Pitlochry, hiking and fitness

Pitlochry, Scotland

It's hard to believe that it's been three weeks since I last posted. Time sure has flown by, largely due to work becoming increasingly busy. In that time I've also enjoyed a short trip to Pitlochry with my girlfriend. It was a perfect short break; I sure needed that time to relax, and really enjoyed the scenery. I'd love to return there soon to do a bit more hiking.

We enjoyed a walk around the dam and a short hike through the woods and countryside, but Ben Vrackie in the distance was so tantalising. The town sits close to the edge of the Cairngorms, a mountain range I've only been able to enjoy from afar as the snow-topped peaks sat on the horizon. After my research projects end, I should have around three weeks of holiday before starting 4th year of university. I'm hoping to get away again in that time, even if it's just to camp, and the Cairngorms are a possibility.

Another place I'd like to get away to for a night or two of camping is Arran, although I'm sure that if I set out early enough, I'd cover all of the hills there which interest me in a day. Goat Fell has been on my to-do list for far too long!

I've known for a while that I need to get back in shape, but I've lacked that drive to do something about it. This time I'm determined to succeed and I'm relying on some technology to provide me with accountability. I've started to use Endomondo for tracking walks, runs etc. through their Android application. I don't expect this to help me succeed; obviously that rests on me alone. However, I think that being able to set myself goals and trying to beat my previous bests will help motivate me to keep going.

I've challenged myself to do 50 miles of walking in a month (not including walking as part of my commute) so I'll be reporting back here between now and the 24th of August. It's a lovely day today and, despite having already been out for a short walk, I fancy another. I may as well enjoy the sunshine while it lasts!