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Outdoor Tips, Tricks, Inspiration and Activities | MEC Blog

Halfway up the 1500m South Ridge of Serra Two in BC’s Waddington Range, I discovered I’m powerful. And I don’t mean physically powerful; I knew that a long time ago. What I mean is, I finally realized the internal strength and resilience I possess.

It was the summer of 2012 and two girlfriends and I had been dropped off at the head of the 22km-long Tiedemann Glacier by our pilot, Mike King. I’d never felt so small. From our perch rose Mount Combatant (3762m), Mount Tiedemann (3848m), Mount Asperity (3716m), and Serra’s One through Five. Each ridge-line from glacier to summit represented 1600m or more of technical rocky relief. As Mike navigated his Bell 204 helicopter away from us, we stood alone among giants.

A few days in, while on Serra Two’s south ridge, our climb wasn’t quite going according to plan. We began to notice low-hanging clouds around the summits, indicating a breakdown in the high-pressure system we’d been riding. We quietly discussed the deteriorating weather as we curled into our bivy. With 800m of complex low fifth-class terrain below us, retreating would be slower and more complicated than continuing upward. Darkness fell and we lay silently cocooned, ears straining for the sounds of worsening weather.

When we woke the next morning, we had to shake off a fresh layer of snow on our sleeping bags. The ridge we intended to climb was now encased in snow and ice and we were engulfed in a winter storm. With few words between the team, we knew that we were going to “fail to the top.” Over 14 hours, we navigated the ridge with gloved hands and aluminum crampons strapped to our approach shoes, each taking our block of leads to push the rope higher up the ridge. We made it to the top and back down safely, but what should have been an easy alpine rock adventure turned in to a tough three-day ascent.

As we made our way back home to Squamish, it became apparent to me that on Serra Two, I’d tapped into an inner strength I didn’t know I possessed to get through that storm. It took several more mountain adventures before I finally drew the connection between the internal strength and resilience I’d identified in myself through climbing, and how to translate that power to my life outside the mountains.



Several years after the Waddington Range climb, a challenging life experience forced my hand, so to speak, and I dug deep to tap into my personal strength – not to climb a mountain this time, but to navigate the valley of my present life circumstance. Despite the theoretical storm engulfing me – I watched helplessly at the life I’d built for myself crumble at my feet – I had never believed in myself so firmly.

Climbing is often referred to as a selfish sport, and I agree with that sentiment to a degree, but without climbing I don’t know if I would have arrived at the place where I believe so whole-heartedly in my ability to endure, thrive and put my head down to push through difficult times. For this reason, I have purposefully sought out ways to share with other women what climbing has taught me.

Over the last two years I’ve been afforded incredible opportunities to participate in the lives of women both inside and outside the climbing community. There was the MEC-sponsored “Send with Sarah” event at the 2016 Banff Mountain Film and Book Festival. On the final day of the festival, MEC brought together 16 women to participate in a climbing clinic, enjoy Sunday brunch at the festival venue, and attend a panel discussion featuring notable female adventurers. The purpose of the day couldn’t have been solidified any better when one of the most accomplished female rock climbers of the 21st century, Lynn Hill, made a surprise appearance during our clinic. Lynn imparted meaningful advice about surrounding ourselves with other women who can share in our passion for outdoor adventure.



More recently, I was asked to co-facilitate the Minerva Foundation for BC Women’s Learning to Lead™ program. Now in it’s seventh year, the program brings together fifty 16-year-old girls from across the province to develop and enhance their leadership skills both personally and within their respective communities. That weekend, I left exhausted from trying to keep up with 16 year olds, but also revitalized as I’d witnessed the transformation in these young women as they discovered their own internal power and resilience.



Finally, and a major aha moment for me, was volunteering with and then working for The Howe Sound Women’s Centre in my hometown of Squamish, BC. After living in Squamish for almost eight years, I’d never taken the time to connect with the community of women beyond my insulated circle of climbers. Squamish is full of women who’ve lived through their own personal challenges and demonstrated a resilience far beyond my own. And in some small ways, I’ve been given the chance to share with women in my home community the power I discovered in myself through climbing, but that I believe resides deep inside all of us.

As women and climbers, we have the unique ability to challenge ourselves mentally all the time and hone the skills of internal fortitude to achieve our climbing goals. But what do we do with these skills beyond just ticking off another project? I encourage you to explore ways to lift up other women and help them uncover just how powerful they are too. Feminism teaches us that women expand, learn and challenge themselves best in the company of other women. Take what climbing has taught you, and spread it to the community of women just outside your door.

