Obtain comfortable shoes and wear them every day for a period of one month before the pilgrimage. The shoes should be a larger size than you would choose for normal use in case you need to wear double socks. Remember that more than likely your feet will swell during the march, and having too small a pair of shoes will be torturous for you.

   Have with you several pairs of socks, both thick and thin, cotton and wool, and test them for comfort before the pilgrimage. Make sure also that the socks are not too tight and do not cut off your circulation.

   One month before the pilgrimage avoid using your car or the subway and bus system. Try to walk at least one hour per day to get your legs in shape.

   Take care of your feet. During the two weeks before the pilgrimage, soak your feet in salted warm water, rub them down with cream, and make sure that your toenails are clipped.

   Women who wear high heels should stop wearing them one month before the pilgrimage in order to prepare their calf muscles for the walk.

 

 

   Please note that the weather during the trip might be changeable. Your choice of clothing should reflect this fact (rain gear, etc.) Also remember that if the weather is sunny, you should have protective clothing (long sleeves, long pants, etc.) and bring sun screen with you to avoid sunburn.

   Switch location in the column of pilgrims during the course of the march to avoid the muscle fatigue that might occur from marching for too long on the slope of the road.

  During the rest stops, avoid cooling down the muscles of your legs too rapidly. Doing it gradually will help you to avoid cramping.

   Obviously the pack/backpack that you carry with you on the way should be lightweight and easily handled.

   Bring with you two elastic bandages, 2 ½ in. wide and 5 in. wide, bandaids, small handkerchief/bandanna to wet and put around your neck, talcum powder, aspirin, different sizes of plastic bags, several pairs of socks, refillable water bottle, and plastic rain poncho. Needless to say, we hope that you won’t need them, but you should be prepared for any situation.

   If you use any medication on a regular basis, please don’t forget to take it with you.

   If you experience any medical problem along the way, please inform the medical team immediately.