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Main Boards => General Walking Discussion => Topic started by: myxpyr on 20:33:29, 26/05/19

Title: Walking Solo
Post by: myxpyr on 20:33:29, 26/05/19
How many forum members walk solo? Curious to know. I've been walking since I was a nipper and probably 80% of that has been solo. Don't get me wrong, I don't consider myself either lonely or a loner and there was a time relatively recently when I walked with a mate but we've drifted apart.
I do have an aversion to walking in a biggish group which is why I don't get involved with the Ramblers. I find things are a bit too regimented what with leaders, back markers, risk assessments and the like. To me that sort of approach is alien to the ethos of walking and trekking. Walking solo I'm answerable to nobody but myself. The only person who has any responsibility for me is ME. It gives me freedom and independence.
Interested to hear the views of others.
That said, I would not be averse to walking again with ONE mate but I feel I would have to know that we could rub along together and enjoy a pint and a laugh in the pub afterwards. ;)
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: Bigfoot_Mike on 20:42:23, 26/05/19
A lot of my walking is solo, but sometimes I will walk with someone else or a small group. Bigger groups can be frustrating due to the differing speeds and stamina of the group members. I did spend 2 weeks hiking by myself in the Alps. Some times I would walk part of a day with someone I met on the trail.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: myxpyr on 20:46:14, 26/05/19
A lot of my walking is solo, but sometimes I will walk with someone else or a small group. Bigger groups can be frustrating due to the differing speeds and stamina of the group members. I did spend 2 weeks hiking by myself in the Alps. Some times I would walk part of a day with someone I met on the trail.
We seem to be two of a kind ;D All my walking in the Pyrenees has been solo and two years ago I did a partial Tour du Mont Blanc, again solo. The fun is in meeting different people en route and in the gites and refuges.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: Owen on 21:02:14, 26/05/19
Nearly all my walks are solo, in the past I did walk with others but I much prefer being on my own. I also really prefer to walk in very remote areas such as the Highlands, I actually moved here from England to be nearer to the mountains. In this respect Lapland is even better, there I can walk for weeks and see hardly anyone.


I'm not antisocial, I have lots of friends and get along well with people. I just like my own company.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: Dovegirl on 21:26:05, 26/05/19
I'm a solo walker from choice.  I prefer choosing where and when to walk and being able to stop when I want to. I can take in the landscape more when I'm on my own and I love the peace and quiet and solitude. For me, a feeling of freedom is one of the most important aspects of walking.

Occasionally I walk with one or two others and it's very enjoyable but I feel it's more about enjoying their company than about the walk itself. Although I love socialising with friends, I'm a loner when it comes to walking, but not lonely.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: Kukkudrill on 21:26:53, 26/05/19
My annual long-distance walk is solo. Prefer it that way. When you walk solo, you focus much more on your surroundings.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: richardh1905 on 21:32:13, 26/05/19

I like solo walking too, whether it be out for a few miles with the dog, or a wild camp in the Caringorms.


Having said that, I do enjoy walking  with family or good friends too, but I enjoy the feeling of being totally self reliant and in control when out in the wilds.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: taxino8 on 21:34:48, 26/05/19
I prefer to walk on my own, I can go where I want, at whatever pace I want, stop and start when I want, just so much more relaxing than being with someone else.
Occasionally I walk with a mate, he’s off like a greyhound and I don’t like the rush.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: Ralph on 21:51:12, 26/05/19
I'm a solo walker from choice.  I prefer choosing where and when to walk and being able to stop when I want to. I can take in the landscape more when I'm on my own and I love the peace and quiet and solitude. For me, a feeling of freedom is one of the most important aspects of walking.
I could not agree more, my thoughts entirely, very well put.
Occasionally I walk with one or two others and it's very enjoyable but I feel it's more about enjoying their company than about the walk itself. Although I love socialising with friends, I'm a loner when it comes to walking, but not lonely.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: ninthace on 22:08:36, 26/05/19
I used to walk alone almost, but not entirely, exclusively and I enjoyed the solitude and the ability to go where I wanted at the pace I wanted.  I suppose in that in some ways it was a selfish experience as I did not have to make allowances for other people.  On the downside, there was no-one to share the experience with.
Three years ago my wife started to do one or two walks a week with me.  When we first started to walk together, I found her pace uphill slow and frustrating and she did not like to walk as far as fast as me, so I still did solo walks to "scratch the itch".  As time has gone on, she has got fitter and faster and I have got slower and less fit as a result of different leg problems, probably brought on by too much walking too often.  The net result is that now we have meshed together to the point where we always walk together.  We still end up separated on climbs but equally I sometimes get left behind on descents so it sort of balances out.  We don't talk much during the walk but it is surprising how often we will both start on the same subject at the same time. 
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: jontea on 22:16:56, 26/05/19
I actually like both, solo and in the company of a small group with a similar fitness to myself.


I do like my own company, and enjoy the freedom to control the whole days walking, from pace, route, when to stop and when to push on again. Taking in the surroundings without distraction or the thought of holding someone up.