*Top photo by Rich Wheater.*



## related articles
- [Record-setting climb: 15-year-old Naomi Prohaska’s Mount Logan summit](/en/article/record-setting-climb-naomi-prohaskas-mount-logan-summit)
- [15 things I wish I knew before I started climbing](/en/article/15-things-i-wish-i-knew-before-i-started-climbing)
- [The gear I love: one pro climber’s essentials](/en/article/the-gear-i-love)



MEC Ambassador Sarah Hart shares how climbing has given her the strength and resilience to face tough personal challenges and adversity.

How to unleash your inner badass | MEC Blog

How to unleash your inner badass

You never know the impact something will have on you until you’ve sat with it for a while. When I decided that I wanted to be the youngest person to summit Canada’s tallest mountain, I didn’t know what to expect, or what it meant. I wanted to be challenged and I knew that having a dream would motivate me. I had no clue how much effort would go into just one training trip, or how many hours I would need to practice avalanche and crevasse rescue. But I also didn’t know how much passion someone could have for something.

As I began to learn about mountaineering, I began to love it. Every trip I took with my ACMG mountain guide father, I learned something new – how to prevent and treat blisters, what worked for me, that you can sunburn the inside of your nose, tongue and eyes. Beginning to learn and understand the fundamentals of mountaineering also taught me so much about myself; I know that to make myself happy and clear my mind, I need the mountains. I know I can set my mind to accomplishing something others might call insane and do it, and that is so encouraging. Training to climb Mount Logan set me out on so many incredible adventures that I wouldn’t have done if I weren’t preparing for it.

As my departure for the Yukon grew closer, I became more and more nervous, but more and more excited. And, most importantly, I felt more and more supported. I was being cheered on by my family, friends, friends of friends, total strangers and amazing companies like MEC, Peak Performance, Nomad Nutrition and Mountain Berry Landscaping. Without the people that inspired and helped me, I never would have seen Mount Logan.

On the flight to basecamp, I was so grateful to be where I was. Just seeing Mount Logan was incredible. The size of it is incomparable to any of the mountains I’ve seen before. Landing on the Quintino Sella Glacier, I was so ready to start moving up this beast of a mountain.

With each day in Kluane National Park and Reserve, I was pushed further and further. The days became harder as the nights became colder. For most of the trip, every step uphill was an elevation record for me. The effects of altitude – headaches, nausea, loss of appetite, shortness of breath and overall tiredness – were new to me, but almost everyone experiences it. Most of our camps brought on some altitude sickness, but that was overshadowed by the joy I felt in making it that much further up the mountain.



Every step I took was bringing me closer to realizing my dream. As the climbs between camps grew steadily harder, the views became more rewarding. We had views of the slanting King Peak (Canada’s fourth-highest mountain), an incredible mass that made us feel so small. The sight of Mount Saint Elias, however, was by far the most astonishing of the expedition. Gazing out and seeing nothing but snow, ice and rock was fascinating. We were truly in the middle of nowhere, although this had all been the centre of my thoughts for so long.



I’d thought about Mount Logan every day for two years. I had imagined the route and camps countless times, and memorized maps of the mountain. I thought about the view from the top so much it took away from my GPA. When the time came to actually live out the month I’d spent so long preparing for, it was crazy. I couldn’t believe where I was most of the time. I couldn’t comprehend that I was living my dream or that it wasn’t a dream anymore, it was my reality.

Standing on top of Canada is possibly the hardest moment of my life to describe. I was in such awe and disbelief of where I was, I couldn’t grasp that I wasn’t asleep or just imagining it. I was the highest person in Canada and the youngest person to have ever been there. I was, in that moment, who I had been aspiring to be for 25 months.

After I summited, I didn’t have the sense of completion I had expected. I was still just a girl who wanted to spend as much time as possible in the mountains. Having completed my goal didn’t mean I was finished; it wasn’t just another thing to tick off a list and then move on from, it was something to build on. Our expedition in the Saint Elias range cemented my need for and love of mountaineering.



In the time that has passed since I left the Yukon, I’ve thought about the mountains a lot. I have yearned for the calmness of the ice and the sense of peace in my soul. I have craved the views of surrounding peaks, and looking back to see how far I’ve climbed. I know having goals will push me to become a better mountaineer and a better person, and I get why it seems inspiring. Yet, being able to fully enjoy the company of rock and snow is something much deeper than being the youngest, first or fastest to accomplish something. I know now that I prefer the roaring wind at the top of a peak over four walls and a roof. And I know that I wouldn’t be able to stay away from the mountains if I tried.

