Short on time before your Camino? You can still arrive well prepared. With just a month or two, focus on regular walks, gradually building to 15 to 25 km, breaking in your shoes and getting used to your daypack. Even a few weeks of consistent walking makes a real difference to your comfort and enjoyment. Here is how to make the most of the time you have, body and mind. Got more time? Follow our full guide on how to train for the Camino or our free 6-Month Camino Fitness Plan.
Table of contents
Can you train for the Camino at the last minute?
Yes. If you’re only now thinking about training, don’t panic, it’s not too late. You may feel a mix of excitement and nerves, but with the right focus in the last month or two you can prepare your body and mind for a rewarding Camino de Santiago. The key with limited time is consistency over intensity: shorter, regular walks beat one big effort. And if your fitness or your timescale worries you, you can always choose a shorter or gentler route (more on that below).
Assess Your Current Fitness Level
Take a moment to be honest about where you’re starting from. If you already walk or cycle regularly, you have a great foundation to build on. If you’ve been more sedentary, that’s fine too: start gently and increase gradually, focusing on consistency.
Then set realistic goals for the weeks you have. Aim to walk or cycle several times a week, slowly increasing duration and distance, so you can comfortably cover what you’ll face on the Camino. For most walkers that means working towards 15 to 25 km (9 to 15 miles) a day, while cyclists might aim for 40 to 60 km (25 to 37 miles).
Set Realistic Goals
Setting realistic training goals is crucial in the weeks leading up to your departure. Aim to walk or cycle several times a week, gradually increasing the duration and distance of your sessions. Your goal should be to comfortably cover distances similar to what you’ll encounter on the Camino. For walkers, that typically means covering 15-25 km/ 9-15 miles daily, while cyclists might aim for 40-60 km/ 25-37 miles.
If you have a month or two: what to prioritise
When time is short, put your energy into the things that matter most on the trail.
Incorporate Long Walks or Rides
One of the most critical aspects of your training is to simulate the conditions you’ll face on the Camino. Plan for at least one long walk or ride per week, gradually extending the distance. This could start at 10 km/ 6 miles for walkers and work up to 20-25 km/ 12-15 miles. Cyclists should start at 20 km/ 12 miles and aim for 50-60 km/ 30-37 miles. Use these sessions to test your gear and get used to spending several hours on your feet or in the saddle.
Train with Your Backpack or Gear
If you’ll be carrying a backpack on the Camino, getting used to the weight and how it affects your balance and endurance is essential. Start with a lighter load and gradually increase the weight to around 7-10 kg, which is the typical weight pilgrims carry.
However, if you have booked our luggage transfer service, remember that you’ll likely only need a smaller backpack with your daily essentials, such as water, snacks, medicines, and any other items you might need for the day. Cyclists should ensure their bikes are well-equipped and practice with any panniers or bags they use. Getting accustomed to your gear will help prevent any surprises on the trail.
Strengthen Key Muscle Groups
Walking or cycling the Camino requires strength in key muscle groups, including your legs, core, and back. Incorporate exercises like squats, lunges, and planks into your routine to build strength and stability. Adding some upper body workouts can also benefit cyclists, as it helps them handle the bike and maintain good posture.
Focus on Flexibility and Recovery
Incorporate stretching and flexibility exercises into your training to keep your muscles supple and reduce the risk of injury. Yoga or simple stretching routines can be very effective. Pay attention to your body’s signals and allow time for recovery after long sessions. Proper rest is just as important as the training itself.
The Camino de Santiago Fitness eBook offers last-minute training tips, workout routines, essential exercises, and a step-by-step plan to help you physically prepare for one of the most significant walks of your life.
Mental Preparation: Getting the Right Mindset
Mental preparation is critical to a fulfilling Camino experience. Discover how to mentally prepare for the Camino, ensuring you can embrace the challenges and rewards ahead.