However, there is also a lot to be said for walking in good company. That doesn't mean chatting constantly, or even walking in a tight group, unaware of your surroundings, but able to share some fantastic vistas and experiences sometimes in a comfortable silence. Share a conversation or banter in a summit shelter, and laugh over a pint at the end of a tough day.


Both very different experiences, but I do enjoy each for their own qualities.  O0






Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: fit old bird on 22:45:42, 26/05/19
Another solo walker here. I like the freedom to choose the route, choose the distance, and choose how long to stay out for. I am happy with my own company having lived alone since I was 18.


I did go out a few times with two walking buddies, both male, but they walked so fast, chatted together, and I felt like I was a spare part. I have met up with a female friend a couple of times, that was good because we get on really well. We will probably do it again, one walk every couple of months or so is fine for both of us.


ilona
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: jimbob on 22:46:59, 26/05/19
 O0 For solo. I tend to be an ambler , so think I would frustrate others who walk faster than me and who don't get distracted by maps (if I see something close by that seems interesting,  then I usually make a detour to see what it is). I stop when I want to stop and eat when I want to eat etc.
But I truly enjoy plodding along chatting to other walkers when our paths coincide and frequently welcome their conversation and company.

Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: sussamb on 06:49:16, 27/05/19
Always walked solo, so rather apprehensive about my upcoming C2C as I was persuaded by a friend to take him with me. Time will tell if that was a good idea  ;D
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: strawy on 08:54:18, 27/05/19
I always go solo, i,m so used to it now i dont think i can or even want to change.I think walking solo probably makes you concentrate more on any difficult sections you encounter(no-one to help/save you).
One side effect is advanced "Doolittle,s Syndrome",constantly talking to the animals,the sheep look at me as if i,m nuts  :D
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: pdstsp on 09:10:37, 27/05/19
Doolittle syndrome is an excellent name!!


I mostly walk alone for the reasons set out by many members above, and I love it.  I have two good friends who I walk with on occasion, which I enjoy as we are well suited in terms of experience and speed.


I have just spent 11 days walking the C2C with one of these friends and two other less experienced friends.  I was expecting this to be quite difficult, but everyone seemed to adjust well.  We found ourselves chatting at times, strung out for periods and then coming back together, generally when navigation was needed.  I was surprised how natural it felt.


Having said that, I don't think I'd like an organised group. Too much structure for me.

Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: fit old bird on 09:30:43, 27/05/19
O0 For solo. I tend to be an ambler , so think I would frustrate others who walk faster than me and who don't get distracted by maps (if I see something close by that seems interesting,  then I usually make a detour to see what it is). I stop when I want to stop and eat when I want to eat etc.
But I truly enjoy plodding along chatting to other walkers when our paths coincide and frequently welcome their conversation and company.


This is a bit like me. I like solitude, but I can also be a chatter box. I will talk to complete strangers if I feel like talking, or quickly move on if I don't.


I need to eat when my stomach tells me to, if I don't I feel wobbly. I need several short eats, rather than one lunch break half way through the day. If I find a nice spot to sit down I take ten minutes and have a nibble and a drink.


If I see something which might look interesting on the map, I will turn off and take a look at it. If I see a sign which might reveal something interesting, curiosity will take me there.


ilona
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: astaman on 09:41:55, 27/05/19
Mostly I walk on my own but do occasional day walks with a friend. All my longer multi-day walks have been solo. I tend to walk alone for the range of the reasons that others have given. On your own you don't talk (or not that often I hope) which means you see more wildlife - in Shetland we have lots of otters and you definitely see many more of them on your own. Having said that, I like meeting people along the trail and exchanging notes and tales. On my first West Highland Way walk many, many years ago when I was quite young I walked in parallel with a lovely old chap who was a retired firefighter from Alnwick. We sometimes walked together for a mile or two and had a pint or two in the evening. The kind of really pleasing social encounter that happily modifies my desire for solitude.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: Islandplodder on 10:02:27, 27/05/19

I am becoming converted to solo walking as the years go on.  I have I friend I walk with regularly, but she is younger, slimmer and fitter than I am and we are a bit out of sync at the moment in terms of speed and how much we want to rough it.  So I started going out on my own more, and find I really enjoy it, for all the reasons other people have given.  You meet more people travelling solo, if you are feeling sociable, but you don't have to if you aren't.
The only thing is, I live in a remote area with very poor phone signal, and there are some places I am becoming wary of going alone, as I know it would be a while before I got help if I turned an ankle or worse.  I do try to give an accurate route plan to Mr I.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: alan de enfield on 10:09:49, 27/05/19

The only thing is, I live in a remote area with very poor phone signal, and there are some places I am becoming wary of going alone, as I know it would be a while before I got help if I turned an ankle or worse.  I do try to give an accurate route plan to Mr I.