*Photos by Rich Prohaska.*



### 

*On May 24, 2017, at the age of 15, Naomi Prohaska became the youngest person to summit Mount Logan, Canada’s highest mountain. MEC was proud to support Naomi with an [expedition grant](/en/explore/expedition-support) as well as outfit her with [ski boots](/en/products/gear/snowsports-gear/ski-gear/ski-boots/alpine-touring-boots/c/1198), the [Exped Downmat sleeping pad](/en/product/5052-838/Downmat-HL-Winter-Sleeping-Pad), [Ferrosi climbing pants](/en/product/5035-001/Ferrosi-Pants), [hut booties](/en/product/5031-587/Get-Down-Bootie) and an [MEC Outpost Duffle](/en/product/5035-334/Outpost-Duffle) for her record-setting climb. Way to go Naomi!*



Months after her record-setting summit of Mount Logan, 15-year-old climber Naomi Prohaska reflects on her big moments on top of Canada’s biggest mountain.

Record-setting climb: Naomi Prohaska’s Mount Logan summit | MEC Blog

Record-setting climb: Naomi Prohaska’s Mount Logan summit

Thomas arrived in Toronto from Ethiopia as a refugee in February 2017. He was blown away by the size and diversity of the city, but had only stepped foot outside it once in five months. A recent outing to Rouge National Urban Park offered a second escape. “It’s nice to just get outside without the sounds of the city in the background, and this is only the second chance I’ve had so far.”

Thomas had been invited as a part of MEC partner Parkbus’s [NatureLink](https://www.parkbus.ca/naturelink) program, which takes new Canadians and urbanites with transportation barriers to outdoor destinations. [Parkbus](https://www.parkbus.ca/index) has been shuttling city dwellers to the great outdoors for seven years now. Founders Alex Berlyand and Boris Issaev have taken passengers to Algonquin, Killarney, Elora Gorge and Grundy Lake Provincial Park. When they heard about Parks Canada’s development of Rouge Park, the country’s first ever Urban National Park (categorized as such due to its proximity to Toronto), they knew it was a great opportunity for their NatureLink initiative.

The program was coined by Parkbus ambassador Julia Bitan and kicked off in winter 2016, when the crew took a group of Syrian refugees to Arrowhead National Park. For many Syrians, it was the first time they’d seen snow. This year’s trip to Rouge Park was a little closer to home, but coming in at more than 21 times the size of New York’s Central Park, it still feels a world away.

This outing also coincided with the [Rouge National Urban Park Flagship BioBlitz event](http://www.ontariobioblitz.ca/rouge-national-urban-park-flagship-bioblitz.html) in June. BioBlitz is *the*place to be for nature lovers, those into classifying organisms (taxonomic experts) and citizen scientists. Everyone was treated to a unique day outside observing the area’s flora and fauna.



The day’s activities included scouting for nesting turtles on a marshy nature walk, meeting falcons and partaking in some wall climbing – far from average for those who had yet to step foot outside the city limits. “I have always been an outdoor enthusiast,” says Boris, “but my family and I lived in Toronto for seven years before I was able to buy a car and start exploring.”



Boris knows firsthand how few transit connections there are to outdoor areas, especially if you live downtown. “From personal experience, I can say that new Canadians are unfortunately one group for whom opportunities like this are few and far between.”

At NatureLink’s core is relief from the frenetic energy that can accompany moving to a city – solace and solitude for those unaccustomed to city life, plus a chance to play outdoors and relax in their new home.



“This whole thing is just such a great gift to Canada and to the Greater Toronto Area for Canada’s sesquicentennial,” shares Omar McDadi, external relations manager for Rouge Park. “To be able to bring so many people from so many different backgrounds right across the economic spectrum to explore here… we’re stoked about it. It’s awesome.”

*Photos by Danielle Marr*



Parkbus introduces NatureLink, a new transit program that removes barriers to getting more and new Canadians outside.

NatureLink: Connecting newcomers to nature | MEC Blog

NatureLink: Connecting newcomers to nature

*The passionate staff we have in our stores is part of what sets MEC apart. Running experts like Matthew Travaglini, a staff member in our MEC Calgary store, have helped programs like the MEC run crew and running clinics come to life.*

*His love for running has helped shape an exciting and inspiring lifestyle, which includes being crowned the men’s 2017 Canadian Mountain Running champion earlier this year. Since then, he’s been invited to participate in the World Mountain Running Championships in Italy, and we wanted to catch up with him before he left – and to wish him good luck!*

**How are you feeling about the upcoming World Mountain Running Champs?**

Excited! This will be my first international competition and that part’s a little nerve-racking. But with the way my training has been going, I feel ready to compete and am excited to run against the top mountain runners in the world.



