Embracing Fitness and Adventure: The Joy of Virtual Trekking with Conqueror’s Challenge
By Peggy Sue McRae, Journal Contributor
As the seasons shift toward the darker, colder, and wetter months of the year, many of us find ourselves seeking motivation to maintain our fitness routines. The challenge of staying active can feel daunting when the days grow shorter and the weather less inviting. However, there are innovative ways to inspire your step counting and keep your exercise routine engaging. One such method is virtual trekking, a fun and rewarding way to explore the world while staying committed to your fitness goals.
Discovering the World from Your Home
Imagine walking through the lush jungle canopy on an elevated steel bridge in the vibrant city-state of Singapore. While actual travel may not be feasible for everyone, virtual trekking offers a unique opportunity to explore distant lands from the comfort of your own home. For several years, I have been using the Conqueror’s Challenge app to add excitement and accountability to my fitness journey.
The Conqueror’s Challenge app allows users to track their steps and fitness activities, converting them into distance traveled on a virtual map. Each day, I log my steps and other exercises, watching as my progress marker moves along the path of my chosen journey. The app even features a “street view” option, allowing me to see the actual locations I’m virtually traversing.
A Journey Through Singapore’s Southern Ridges
Recently, I found myself immersed in the jungle canopy above Singapore. As I logged my daily distance, I received a delightful postcard detailing Singapore’s Southern Ridges, an elevated trail system that connects five urban parks. These postcards not only provide interesting facts about the locations but also enhance the sense of adventure as I trek through various landscapes.
Completing a challenge through the app rewards users with impressive medals. My journey began with a hike along Hadrian’s Wall, and since then, I have conquered iconic trails such as the Inca Trail, the route from Sparta to Athens, and the breathtaking North Coast 500 in Scotland.
The Joy of Shared Experiences
Each challenge typically costs around $30 and varies in length, allowing users to choose adventures that suit their fitness levels and interests. My most recent trek, a 500-mile journey along the north coast of Scotland, was particularly meaningful to me, as my family takes great pride in our Scottish Highland heritage. The experience was made even more enjoyable by the fact that my sister, Sally, joined me on this adventure. Having a trekking partner adds a layer of camaraderie that enhances the experience.
One of the highlights of our Scottish trek was passing through Beauly, the village where my McRae grandparents hailed from. However, I must admit that 500 miles was quite a long slog! Thankfully, Sally remains my steadfast companion on this journey. After the windswept Scottish coast, we decided to switch things up and selected a package deal that includes three Asian cities: Singapore, Bangkok, and Tokyo. The allure of exploring unfamiliar places adds an exciting twist to our fitness routine.
Learning and Exploring Through Literature
Our initial research on Singapore took an unexpected and delightful turn when we stumbled upon the Harriet Gordon mystery series by A. M. Stuart. These captivating mysteries feature a determined English suffragette solving murders in late colonial Singapore. This literary discovery has become a rewarding way to complement our virtual trekking experience, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the culture and history of the places we are exploring.
The Importance of Fun in Fitness
The ultimate goal of my fitness journey is to keep active while having fun. Whether you choose to embark on virtual treks, join a local fitness class, or explore the great outdoors, finding joy in your activities is essential. As we embrace the fall season, I encourage everyone to seek out new adventures, discover hidden gems, and prioritize good health.
For those interested in embarking on their own virtual trekking journey, I highly recommend checking out the Conqueror Challenge at The Conqueror Challenge. With a world of exploration at your fingertips, you can transform your fitness routine into an exciting adventure that inspires you to keep moving.
In conclusion, as the days grow shorter and the weather turns chilly, let’s embrace the joys of discovery and the rewards of staying active. Happy trekking!