Have you considered a PLB (Personal Locator Beacon) No phone signal needed.
Works on GPS and sends a signal, via satellite, to the Search & rescue (works worldwide) - Land or Sea.


https://www.marinesuperstore.com/safety-beacons/plb-ais/mcmurdo-fastfind-220-gps-plb?utm_source=google_shopping&utm_medium=pcn&utm_term=99336769&utm_campaign=MSS&gclid=Cj0KCQjwla7nBRDxARIsADll0kDorRlsnLVa_5FA145zX17TYt4tqPMnpbqccTpqpjP659s07lY4dwEaAkhLEALw_wcB




Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: gunwharfman on 10:33:53, 27/05/19
I walk alone and am happy to do so. I've tried walking with others on a single or two days and I can cope with that, good fun as well but for longer walks, it becomes difficult. Two areas of problem, I will either walk faster than a companion, or walk slower than them and knowing that I camp (I wake, get up early and just want to go!) and the companion is still in a B & B, they are not going to show their face for maybe up to two hours later than me, if nothing else they are going to want the breakfast that they have paid for. Kicking my heels waiting until they surface is not a pleasant thought, if I started walking as normal I could be two or three miles ahead of them. For me, the answer would be that we would need to agree that we walk independently to a given destination, then meet up socially, compare notes and so on at the end of the day.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: Patrick1 on 10:42:48, 27/05/19
I walked solo for many years, then when I met my other half and we got married I enjoyed the company of walking together. As children arrived it seemed natural to add them too, and walking as a family group still tends to be my preferred option even now the kids are in their mid to late teens.


However, I've always seemed to take on the role of "walk planner", and as the kids have got older I seem to feel more and more pressure to make sure each walk is better than the last - a more spectacular view, higher peak, better camping spot, within everyone's capabilities, etc. I think this comes from me more than anyone else, but it does make the walking less and less relaxing as I try to make sure its a great experience for everyone involved. Recently I've happened to do a couple of walks solo again, one day walk and one over three days, and was reminded just how relaxing it is walking when you've only yourself to please.


Bottom line is probably that there are different attractions to walking in different combinations, but it did make me think I mustn't forget the pleasures of walking solo (or with just my wife, which I find equally relaxing) rather than in the role of "group leader"!
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: Warbler on 13:45:22, 27/05/19
I walk solo probably 90% of my outings, for all the reasons outlined above. One exception being an annual get together with a small group of friends, which is actually more of a social catch-up with a couple of walks thrown in.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: Slogger on 15:03:29, 27/05/19
I enjoy the freedom of solo walking, no one to make you walk too fast or too slow, make you stop when you'de rather carry on, make you carry on when you'de rather stop, no one to want to change the route or moan about anything, every decision made by yourself with no one to interfere.I do also walk with others, but my pals (as I also used to) bring their competativeness to every walk, being fell, road, trail and ultra runners, myself being 'ex' in all those disciplines. At 73 years I simply cannot keep pace with them any longer and get fed up of them waiting for me, not that I am slow, just that I have lost much of my speed, although the endurance is still there.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: rhiiwn on 15:37:25, 27/05/19
I love walking on my own - it’s one of the only chances I get for everything to truly be quiet around me!! Haha.  ;D 


Life is so hectic that it’s so nice to wake up early one morning, pack my day bag and head out on my own to see some beautiful sights, walk around and take photos/find a spot to sit and admire views (and get some exercise!) for a few hours  :)


I do like getting out in groups from time to time, but with the opportunities that I get for walking out in the Peaks being pretty limited anyway, I like to be a little selfish and head out solo. 😂
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: GnP on 18:35:49, 27/05/19
I have walked with a friend for 30 years and often offloaded my worries to him and also listened  to his trials and tribulations on the way round our walks, which took me out of my own personal space. The last few years however it got to the stage where his offloading about his life detracted from my enjoyment of our walks & I used to take walks on my own. I found that I was enjoying these walks far more and taking in feelings and thoughts  that only a lone traveler can experience...they were always positive and left me in a good mood at the end of the day.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: Bigfoot_Mike on 18:59:59, 27/05/19
I always go solo, i,m so used to it now i dont think i can or even want to change.I think walking solo probably makes you concentrate more on any difficult sections you encounter(no-one to help/save you).
One side effect is advanced "Doolittle,s Syndrome",constantly talking to the animals,the sheep look at me as if i,m nuts  :D
I do the same. I also moo at cows, baa at sheep, bray at donkeys, etc. when I am alone in the car. As I live in a rural area and commute alone into the city for work, my car is often filled with animal noises.  :D
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: BuzyG on 20:51:22, 27/05/19
Another who is happy to walk all day alone.  Though I also enjoy the company of others on a walk.

A comment on the Ramblers.  The group I often walk with, do indeed count the sheep appoint a back marker etc.  But we all know the regular members of the group can look after them selves too. Our walk on Sunday, for example. We started in foul conditions 15 plus two dogs.  By the top of Yes tor, one couple and their dog asked me to let the walk leader know they were heading back.  By High Willhays another two members and the other dog had seen enough thick fog for one day and also headed back. We carried on accross the valley to kitty tor and off down Amocombe hill towards the saddle accross to great Kneeset.  At this point I choose to leave the group and add in an extra 3 mile loop up to Fur tor and Cut hill.   So I simply informed the walk leader of my intentions, mentioned  I might catch them up on the ridge from Hanging Stone hill to Cosdon beacon and turned North into the fog.  Never did catch sight of them again, but no suprise given they don't hang about and visibility was never more than a few hundred yards all day and about 20 yards on the tops. 