**Why did you start running?**

I started running because it was a way to get in shape to play soccer. When I didn’t make the final cut for my high school soccer team, running for the track team was a happy second choice. Looking back, I don’t think that I understood how important getting cut from that team would end up being in my life. I chose to run competitively because the more I ran, the more I enjoyed it and the more I wanted to get better at it.



**How did you get into mountain running?**

I started mountain running last year when I moved to Calgary. Fellow MEC staffer Josh convinced me that this would be something fun. With what felt like a near death experience on my first mountain run – like any logical person – I was hooked. Since then, I’ve headed out to the mountains more frequently because there’s nowhere else you can experience the feeling of running straight uphill for 5km and still not be able to see the top.



**How has working at MEC inspired you to run?**

Being surrounded by active staff and members is definitely part of where I get my motivation to run from. Whether it’s sharing commuting stories or comparing Strava segments, working with and talking to so many people who are passionate about the outdoors and being fit is amazing, and is one of my favourite parts of my job.



**How do you get most of your running in?**

If I’m not going to the mountains for a run, a lot of my weekly mileage comes from my runs to and from work. Other than limiting factors (like an injury or going on a training course for work that involves bringing gear) I’ve run every single day to work. My route is about 8.5km away from the store, and it takes me through some amazing neighbourhoods and parks looking out over the city. It’s a really cool way to start the day seeing the sun coming up over the city skyline.

Depending on where I’m at in my training, I’ll add a few kilometres before or after work or will [sneak in a tempo](/en/article/be-a-better-runner-get-the-tempo-run-101) if I’m “running” late. The hardest, but most rewarding, is when I’m able to do a workout after a day at work.



**What kind of running events do you help with at MEC Calgary?**

The MEC Calgary run crew and the learn to run clinics have been a cool part of the work I do with MEC. My summer racing schedule makes it a little more difficult to go to the Saturday meet-ups because that’s typically the day that races happen. But I’ve been able to help with running clinics we offer and get to see the amount of effort these first-time runners are putting in to achieve their goals.

The free Saturday morning run group is super cool. We meet at the store and head down to the river for a run and then hit up the local coffee shop after. Recently, I’ve also been able to do some presentations at our race series package pick-ups where I give a 45-minute talk on race preparation.



**What’s your favourite part about running?**

I don’t know if I have one thing that I can pinpoint as my absolute favourite part. If I did, it would probably have to be the people I’ve met or the places I’ve been able to go to because of running. Almost all the people I’m closest with have come through running (minus a few, and those are ones who I share a passion for the outdoors with).

On a deeper level, I will say that the solitude and grandness of mountain running is something I have never experienced before. There are points when you’re breathing so heavily and your heart is pumping so loudly that you can barely hear what’s going on around you. The sound of only your heartbeat and breath and the sight of the Rockies is an extraordinary experience.

*Have a great trip, Matthew! We’ll be cheering for you at the World Mountain Running Championships. If you’re interested in trying trail running, check out our [beginner trail running tips](/en/article/how-to-start-trail-running-tips-for-road-runners).*

*Top photo: Josh Denison ([@joshsonofdenis](https://www.instagram.com/joshsonofdenis/))*



Meet the 2017 Canadian Mountain Running champion from Calgary.

MEC staffer spotlight: Matthew Travaglini | MEC Blog

MEC staffer spotlight: Matthew Travaglini

*We love that you love getting outside. That’s why we’re profiling inspiring members across Canada who connect with their communities through active outdoor lifestyles.*

Member: Melody Markle
Member since: 2007
Activities: mountain biking, camping, hiking

**Tell us about yourself. How do you like to get outside?**

I am Algonquin Anishinaabe-kwe and grew up in Algonquin Anishinaabe traditional territory in Ontario. I spent many summer seasons camping, fishing with my brother, playing in swamps to catch turtles and stargazing into the night sky. I was fortunate at an early age to have my mother sprinkle seeds of culture in me and around the importance of being First Nation. I often give thanks to her for instilling my pride to be loud and proud of my motherline.

During my adult years I moved to Toronto and attended Ryerson University. I also started spin classes with the goal of building my stamina and cardio levels for my move to BC.

