My first Haervejsmarch – a journey of steps, pain and pride

This weekend (last weekend in June 2025) I participated in my very first Haervejsmarch– and what an experience it was! For many it is “just” a walk, but for me it is much more. It is the result of several years of struggle with chronic pain, a weight loss process and a quiet victory over an everyday life that has not always been easy. This was proof that it is useful to take one step after another – both physically and mentally.

After my weight loss process, it became clear to me that I needed to find a form of exercise that I could both endure and at the same time maintain my weight loss. The training had to take into account my chronic pain – and that is precisely why hiking became the obvious way into movement. Walking has been a gentle and gentle way to start exercising again – and it has proven to be the right choice.

For me, movement is not just exercise, it is a way to be able to live with pain. It hurts to walk some days, yes – but the benefits are greater. I feel how my body is getting stronger, and how it is easier for me to get around in everyday life. In fact, it has developed to the point that I have to move every day. Otherwise, the pain becomes too intense.

One of the things that helps me stick to the movement is signing up for walking and hiking events. They give me something to look forward to – and not least something to keep me going. Walking with others brings joy, even though I often start alone. Small meetings and conversations quickly arise along the route, and that makes it all even more rewarding.  

Haervejsmarch – Day 1: 30 km with speed, community and a new PR
I signed up for the Haervejsmarch because I wanted to try walking two days in a row. Saturday was 30 km. I started early – at 7 am – and quickly found myself walking behind some young Dutch soldiers. They set a good pace, and I got carried away. At the first depot around 13 km, they took a break. I hadn’t really planned on taking a break there, but a sausage roll called out to me – and I couldn’t say no! The atmosphere was fantastic, with music and good energy. The soldiers stayed a little longer, so I continued alone.

Not far from there I got into a conversation with a man – I never got his name, and that's how it often is – and we followed each other for a bit. At the last depot he wanted to take a break, but I felt that my body still had some energy, so I picked up the pace. Suddenly I could see that I had the opportunity to beat my personal best of 30 km – and I did! With a 5-minute improvement, I hit the finish area, tired but proud. The atmosphere at the site was really nice, and I sat down and enjoyed it all before heading home to rest my legs a bit. 

Day 2: 20 km with company and beautiful surroundings
On Sunday the trip continued – this time 20 km – and here I had an agreement to go with a friend. And it was a good thing, because my body was sore from Saturday's trip. But we set off, and the route this day was undoubtedly more beautiful than Saturday's. The weather was perfect, and again we encountered the same good atmosphere along the way – smiling people and lots of support.

At the finish line, the medal awaited, and my friend, who has walked the Haervejsmarch several times, told me that you can get different medals depending on how many years you have participated. Inside the hall, you could see a whole exhibition of medals – and they were really beautiful. I was immediately motivated: I have to have more of those!

Reflections
Now my body is sore and the pain is obvious. But it was all worth it. I know my body is recovering, and I know how much it means to me to be able to move – despite the pain.

For me, it’s not about walking the furthest or the fastest. It’s about taking responsibility for my body, my well-being and my life – one step at a time.