Simple honest uncomplecated communication. ;)   Walking with a group need not be a regimented bimble.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: jontea on 22:05:00, 27/05/19
Posting today as a cyclist and not a walker (temporarily) my daughter and I approached a group of about 30 walkers walking in the same direction as us, so tight together they were almost falling over each other. Walking along a narrow but beautiful aqueduct on the Peak Forest canal, which has stunning views out over the River Goyt and farmland below.


As we approached some distance away, I began ringing my bell, its amazing how many walkers fail to respond to this, but shouting to my daughter about anything, just to be heard usually works as plan B, but not in this case.


Finally having come to a complete stand still behind the rather senior group, the guy at the back of the group turns around and see us. He then shouts ”everyone to the left” but only half the group hear this, as most are so absorbed in their own conversations that not only do they not realise we are waiting to pass, but not aware of their surroundings.
As we slowly moved passed the group, we got stuck behind one particular couple chatting away, totally oblivious to the fact most of the group had moved over, leaving the two of us behind them.
They did eventually notice us having almost suffered a heart attack.
We said our thanks to them and cycled on.


But this is how I see big rambling groups, my impression of them is likened to sheep herding. which isn't for me. Small groups or solo.

Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: BuzyG on 22:26:12, 27/05/19
Jontea, your comments so reminded me of what regularlly happens to me when I'm out enjoying the country lanes in my sports car and get stuck behind cyclists.   ;D

Also as written above.  Find the right ramblers group and they are just fine.  O0
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: Bigfoot_Mike on 22:38:33, 27/05/19
Jontea, your comments so reminded me of what regularlly happens to me when I'm out enjoying the country lanes in my sports car and get stuck behind cyclists.   ;D
Also, what I experience with cyclists when travelling to and from work on country roads. The most frustrating (and dangerous) occurrence is the group of 2 or 3 cyclists that keep overtaking each other with no regard whatsoever for what is going on around them - no signals and no looking before suddenly moving out across the road. We also have a large number of organised cycle club events on public roads, often when I am trying to get home in the evening. These can cause chaos.  >:(
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: jontea on 06:36:46, 28/05/19
We also have a large number of organised cycle events on public roads, often when I am trying to get home in the evening. These can cause chaos.  >:(


Stay at home on the 7th July Mike  ;D
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: jontea on 06:40:53, 28/05/19
Jontea, your comments so reminded me of what regularlly happens to me when I'm out enjoying the country lanes in my sports car and get stuck behind cyclists.   ;D


You need to change that little bell for a horn  ;D
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: and101 on 10:10:51, 28/05/19
How many forum members walk solo? Curious to know. I've been walking since I was a nipper and probably 80% of that has been solo. Don't get me wrong, I don't consider myself either lonely or a loner


Personally, I'd say about 1 in 4 of my walks are solo and they tend to be when I go wildcamping. Sometimes it's good to be alone, to take time out, to go at my pace and not worry about conversations etc.


The majority of my non-solo walks are with my wife and it's our opportunity to get away from the kids and their teenage angst and lethargy!
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: pleb on 10:15:16, 28/05/19
Nearly all mine are solo plods too. Did a group walk up Whernside saturday, there were hundreds of peeps there  >:(
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: bipolarbob on 11:34:46, 28/05/19
i nearly always walk alone...i know i shouldn't but i stick music on my earphones and just find myself out there..


did the Black Mountain challenge last Saturday for the Longtown mountain rescue...did 20 miles on my own, just me and my music...and being lapped by the fell runners  :) :) :) ..and faster walkers, squaddies etc etc.....





Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: fit old bird on 19:03:38, 28/05/19
Nearly all mine are solo plods too. Did a group walk up Whernside saturday, there were hundreds of peeps there  >:(


OMG I would have hated that. In fact I would have given up and gone back home.  :(


ilona
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: BuzyG on 20:11:39, 28/05/19
Nearly all mine are solo plods too. Did a group walk up Whernside saturday, there were hundreds of peeps there  >:(


100s I would of wandered off in the other direction.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: Mel on 22:24:37, 28/05/19
Most of my walks are solo. Most of the time I prefer this as I like to mooch and meander and stop and stare and snack when I like. 


Sometimes though, I would like to walk with a small group for the company and conversation and perhaps the morale boost/confidence to tackle something a "bit out of my league" but my generally slow pace and the need to stop briefly and regularly to rest/ease my achilles tendon makes it difficult for me to find a group that is happy to accommodate that.



Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: gary m on 13:04:35, 29/05/19
I will be walking alone tomorrow, probably spend the night out
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: and101 on 13:24:25, 29/05/19

Sometimes though, I would like to walk with a small group for the company and conversation and perhaps the morale boost/confidence to tackle something a "bit out of my league" but my generally slow pace and the need to stop briefly and regularly to rest/ease my achilles tendon makes it difficult for me to find a group that is happy to accommodate that.