**What was your first introduction to mountain biking?**

The summer of 2007 was full of endless trail adventures. I started riding with the Cumberland Ladies Ride Group. My first day of biking in Courtenay, BC, was a ride to remember. I borrowed a large downhill bike from the guys and threw my helmet on with hopes of not crashing. It was a short-lived dream – I ended up going over the handlebars five times during our ride on Tomato Creek. I even had my first panic attack during the climb on the logging road.



**What do you like about mountain biking? What’s changed for you since you started?**

I love the personal transformation, from increased confidence to leading a healthier lifestyle. I spent a lot of time in urban settings where trails are harder to find, and my health wasn’t a priority. It wasn’t until my first trail ride that I realized how much exercise was involved. I began to train four times a week on local group rides. I loved how supportive the riders were, and the weekly outings settled my anxiety around venturing off on my own in the forest.

I began to ride downhill and XC and built up my cardio to handle two-hour rides without being too exhausted. Now I’m learning to ride Kamloops terrain, which is primarily singletrack enduro, and I’m beginning to love the climb. I’m riding with intermediate to advanced riders now too, and enjoy how they encourage me to push myself. I love setting goals and watching the progress with a group or recording my time on [Strava](https://www.strava.com/athletes/21213135).

**How did you get involved with the Aboriginal Youth Mountain Biking Program?**

I was connected to [Patrick Lucas](http://vancouversun.com/news/local-news/mountain-biking-helps-put-b-c-first-nations-youth-on-a-positive-path) and the [AYMBP](http://www.aymbp.ca/home.html) through a friend who works with the Aboriginal Sport and Recreation Collective. She suggested we meet to chat about our love for mountain biking and engaging the Aboriginal community. After a few rides and conversations we created a video about how I connect to the territory when I’m riding the trails. I guess I consider myself a role model when riding because there are so many other elements I incorporate when pushing my pedals. Presently, I volunteer my time with various groups from surrounding communities if they need additional help with group rides.



Melody2015



**How is mountain biking a healing tool for you?**

I strongly believe in muscle and blood memory as a framework when decolonizing my body. I practice this by looking after my health holistically. There are many layers to tend to: mental, physical, emotional and spiritual. I strive to maintain balance in all the elements that make up a whole and assist me with my biking performance. This is how I work through the impacts of colonization and continue to heal myself from the effects of what happened to Indigenous people.

**Like Anishinaabe Aki, the traditional territories of the majority of Nations here in BC are also unceded. Does this impact how and where you ride in BC?**

I love to ride anywhere that good people have been involved with the trail building. I believe we don’t own the trails as this is Mother Earth that we all share. I’m also aware and understand that I am a guest here in BC, I respect the land and support the surrounding Bands when we defend land from future developers. I feel very honoured when I’m invited by a community member to ride in their territory and often chat about the history of the people and celebrate how biking has brought families together. I’m stoked that First Nation communities are becoming part of the trail building process and rebuilding their communities in healthy ways.

**What does the mountain bike community need to know about where they ride?**

I think everyone in the biking industry should be aware of the traditional territories their bike races take place in and acknowledge the original peoples that have resided for thousands of years. Also, maybe in the future, when trail building happens, involve the community and consult with them about Indigenizing the trail names. Incorporate medicine rides that teach people about the plants they are riding into.



**Do you see mountain biking as something that helps you connect with the land?**

When I’m riding my bike, I’m reminded of the all the plant and medicine diversity that is utilized to heal. As I ride through the trails, I’m mindful that Mother Earth has all the answers for me when I’m encountering a complex decision. Mountain biking always takes me far into beautiful backcountry that is full of plants, all of which have a role to play when we talk about holistic health with Indigenous people.

For example, while riding in Kamloops – the traditional territory of the Secwepemc people – I noted the sage that has been planted on the hillside for thousands of years. I always stop and reflect on the use of these plants and others by the Secwepemc people for food, medicine, technology and ceremonies. Around spring time, the smell of sage reminds me to clear my mind when I’m having a difficult time. It is when I’m out on the trails in the hills that I remember how important our traditional foods and medicines are to keep us whole. The only plant that I try and steer clear from would be [stinging nettle](/en/article/how-to-do-anything-spot-dangerous-plants)! It was the worst pain and rash experienced when I rode a trail in Ontario.

**Talk to us about identifying as a woman in sport known for its masculinity.**

I think the sport has evolved within the few years I’ve been biking. There are more women entering the sport at an early stage. More are racing, coaching and guiding. I used to be the only lady riding with men at the park and typically ran into men on the trail. I was lucky to have some patient guys who would wait for me at an intersection and cheer me along the way. I haven’t really noticed a difference of whom I’m riding with. All genders can become competitive for the same reasons and I’m grateful for my riding friends. Actually now that I think of it, I have a lady rider pal who loves to chat during a climb which is really helpful for me to keep on going. I find most men will have smaller conversations but want to focus on their breathing.