Visualise Your Journey
Mental preparation is often overlooked, but it is crucial for the Camino. Take some time each day to visualise your journey. Imagine walking or cycling through the beautiful landscapes, arriving at your destination each day, and feeling a sense of accomplishment when you reach Santiago. This mental imagery can boost your confidence and help you stay motivated.
Practice Mindfulness
The Camino is as much a spiritual journey as a physical one. Incorporating mindfulness into your daily routine can help you connect with the deeper purpose of your pilgrimage. Simple practices like deep breathing, meditation, or even just spending a few quiet moments in nature can help you cultivate a sense of inner calm and focus.
Prepare for the Challenges
While the Camino is a rewarding experience, it can also be challenging at times. Mentally prepare yourself for fatigue, blisters, or less-than-ideal weather. Remember that these challenges are part of the journey and can often lead to the most memorable and meaningful experiences. Developing a resilient mindset will help you overcome any obstacles that come your way.
If you only have a couple of weeks
With very little time, be realistic and kind to yourself. Walk as often as you can, even short walks, and prioritise breaking in your shoes to avoid blisters. Don’t cram in one exhausting walk the day before you fly, as that does more harm than good. Above all, consider matching the Camino to the time you’ve had: our Easy Walking Collection offers shorter days of 10 to 15 km, and the popular last 100 km from Sarria is a gentler way to earn your Compostela. Not sure you’re ready? Start with Am I fit enough to walk the Camino?
Practical Tips: Fine-Tuning the Details
Test Your Gear
Use your training period to test all your gear, from footwear to clothing and accessories. Make sure everything is comfortable and functions as expected. Pay particular attention to your shoes or boots—ensure they’re well broken in to avoid blisters. Cyclists should double-check their bikes for any needed adjustments or repairs.
Plan Your Nutrition
Proper nutrition is vital to maintaining your energy levels on the Camino. Experiment with different snacks and meals during training to find what works best. Whether it’s energy bars, fruits, or sandwiches, find portable options you can easily carry. Hydration is equally important, so practice drinking water regularly during walks or rides.
Prepare for the Weather
September and October can bring varied weather conditions along the Camino. Pack layers and be prepared for everything from warm, sunny days to cooler, rainy weather. If you haven’t already, invest in a good-quality rain jacket and lightweight layers that can be easily added or removed.
Haven’t booked yet?
It’s not too late to plan your Camino at short notice. If you’d like a quieter, more reflective experience, the shoulder seasons are wonderful: mild weather, fewer pilgrims and beautiful light. Discover why autumn on the Camino is such a special time to walk. With these last-minute tips, a little body-and-mind preparation will set you up for a fulfilling journey, so take your time, enjoy every step, and Buen Camino!
For help choosing a route that fits your timescale, or to book your trip, contact us or plan your Camino.
FAQs
Yes, a month of consistent walking can prepare you well, especially for shorter routes. Aim to walk several times a week, build up to 15 to 25 km, break in your shoes and practise with your daypack. Consistency matters more than intensity when time is short.
You can, but it’s not recommended. Most untrained pilgrims suffer blisters, sore knees and exhaustion within the first few days. If you truly have no time to train, choose a shorter or easier route, keep your daily distances low and break in your shoes beforehand.
Walk as often as you can, even short walks, focus on breaking in your footwear, and add some light leg and core exercises. Avoid one exhausting walk right before you travel. With only two weeks, consider a gentler route such as the Easy Walking Collection or the last 100 km from Sarria.
It’s rarely too late. Even a few weeks of regular walking improves your comfort and reduces the risk of injury. The goal is to arrive feeling ready, not to become an athlete, so build up gradually and listen to your body.
Yes, though it’s easier. With your main luggage moved hotel to hotel, you only carry a light daypack, so train with that. You’ll still be walking several hours a day, so a few weeks of regular walking will make those days far more enjoyable.
Match the Camino to your time and fitness. Shorter days, fewer stages and gentler routes let almost anyone enjoy the journey. See our Easy Walking Collection, or read Am I fit enough to walk the Camino? to find the right option for you.