Mel, we should walk together. My Achilles has flared up again at the moment so I know how it feels to be travelling slower than I'd like due to the stops. Especially when trying and ease the pain/stretch it out whilst taking in the views!
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: rambling oldie on 16:28:17, 29/05/19
I have the best of both worlds.  For a few years I’ve been leading a U3A (University of the Third Age) rambling group in Hampshire.  I like to spend time on OS Maps planning suitable routes of around 6 miles, then I go out on my own and test one of them, about 2 or 3 weeks before our first Monday routine.  I use map and compass and make sure I can follow the route (yesterday was fun, the footpath signs ran out but after chats with a few sheep in various fields I came back on target.)  I stop to admire views and look at any wildlife that I haven’t scared away,  A few weeks ago i was able to remain absolutely still quite close to a hare as we stared at each other. I also check the smaller scale OS to identify distant points, as I sometimes get questions.  Then I lead a group of around 20, we all know each other and it’s very convivial, finally returning to our starting point which is always a pub, just in time for lunch.   

 
Life is good.   
 :)  
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: Mel on 22:55:49, 29/05/19

Mel, we should walk together. My Achilles has flared up again at the moment so I know how it feels to be travelling slower than I'd like due to the stops. Especially when trying and ease the pain/stretch it out whilst taking in the views!


We should arrange a "Walking Wounded" forum hobble  ;D   I'm sure Bigfoot Mike suffers with his tendon too.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: jimbob on 23:04:52, 29/05/19

We should arrange a "Walking Wounded" forum hobble  ;D   I'm sure Bigfoot Mike suffers with his tendon too.
Would Plantar count?
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: Mel on 23:14:09, 29/05/19
Yep  :D
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: Bigfoot_Mike on 06:41:18, 30/05/19

We should arrange a "Walking Wounded" forum hobble  ;D   I'm sure Bigfoot Mike suffers with his tendon too.
You are correct Mel, although my back is more of a problem at the moment. Walking helps free my back up, but I am wary of being too far from civilisation at the moment in case of a bad attack, when I would struggle to walk at all. That said, if civilisation was at the top of my list, I wouldn’t live in rural Aberdeenshire.  :)
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: Forkbeard on 09:32:47, 31/05/19
How many forum members walk solo? Curious to know. I've been walking since I was a nipper and probably 80% of that has been solo. Don't get me wrong, I don't consider myself either lonely or a loner and there was a time relatively recently when I walked with a mate but we've drifted apart.
I do have an aversion to walking in a biggish group which is why I don't get involved with the Ramblers. I find things are a bit too regimented what with leaders, back markers, risk assessments and the like. To me that sort of approach is alien to the ethos of walking and trekking. Walking solo I'm answerable to nobody but myself. The only person who has any responsibility for me is ME. It gives me freedom and independence.
Interested to hear the views of others.
That said, I would not be averse to walking again with ONE mate but I feel I would have to know that we could rub along together and enjoy a pint and a laugh in the pub afterwards. ;)


Other than taking one of my friends who's got some mental issues out walking, I always go alone. I tried the group thing and really hated it for a number of reasons (actually I didn't mind it so much when the group was smaller). I like the peace and solitude, something that I can't really get in daily life. I also like going at my own pace and stopping when/where I want for a while.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: photonut on 11:16:28, 31/05/19
I mostly walk alone for the reasons set out by many members above, and I love it.  I have two good friends who I walk with on occasion, which I enjoy as we are well suited in terms of experience and speed.


I have just spent 11 days walking the C2C with one of these friends and two other less experienced friends.  I was expecting this to be quite difficult, but everyone seemed to adjust well.  We found ourselves chatting at times, strung out for periods and then coming back together, generally when navigation was needed.  I was surprised how natural it felt.


Having said that, I don't think I'd like an organised group. Too much structure for me.

Pleased to hear your C2C went well Paul  O0


Back to the topic in question....... Like many here I'm a solo walker too.  Mainly because of the freedom to go where you want, when you want without having to discuss with other members of your group.  Having seen my local Ramblers Group I know I could not walk with them... waaaay too slow and far too regimented.


That said, I went on a group meet from here and had a superb day out walking.  Although I probably spent a lot of the walk alone, it was nice when we stopped for breaks to have people to chat with.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: forgotmyoldpassword on 12:34:52, 31/05/19
Small group is fun, especially if they share your ethos about wild spaces and enjoy making the best of it.  That said I'd rather know them to some degree, there is absolutely nothing worse than having a whinger along for the ride who repeatedly has a good moan about how it's all 'so hard' or complains about the route, yet never gives any time or opinions on it prior to setting off.  Also when the weather is truly shocking a small group is more fun than solo, there's a bit of camaraderie in adversity thing going on when you're wet through and struggling to make progress, a few positive comments go a long way to keeping morale up, whereas when I'm solo I'm usually wondering why the hell I decided to spend my day walking through clag.


