final resting place for many emperors and empresses. This imperial mausoleum was fantastically preserved and echoed the lives of the imperial families. The team walked through the marbled tomb that was etched with Buddhist carvings and decorations. We even saw the coffins of the ancient imperial family.

We then headed to a local restaurant with typical dishes of the region and stocked up on some energy and sustenance to begin our walk! After having a quick power nap on the bus during our transfer, the team was excited to take their first steps on the wall and we enjoyed setting a pace for the coming days of the trek.

Day 4: Gubeikou to Jinshanling

Today’s trek started at Gubekou. We walked on some of the beautiful and unrestored sections feeling like we were the only people for miles…because we were! We stopped for lunch and a quick photo op – it was hard to pick which backdrop to choose as all were spectacular. After a quick rest and some ice cream at a convenience stall on the wall (we were surprised too!) we finished our last leg of the day before enjoying some drinks and dinner.

Day 5: Jinshanling to Simatai

Today we trekked up steep slopes and scaled down crumbling sections of the wall. It was tough, but everyone powered through and rose to the challenge. We enjoyed beers along with farm fresh produce for lunch at a local restaurant.

Day 6: Simatai to Mutianyu via Jiankou

This morning after breakfast, we had to hike up a steep mountain to reach the wall. The plunging drops and unrestored terrain meant that we had to focus and work as a team to finish the trek. At the end of our trek, it was time for some fun! Half the team enjoyed a scenic ride down the mountain on a cable cart while the other half enjoyed a toboggan ride. Once we reached the bottom, we transferred to our hotel for a delicious group dinner.

Day 7: Huairou to Huanghuacheng and Beijing

After an early wake-up, we transferred to the starting point of our final day of trekking. We stopped for lunch at a local guesthouse where we refuelled on local trout, fried wild vegetables and many more delicious local delicacies. After a quick transfer, we headed for our home stretch. We panted and persevered up many stairs until the final step off the wall! After a quick ice cream, we transferred back to Beijing and enjoyed a relaxing celebratory drink and meal.

Day 8: Hutong tour & 798 Art District

Swapping the wall for the city, after breakfast we headed to the 798 Art District. We strolled around the city and saw some weird but wonderful contemporary art. After a mighty lunch of incredibly tasty peking duck, we jumped aboard rickshaws and cruised through the tiny lanes of Beijing’s quaint and charming hutongs.

Feeling inspired?

Ready to tackle the Great Wall? See our departure dates here!

@INSPIREDADVENTURES

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What it’s like to run a half marathon

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The thought of running a marathon or even a half marathon is daunting for many. However, running your first half marathon or marathon is not impossible, and at the finish line, all the hard work you put in will be overwhelmingly rewarding. Inspired’s very own Charlie Bartlett, Fundraising Coordinator extraordinaire, recently took on her first half-marathon and surprisingly loved it. Who knew that was possible?! We spoke to Charlie to get the low-down on what it really takes to run a half marathon.

So Charlie, how long have you been running for?

Charlie: I have always been sporty and love my team sports but was not hugely into running. But after finishing university I found running to be very accessible and this is when I really picked it up.

Why did you start running?

Charlie: I feel so much better after I have been on a run. It is a great way to clear your mind and I normally go in my lunch break, so I come back feeling much more energized and ready for the second half of the day. It improves my mood and my health so it’s a win-win really!

“There’s no feeling quite like it!”

What made you decide to run a half marathon?

Charlie: I was actually inspired by the people I work with as a Fundraising Coordinator at Inspired. I coach people who are taking on an adventure or a marathon to reach their fundraising and training goals. I’m always encouraging them to push out of their comfort zone, really commit to their training and seeing what they achieve when they put their minds to it. This is what motivated me to take on a half marathon.

How did you train?

Charlie: To be honest, I did not have a specific training plan other than to go on runs as often as I could and for as long as I could. It would be about 8kms during the week, and longer runs around 14kms on the weekend. I feel like I got a pretty good finish time for my first attempt, but I would definitely like to focus on the training a little more for my next one! My marathon runners are all giving me tips already!

What’s the best thing to eat before and after a run?

Charlie: I had a piece of toast with peanut butter and banana with a coffee. Anything that will give you fuel and energy but won’t sit heavily in your stomach is good! I had to get up super early to eat though to make sure I had time to digest my breakfast, as I hate running on a full stomach. Once I finished, I drank a lot of water – hydration is really important!

How did you feel after completing your first half marathon?

Tired but completely amazing! There’s no feeling quite like it!

Any plans to tackle a full marathon?

Charlie: I am in awe of people who run full marathons. They’re so long! It’s definitely something I would love to work towards. I’d maybe like to run the Berlin Marathon, as it’s such an awesome city! Or the London Marathon, which is back in my homeland!

Feeling inspired?

Visit our marathon challenges here

@INSPIREDADVENTURES

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