Nice’s splendid food, the historic cathedrals with their breathtaking grandeur, and the lush palm trees along the coast were what I aspired to see for a very long time. Due to this very reason, I carefully planned my entire trip to Nice, and because I knew I would be on my feet for the walking tour, I made an effort to get into shape. I was on a mission for someone who leads a somewhat sedentary lifestyle thanks to my desk job. I also have not had any frequent visits to the gym. So, I wanted to take in Nice’s beauty on my own. The lengthy walk would contribute to a healthier lifestyle, and I wouldn’t miss even the slightest opportunity on my tour. Don’t worry, you too can get in shape for your two-hour and fifteen-minute walking tour! I’m sharing with you what I accomplished here and my journey in hopes that it will inspire you to do the same!
Amp up your Cardio
Cardio exercises are strongly recommended during your training session if you can access the gym. This workout would improve your general strength and endurance, not only for the walk. These exercises are quite beneficial for strenuous, lengthy distances and steep routes. It aids in developing the strength and muscle memory needed for the necessary range of motion. Bear in mind that you should build from a slow start.
My long work hours prevented me from going to the gym, or perhaps it was just laziness. However, I began with the most fundamental exercise that also improves cardio: walking, which I performed for at least a month before my visit, and what a wake-up call it was. I concluded that my leg muscles were not strong enough to support me for long. I, therefore, took my time and gradually extended my distance from the few blocks I had at first. Then, I continued to a steeper path when I could walk a few blocks, keeping in mind the lovely but slightly steep landscape in Nice. And it was easier to incorporate the walk into my schedule than to find the time to do it.
Additionally, strengthen yourself with lunges, calf raises, squats, and other exercises. If you plan to go shopping and carry your bags, this will be useful. Your stability will be enhanced, and injuries from carrying weight will be avoided thanks to your powerful muscles. When your muscles are well-trained and powerful, they will also require significantly less energy to move.
Have Comfortable Gear
On the day of your tour, wear light, loose, and breezy clothing and comfortable walking shoes. Wearing baggy pants with pockets will allow you more storage space whilst keeping your hands free. Furthermore, it is imperative to have a pair of trusty and reliable shoes! Kindly, refrain from wearing your brand-new shoes on the day of your walking tour! Let your feet get used to them and break them in! This will help you avoid blisters and sores! If you need a walking pole, don’t be embarrassed to use one. Priorities should be given to health and safety!
Carbohydrate Rich Food and Adequate Hydration
Two hours before the walking tour, a combination of complex carbs and protein should be consumed to maximise energy. Healthy bean and vegetable salads, fruit salads, whole-wheat peanut butter sandwiches, smoothies with bananas and dates, Greek yogurts with berries, and bananas and almonds are all excellent options for pre-walk snacks. While nutritious, these snacks additionally give you a quick energy boost to carry you through your strenuous stroll. Hydration is also essential. It is sound advice to take some nutritious snacks and juices, or just plain water, for the walk, in addition to consuming at least a litre of water or fresh juice before the run. Additionally, don’t forget to eat within 30 minutes after the end of your tour to restore lost electrolytes, water, and energy. I would suggest eating a diet high in fats, proteins, and complex carbohydrates. One can quickly replenish their power by drinking water, yogurt with berries, and smoothies.
I had Salad Nicoise before going for the tour of Nice, and it was delicious! Not only was it a wholesome combination of ingredients, but it also delighted my taste buds and left me wanting more! And, safe to say that I also had the famed Salad right after my tour ended. What can I say? The palate wants what it wants.
Having my favourite songs on hand for motivation on my playlist proved to be helpful during my tour. It not only enhanced the experience, but it also made my walk much more pleasurable. I was also honest with myself about my limits. I stopped a few times to eat the snacks, drink water, and rest before continuing the tour.
My tour of Nice and taking in its exceptional beauty was a magical experience! I would highly recommend for everyone who visits Nice to take the walking tour and be prepared beforehand for the tiring, yet rewarding walk!