Usually I prefer solo, I'm a quick walker and I enjoy seeing as much as I can on trips, often descending with a headtorch after a full day out.  I don't have an extra long lunch stop or take many breaks, I'd rather be flying up something and down the other side and put that time into getting back to enjoy a pint or decent meal outdoors at a pub, especially if I get to watch a sunset a the end of the day.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: and101 on 10:20:58, 02/06/19

We should arrange a "Walking Wounded" forum hobble  ;D   I'm sure Bigfoot Mike suffers with his tendon too.


Let’s start a splinter group (pun intended)!
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: ninthace on 11:45:29, 02/06/19
And I have had fasciitis for the past month - finally found something that works but it needs to fix quick as I am off to Austria very soon.  We need a group name - perhaps Monty Python's Black Knights?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZmInkxbvlCs (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZmInkxbvlCs)
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: jimbob on 13:10:23, 02/06/19
And I have had fasciitis for the past month - finally found something that works but it needs to fix quick as I am off to Austria very soon. 

Tennis ball  or orthotic insoles? Both seem to work for me.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: ninthace on 15:10:31, 02/06/19
Tennis ball  or orthotic insoles? Both seem to work for me.
  Orthotics and Vitamin I gel 4 times a day.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: jimbob on 15:35:13, 02/06/19
  Orthotics and Vitamin I gel 4 times a day.
;D ;D Good one. I can't use the "I" due to taking warfarin,  they react  even as an external  gel .
If in pain I was advised to try Tiger Balm by the pharmacist.   It does the job for a wee while.

I found rolling tennis ball or a tin of something under the arch of the foot does a great job too.

Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: ninthace on 16:29:53, 02/06/19
;D ;D Good one. I can't use the "I" due to taking warfarin,  they react  even as an external  gel .
If in pain I was advised to try Tiger Balm by the pharmacist.   It does the job for a wee while.

I found rolling tennis ball or a tin of something under the arch of the foot does a great job too.
  My pain is further back right under the heel.  We have wood floors on the ground floor so slippers are the order of the day at present .  I think that is what kicked it off, I had a similar occurrence 2 houses ago when we had tile floors..  So far I have got through almost 2 tubes Vitamin I but it's working - the secret is to massage it in firmly until it has all gone.  We have a bird box outside - it takes 5 visits to the box by the mummy and daddy Blue Tit to work the gel in.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: ninthace on 17:32:45, 02/06/19
I found rolling tennis ball or a tin of something under the arch of the foot does a great job too.
  I did a quick trawl round the house, no dogs, no children and therefore no balls of any description.  Checked the store cupboards - no tinned goods or jars of jam, not sure a packet of rice would cut it.  The wine cellar is well stocked though - what would you recommend, a red or a white?  French or New World?
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: Jac on 18:40:08, 02/06/19
Wine is wine whatever the colour :D
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: jimbob on 19:54:04, 02/06/19
  I did a quick trawl round the house, no dogs, no children and therefore no balls of any description.  Checked the store cupboards - no tinned goods or jars of jam, not sure a packet of rice would cut it.  The wine cellar is well stocked though - what would you recommend, a red or a white?  French or New World?
Just drink it in any order,  that will fairly quickly allow you to forget the knife like feeling of agony slicing through your feet.
However , no matter how tempted you are after imbibing,  do not wear high heels as they only exacerbate the problem.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: ninthace on 20:01:08, 02/06/19
I was going to use the bottle in lieu of a tin to massage my foot but I like your idea better.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: WILDWALKINGUK on 08:06:09, 03/06/19
I've been walking solo and camping wild  for over 40yrs. I love the freedom of nothing booked or organised, just walking until I feel like stopping or the weather changes.
Earlier this year I walked from Lands End to John O'Groats via Snowdon, Scafell Pike and Ben Nevis alone, but was rarely lonely because I met so many lovely people along the way, many of which I probably wouldn't have talked to if I had been walking with a friend. Many of them would just come up chat because I was alone.
My first serious walks that I did alone, were the Cape Wrath Trail and TGO Challenge. Both walked without issue. It has given me a lot more confidence in my own abilities.
I've done the Pennine Way twice with others and it's a totally different experience to walking alone, both ways were enjoyable in different ways.
If you're interested in reading more, my website may be of interest. wildwalkinguk.com
 
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: and101 on 08:17:32, 03/06/19
   So far I have got through almost 2 tubes Vitamin I but it's working - the secret is to massage it in firmly until it has all gone. 


Ninthace, where do you get the Vit I gel from?
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: ninthace on 08:47:15, 03/06/19
Boots usually but the current tube is from Sainsbury’s. 5% w/w gel.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: jimbob on 09:15:25, 03/06/19

Ninthace, where do you get the Vit I gel from?
Vitamin I = Ibuprofen.
( For the avoidance of doubt)
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: and101 on 10:06:46, 03/06/19
Vitamin I = Ibuprofen.
( For the avoidance of doubt)