Another important trend that has changed quite a bit is women’s biking attire. I remember only owning one pair of riding shorts before and they were men’s. I think within the last 5–10 years, there’s been a lot more of a selection of women’s riding attire.



**On that note, what are your favourite MEC products?**

I have a lot from MEC, including a camping dish set, tent, sleeping bag, water bottles, hydration packs, clothing, and rain jackets to name a few.

**What are your favourite trails to ride?**

Within BC, I think my favourite is 7th Secret in North Vancouver on Mount Fromme. Also Full Nelson in Squamish, Beer Run in Kamloops, and Cupcake and Two-in-a-Juice in Cumberland.

**Tell us about your perfect day outside.**

Loading up my bike and camp gear and venturing to a new mountain. I love exploring with my wheels of health. That post-ride feeling of relief is the satisfaction I strive for on my weekends. I also enjoy good company of friends who share that passion for biking too.

**What is your hope for the future of the mountain biking community?**

I hope there will be more First Nation communities encouraging their people to ride and spend time in the beautiful forests and hills. I hope more young people will give biking a try and keep at it as a hobby.

**Are there bikers you follow or look up to?**

I just started using Strava and have been following my friend Carolyn, a Kamloops local. She’s a mother as well and reminds me to encourage my little ones to ride once I start a family. She’s also very kind and encouraging when we do weekly rides.



Meet MEC member Melody Markle, an avid mountain biker from Long Point (Winneway) First Nation who is all about trailblazing to mino-pimadiziwin (the good life).

MEC member spotlight: Melody Markle | MEC Blog

MEC member spotlight: Melody Markle

Since the Fundy Footpath (FFP) opened in 1994, people have underestimated its difficulty and duration, which has resulted in tougher-than-anticipated hikes and expensive search and rescue operations. We wanted to make some videos to highlight the safety precautions needed to hike the FFP. But who would ever watch a safety video about hiking? Enter our main character, Bruce “should-I-say-my-last-name” Persaud and our *Surviving the Fundy Footpath* films. Bruce grew up in Toronto and had just moved to New Brunswick from Montreal when we met him. When he agreed to have his first serious hike filmed, we knew we had our hook.

These films are a must-watch before you head out on a challenging hike. Bruce illustrates that you don’t need to be a hardcore backpacker to complete the FFP, but you do need some good knowledge before you head out, and helpful advice from experienced hikers can make a huge difference when you’re a beginner backpacker.

### Episode 1: Is He Ready?


Episode 1: Is He Ready? (CENSORED)



##### What is the Fundy Footpath?
Where the resistant igneous rock of the Caledonia Highlands drops off into the mega-tidal Bay of Fundy in Southeastern New Brunswick, you’ll find the treacherous Fundy Footpath. It’s over 60km long, crosses nearly 20 watercourses and traverses very steep terrain that culminates in over 4000m of elevation gain (and an equal amount of loss).

##### What is the FFP’s reputation?
It’s rocky, rooted and riddled with steep elevation changes. Backpackers are lured by the promise of a one-of-a-kind coastal experience and an intimate encounter with the great Fundy tides, but it’s also a raw wilderness experience.

### Episode 2: Many of Firsts


Episode 2: Many of Firsts (CENSORED)



##### What are some misconceptions about the footpath?
Many hikers expect the FFP to be flatter, smoother, more forgiving and faster to complete. These misconceptions can lead to people pushing themselves too hard, too fast or to trying to take short-cuts, resulting in injuries or just a bad time.

### Episode 3: Threading the Eye of the Needle


Episode 3: Threading the Eye of the Needle (CENSORED)



##### Where should beginner hikers start before tackling the footpath?
Train by putting some weight on your back and finding some elevation to climb and descend. Anything technical with tricky footing is good practice and using trekking poles will be very helpful, especially on steep downhills. Pole placement can seem complicated at first, as each step is one more task for your brain.

