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Just when you thought it couldn’t get any more Game of Thrones-y. I am a member of the medieval historical society, the SCA. We are rapidly approaching summer event season. So this challenge is going to be a deviation from normal. I need to develop some better general physical preparedness (UGH) and some better habits. Because: It’s a lot of time outdoors, in the heat, walking or standing around. Whether it’s a day trip, a weekend camp, or a week-long camp, you are hauling much gear and doing a lot of walking. Sometime this summer or next I’m going to start training to be a combat archer which means wearing a helmet and lightweight armor around the battlefield, which also involves walking and standing. But with extra weight and carrying a crossbow. Previous summers you could walk up behind me and hear me saying things like: omg it’s too hot, omg my feet hurt, omg how far do we have to carry your armor bag this time, omg I need more lightweight medieval garb I am sweating like a mule. Quest 1: Walk outdoors Go for a walk outside twice a week, 30 – 45 minutes Goal: Build heat tolerance Quest 2: Strength training, add a couple strongman weight carry exercises Log 14 strength sessions in 4 weeks Goal: Be able to carry gear around like it’s no big deal Quest 3: Water Drink 5 (22 oz) bottles of water a day Goal: Get in the habit of staying hydrated Quest 4: Sunblock Wear sunblock anytime I am doing yardwork, gardening, or walking outdoors for more than 15 minutes at a time Goal: Get in the habit of not getting skin cancer, which I am at risk for Quest 5: Sewing Sew for 2 hours per week. Post progress pictures on the forum Goal: Have lightweight dresses for the summer. I’ve sewn all of 3-4 items in the last 2 years, and really need to step up my game ------------------------------ Week Zero Goals Figure out what strongman exercises I want to incorporate, even if it’s just variations on the farmers carry. I’m open to suggestions. Things I have in mind: stairs, sandbag carry, kettlebell rack carry, kettebell bottoms up carry. Write out the steps I need to do to complete the dress I started sewing… a year ago. Buy facial and body sunblock Find a cheap backpack at the thrift store for walking with light weights (not going to do any serious rucking, probably 10-15 lbs at most this month.) And maybe a bag I can turn into a sandbag