Ahh, that makes more sense now. Thanks!
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: Julie Tombs on 14:30:43, 23/06/19
How many forum members walk solo? Curious to know. I've been walking since I was a nipper and probably 80% of that has been solo. Don't get me wrong, I don't consider myself either lonely or a loner and there was a time relatively recently when I walked with a mate but we've drifted apart.
I do have an aversion to walking in a biggish group which is why I don't get involved with the Ramblers. I find things are a bit too regimented what with leaders, back markers, risk assessments and the like. To me that sort of approach is alien to the ethos of walking and trekking. Walking solo I'm answerable to nobody but myself. The only person who has any responsibility for me is ME. It gives me freedom and independence.
Interested to hear the views of others.
That said, I would not be averse to walking again with ONE mate but I feel I would have to know that we could rub along together and enjoy a pint and a laugh in the pub afterwards. ;)



Another mainly solo walker here although I do group walks too and occasionally with my husband/other relative or friends.  At least 50% of my walks are done alone though and I am happy with that.  It means I do not need to consider anyone else and can go at a pace I am happy with, stop when I want and just take in the view and not have to consider anyone elses agenda. I am quite happy to do the group walks too though but that is more about the companionship  than the walk and I find I miss things through chatting and not paying as much attention to surroundings. Initially I was quite nervous from a  safety point of view particularly up on the coastal path where most of my walks take place at the moment so I do put precautions in place.  I always tell my husband where I am going and keep my location services switched on my iPhone. He knows if I am not back by a certain time then he should try and contact me or alert someone.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: gunwharfman on 16:59:56, 23/06/19
I walk alone and have a tracking app on my phone and I wear a PEBBEL call alarm around my neck. It can also act as an emergency phone if I can't use my mobile. Never had to use it yet but maybe one day?
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: watershed on 19:27:49, 16/01/20
In the last 3000 miles I estimate I walked 300 miles in company.
That was with a church group on the WHW this summer, a couple of days on the TGO challenge in 2018 and taking my kids up Ronas Hill and visiting a few Brochs in Shetland.
The rest of my walks are solo.
I don't mind the company, but I see so much more when going solo. Especially wild life. Otters, birds, seals etc.
I tend to look at group walking as a different experience than solo walking. a bit like hill and coastal walking as a different experience to road and Down walking. Or when I used to run as cross country running to track running.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: Bhod on 21:46:42, 16/01/20
I'd say 80% of my walks are solo which I like, don't get me wrong, I like the company of my occasional walking partner but solo walking means I get to go at my own pace, choose my own route, stop for a brew when I want and basically I don't have to worry about someone else. 
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: myxpyr on 08:15:21, 17/01/20
I'd say 80% of my walks are solo which I like, don't get me wrong, I like the company of my occasional walking partner but solo walking means I get to go at my own pace, choose my own route, stop for a brew when I want and basically I don't have to worry about someone else.
Yes, that's much the same with me.
Perhaps we could start a solo walkers group ;)
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: ninthace on 09:48:51, 17/01/20
Yes, that's much the same with me.
Perhaps we could start a solo walkers group ;)
Wouldn’t that be an oxymoron?
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: BuzyG on 09:55:08, 17/01/20
Wouldn’t that be an oxymoron?
Oh these edjecated folk.  ;)
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: Bhod on 10:15:49, 17/01/20
And to be pedantic, shouldn't it be Solo Walker Group ?  ;D
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: Jac on 10:40:14, 17/01/20
And to be pedantic, shouldn't it be Solo Walker Group ?  ;D

Or Solo Walker's Group
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: ninthace on 12:27:52, 17/01/20
Or Solo Walker's Group
Or to be really pedantic Solo Walkers' Group - assuming there is more than one of them  :)
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: Jac on 12:38:00, 17/01/20
Or to be really pedantic Solo Walkers' Group - assuming there is more than one of them  :)

Then it should be Solo Walkers' Groups

As they walk solo, if there are more than one walker there must be more than one group
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: ninthace on 12:50:48, 17/01/20
Then it should be Solo Walkers' Groups

As they walk solo, if there are more than one walker there must be more than one group
  But in reply #68 myxpyr only wanted to start one group     (I can keep this up all day  ;) )
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: sussamb on 12:55:34, 17/01/20
In which case only one walker could be in it  ;D

but then it wouldn't be a 'group'  ;D
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: ninthace on 13:01:35, 17/01/20
Could you have a putative group if they never actually came together?  ???
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: myxpyr on 13:03:38, 17/01/20
Oh gawd, what have I started? :o
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: ninthace on 13:13:07, 17/01/20
Thinking about it more, quantum theory says there might or might not be such a thing as a solo walker's group provided it was not observed.  At which point, it would either cease to exist or coalesce into a group.  In the latter case, the solo walkers would then cease to exist and the group would again disappear, as it had no qualifying members, to be replaced by ramblers.
In short, they can form a group provided nobody looks at them.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: jimbob on 13:20:44, 17/01/20
But surely they have to have provable existence in the first place. Schrodinger definitely had a cat, he was sick of cleaning out its litter tray. The lack of observation and  questions on the existence of said cat only came about when it was shut in the box.  ;)
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: ninthace on 13:32:05, 17/01/20
What people don't know is he only put it in a box in the first place because it because it kept pooing everywhere.  Then, being an absent minded boffin, he either forgot about it or forgot which box he put it in, so had to come up with a convoluted thought experiment just to explain his missing cat - and you bought it  ;) .
Solo walkers have a provable existence, it is the existence of a group that we are hypothesising.  They may as hard to find as neutrinos, which existed as an idea for years before they had a provable existence.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: jimbob on 14:24:13, 17/01/20
it is the existence of a group that we are hypothesising.  They may as hard to find as neutrinos, which existed as an idea for years before they had a provable existence.
  O0 Gotcha.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 14:29:04, 17/01/20
I've done most of my walking solo and about equal amounts in a pair and with a group.