##### What does hiker preparedness mean?
Here are some things you’ll need to be prepared:

1. Mental toughness: be ready for the challenge and recognize when you’re tired and not thinking clearly. Not everything will go according to plan.
1. Physical conditioning is a key preparation activity; learn some good stretches to reduce soreness.
1. Proper gear choices and packing covers a lot of things, from boots, backpacks and clothing to shelters, personal hygiene and kitchen equipment. Take only what you need and make your pack as light as possible. Make a list of essentials.
1. High calorie, lightweight food is key. Have a plan to treat or filter your water and remember to keep drinking; dehydration leads to all kinds of physical problems.
1. Tell people where you’re going and when you’ll be done. Register before beginning the FFP on either end so help knows your hiking agenda. Take a first-aid kit, map of the trail, guide book, tide chart and a cell phone/GPS. Cell coverage is very thin, so don’t depend on it. If you must call 911, be ready to give them detailed information on your exact location and the nature of your situation.

### Episode 4: Hitting the Wall


Episode 4: Hitting the Wall (CENSORED)



##### What do you want people to know about the footpath?
The mega-tides of the Bay of Fundy are impressive along the trail and vary by as much as 11.4m (nearly four storeys). Tide level is vitally important here, as it can close routes, limit your travel, and even trap you on the cliffs when exploring the beach. The wrack line – a line of dead seaweed and driftwood – shows the reach of the tide, making it a safety line of sorts. Camp above it and don’t lose track of the tide while you’re exploring.

### Episode 5: Becoming a Hiker


Episode 5: Becoming a Hiker (CENSORED)



##### What are some instances of things going awry on the footpath?
The example in “Episode 5: Becoming a Hiker” is one of the best. Two men hiking the FFP were worried they wouldn’t get out on time because the trail was taking longer than expected and decided to take an intertidal short cut. With darkness falling, they likely panicked and tried to climb up the cliff back to the trail, only to become stuck. An expensive helicopter rescue saved them. Another time, a hiker nearly froze to death in the winter, while one called for rescue due to sore knees, only to be found later, living it up on the beach.

##### What else do you want people to know?
If you’re an experienced hiker, then help others get out and take on outdoor challenges. Everyone should spend time in the wilderness and it is up to others with experience to help them along, whether through guiding, teaching or just encouraging them. In an urbanizing landscape we must all stay connected to nature and gain experiences that will allow us to understand the importance of conservation.

### Episode 6: Some Serious Chafing Going On


Episode 6: Some Serious Chafing Going On (CENSORED)

### 

*MEC was proud to provide a grant to the Fundy Biosphere Reserve, and ultimately help Ben Phillips, Alonzo Leger and Marc Leger lead Bruce Persaud along the Fundy Footpath safely while Craig Norris captured each moment. Congratulations to Bruce for surviving the FFP! Time to pick up some [real water shoes](/en/gender/men%27s/products/footwear/sandals/water-sandals/c/1801).*

*Photos by Craig Norris.*



Follow Toronto-born first-time camper Bruce Persaud as he attempts to complete the Fundy Footpath, one of Canada’s toughest multi-day hikes.

Surviving the Fundy Footpath | MEC Blog

Surviving the Fundy Footpath

Thank you for being our witnesses.

Of every second wind, kilometre crushed, shin iced, knee braced. Of every fuel up and cool down. Of every event entered. Of every challenge accepted.

To our friends and family who act as our tireless supporters and motivators on the sidelines of any race or event – thank you for being there to wish us luck before the starting pistol and to greet our sweaty, shaky selves at the finish line.

A race is a chance to set new records, to beat personal times and to prove to yourself that you can always be a better athlete. But it’s also a chance to take part in a larger event, to experience a collective environment that celebrates human tenacity and perseverance. Without loyal cheerers equipped with cold water, inspiring words and silly signs, these races wouldn’t be the same.



Thank you to our cheerers for enduring our whines about every ache and pain, for forgiving us for not coming out on weekends because we had to wake up [early to train](/en/article/be-a-better-runner-get-the-tempo-run-101). Thanks for being our champions, for massaging our calves (and, at times, our egos); thanks for every moment that you spent out in the cold, applauding our feats, without complaint.

We get the bibs, and sometimes even medals, but you deserve credit, too – for getting up early and braving the weather with us, for being prepared with snacks in your pockets and enough energy and cheer to motivate our next strides. While we may not be able to stop to thank you at the time, never underestimate how much a familiar face or word of encouragement helps push us through a difficult stretch.

Thank you for telling us to go for it, whether we faced muddied trails or sun-warmed streets, because you always believed that we would cross the finish line. The best supporters are those who tell us to get outside because they can see when we need them to; because they can’t wait to be there, cheering our names at the finish line, showing us how proud they are.



Whether we’re at the front of the crowd or dragging behind, whether it’s our first race or our twentieth, you turning up gives us something to run for.