Group walking has advantages in not having to think so much so you can just enjoy the walk as well as having examples of walking to learn from when tackling difficult terrain. On the other hand you can't stop for photos where you like and you have to stop for rests when you don't need them if others do.

Solo walking has advantages of not suffering from the problems of group walking plus some people like the solitude.

Walking in a pair (or a small relaxed group) was my favourite as you can stop for photos, have someone to do or share the navigation with, might have an example to follow and get to socialise and share the experience.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: pleb on 15:10:37, 17/01/20
Thinking about it more, quantum theory says there might or might not be such a thing as a solo walker's group provided it was not observed.  At which point, it would either cease to exist or coalesce into a group.  In the latter case, the solo walkers would then cease to exist and the group would again disappear, as it had no qualifying members, to be replaced by ramblers.
In short, they can form a group provided nobody looks at them.
Were you watching that BBC4 prog last night about quantum theory? I saw some, made my head spin! I think....
At least I think it existed..............not sure about the bits of the prog I didnt see....
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: ninthace on 15:21:54, 17/01/20
Were you watching that BBC4 prog last night about quantum theory? I saw some, made my head spin! I think....
At least I think it existed..............not sure about the bits of the prog I didnt see....
I recorded it - not watched yet.  I did 20 lectures on Quantum Chemistry at university and never understood a blind word the man said.  It was made worse by the fact that he wrote on the board with one hand and rubbed it off with the other so I never got to see a whole equation in one go.  That's 20 hours I will never get back but I learned some new squiggles - no idea what they are for though.  I do recall that Schrödinger was fond of surfing because there was something about a wave equation (probably).
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: pleb on 15:24:28, 17/01/20
If you havent watched it, it doesnt exist.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: ninthace on 15:27:31, 17/01/20
If you havent watched it, it doesnt exist.
Ah, but it will when I do in all probability.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: pleb on 15:36:18, 17/01/20
Are you sure?
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: ninthace on 15:50:22, 17/01/20
Are you sure?
Spooky ... from a distance I just checked the video and it has collapsed into existence.  Now if I can just disentangle it.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: Jac on 15:54:55, 17/01/20
I think....
At least I think it existed..............not sure about the bits of the prog I didnt see....
.

Ah but if you think then you am

Perhaps the cat was not a thinker among cats
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: ninthace on 15:58:25, 17/01/20
.

Ah but if you think then you am

I think you are putting Descartes before de horse.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: myxpyr on 16:25:37, 17/01/20
Are we all going to disappear into a black hole? :'(
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: ninthace on 17:24:28, 17/01/20
Are we all going to disappear into a black hole? :'(
I don't think such an event is on the horizon.  ;)
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: jimbob on 17:55:01, 17/01/20
There is a theory that string can save you.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: ninthace on 17:58:02, 17/01/20
There is a theory that string can save you.
It's ok if you like spaghetti.  I'll be alright - I'm a Pastafarian.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: jimbob on 18:02:13, 17/01/20
The Cluster Decomposition Theorem could explain how a group of walkers separate and become solo walkers. Personally I prefer Toblerone, fresh.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: Bigfoot_Mike on 18:52:10, 17/01/20
Now if I can just disentangle it.  
Did you record it on VHS, or even a reel to reel tape recorder?
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: Owen on 19:25:55, 17/01/20
Have you lot been at the winegums again??
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: pleb on 12:09:26, 18/01/20
Can you see any winegums?
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: Owen on 12:54:06, 18/01/20
Can you see any winegums?


No, you've had them all.
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: ninthace on 13:16:26, 18/01/20
These are not the winegums you are looking for.  Use the Force pleb
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: Yorci on 20:28:11, 25/01/20
 Another solo walker here, like many others here, I'm not anti-social or anything, nor am I lonely or a loner, and I'm not against walking with others. I will strike up random conversation with people I pass, and can sometimes be a bit of a natter box, so I apologise now for your sanity, if we bump in to each other, ha ha! ;D I find I'm a solo walker by circumstance rather than choice, none of my mates go hiking or camping, plus a majority of my mates are spread all over the UK, so getting together is a bit awkward. :( Plus I’m a shift worker so I work most weekends and bank holidays. This brings the advantage of missing the crowds on popular walks. Walking alone is not ideal, but I have found a sense of freedom of being solo. I have become use to it and quite enjoy it. I can go where and when, and take breaks when I want, at whatever pace I want.
 
Title: Re: Walking Solo
Post by: sussamb on 21:34:55, 25/01/20
I can sing when I walk solo, wouldn't do so in company or I'd be walking solo again  ;D