Thanks for being there to meet us.

Thanks to our cheerers – cheers to you.

*Have a dedicated cheerer in your life? Share this post with them to say thanks for all their support, high-fives and hugs at the finish line.*



Behind every runner, there’s a high-five, hug and funny sign that keeps them going. This one goes out to the friends, family and cheerers on the sidelines.

Cheers to the cheerers

It’s no secret that running crews and training clubs are basically a gold mine of motivation, expertise and new friendships, just waiting to be tapped. But when you find *your*club – the one that hits all your checkboxes for fitness and support – life-altering things can happen. Just ask twin sisters Julie and Andrea Kocsis, members of the Barrie, Ontario-based triathlon club the [Barrie Baydogs](https://www.barrietriathlonclub.com/), who went from just walking to finishing multiple marathons.

“With the Baydogs, whatever you start, you finish together,” notes Julie. “With hill training, everyone waited at the top, you all high-fived each other and then ran down together. Even if you were the slower runner, you never felt like people were waiting for you or that you were left behind. They include everybody. You don’t feel like an outsider or that you’re slowing anyone down.”

That sense of family and belonging is something that was a massive motivation for the pair, who Andrea says were brutally teased throughout school. While they’ve always been each other’s biggest supporters – they start and finish races together, holding their hands triumphantly in the air as they cross the finish line – they really got the welcome and community encouragement they were looking for through the [Baydogs mentoring program](https://www.barrietriathlonclub.com/mentoring).



“When we went to the mentor training, they really welcomed us with open arms,” recalls Julie. “Everyone there was of all different physical abilities and were very sociable.”

“It was important for us to join a club that understands the importance of supporting each other and finishing together,” adds Andrea. “They built up our self confidence and our mental strength. It’s not ‘I can’t do anything’ anymore, it’s ‘I can do it, and if I believe in myself anything is possible.’”

The twins have made massive strides in their fitness levels over the years. They each weighed over 200lb. (91kg) when they started with walking in university. Over time, they decided to pick up the pace by running to a neighbourhood landmark, like a light post, then running a kilometre and so on. Eventually, they set a goal to finish a marathon before graduation. Not only did they hit their goal, but they’ve lost over 120lb. (54kg) between them and now exercise regularly, greatly improving their overall health.

> “When you’re in a group, if you’re suffering, you’re all suffering together, so you don’t feel like it’s that bad.”
>
Andrea’s knee injury was the key factor in joining the Baydogs. A friend in their run club suggested they try triathlons, so they bought bikes and joined up. “The number one thing I’ve gotten out of joining the group is knowledge,” says Julie.

These days, the twins welcome a bit of sweaty stress. They completed the Disney Dopey Challenge in 2015, which sandwiches together four days of back-to-back running, starting with a 5K, then a 10K, half marathon, and full marathon, for a grand total of 78.2km. “We’ve probably done a good 10 half marathons and four full marathons,” estimates Andrea. “We have a half coming up in May, and we started working with a coach that we met through the Baydogs to help us with our running. We’ve PB’d the last three races we’ve been in. The big goal for us is a full Ironman in August.”



The successes haven’t been without their interruptions either – last year Andrea faced a rugby injury and had to take the summer off. “That was really tough for me, as a twin. Every day I’d see my sister out and wish I could train. But it allowed me to grow mentally stronger.”

“It was tough for me too,” echoes Julie. “I never thought I’d be starting or finishing the half Ironman without my sister on the line. I found the run particularly difficult. That’s when Andrea is usually yelling at me ‘it’s all in your mind! Just keep going, one foot in front of the other’! Or we start singing to each other. Last summer our go-to was ‘Fight Song’ by Rachel Platten.” Since Andrea couldn’t join Julie for the Muskoka 70.3, she wrote different song lyrics on the handlebars of Julie’s bike.

If they could impart one lesson, they hope people know that they are capable of more that they give themselves credit for.

> “The only thing that’s stopping you is you, putting up the wall. Just put your heart into it. Speed doesn’t matter,” they say.
>
“There’s that quote about how the slowest person is still faster than the person sitting on the couch, so no matter your physical ability, just get out and try. You see so much more of the world when you’re out running.”

*MEC is proud to support Julie and Andrea’s efforts through the Community Contributions program via a grant to the Barrie Baydogs, which helps fund their mentoring program. Good luck on your Ironman!*



Get seriously inspired by Barrie Baydogs club members and twin sisters Julie and Andrea as they chronicle over 120lb. lost and 20 races crushed.

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