Latest News, Tips & Advice

MEET OUR PARTNER: THE ALTITUDE CENTRE

August 22, 2025

What is high altitude and why might it affect me?

Some of our overseas Charity Challenges involve trekking at high altitude, where the oxygen levels in the air are reduced. Healthy people can travel to altitudes of up to and above 6000m, as long as they are properly acclimatised. If you’re not acclimatised, you could suffer from ‘altitude sickness’, noticing your pulse rate and breathing rate increases, as your body works harder to get available oxygen to the muscles.

When designing our itineraries, we ensure that we provide adequate time to acclimatise, so that the majority of healthy participants can function unhindered and avoid illness.

One of the benefits of booking with Charity Challenge, is the support and training you will receive from our partners at The Altitude Centre – the UK’s leading altitude training specialists.

meet our partners the altitude centre, experts in training for high altitude challenges

About The Altitude Centre

The Altitude Centre specialise in training clients for extreme adventure challenges in person, at home, and online. Whether you are preparing for your first foray into the mountains or planning a record-breaking feat at altitude, they are on hand to discuss the challenge, the preparation required, and how you can maximise your chances of success with altitude training.

Having worked with multiple record-breaking climbers, as well as overseen hundreds of first-time climbers achieving their summit success each year, they can help prepare you for the climb ahead!

A group of trekkers on the summit of Mt Kilimanjaro, Tanzania in the sunshine with blue skies.

What The Altitude Centre Offers Charity Challenge Participants

Altitude Training & Group Consultations

As part of your Charity Challenge, you can join a free online group consultation (30-45 minutes long) with the experts at the Altitude Centre, to discuss everything to do with preparing for your challenge and hash out a plan of action to take you to the top.

What’s included in the call:

  • Expert advice on altitude and acclimatisation
  • Common altitude challenges and how to overcome them
  • Understanding high-altitude environments
  • Tips on training, gear, and preparation
  • A chance to ask any specific questions you have around high-altitude travel

To book onto a free online group consultation please go to the High Altitude section of your Participant Account Area.

A specialist from the altitude centre running through a training session in the gym, on a treadmill

Discounted Training Plans

The Altitude Centre are also delighted to offer all Charity Challenge participants 50% off all relevant training plans. These have been custom-built for specific challenges by the experts at the Altitude Centre, such as…

• Kilimanjaro

• Everest Base Camp

• Mt Toubkal

• 5000m+ Trekking Plan

• 8-Week Alpine Preparation Plans

More information on the discounted training plans can be found in the High Altitude section of your Participant Account Area.

High altitude challenges are not to be taken lightly and require thorough training and preparation. But when you sign up with Charity Challenge, you’ll have access to a wide range of partner benefits and expert support – giving you the best chance to reach your goals and enjoy the adventure of a lifetime!

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Latest News, Tips & Advice

WHERE TO START: CAMPING

August 21, 2025

Many of our overseas and multi-day UK challenges include camping, and even some of our exclusive one-day events may feature a night under the stars. If you’re new to camping, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with the basics. This guide will walk you through how to prepare and our top tips for keeping comfortable, warm, and ready for adventure.

For multi-day challenges, we’ll usually provide the tents for you – but if your challenge requires you to supply a tent yourself, our partners at Outdoorhire or Cotswold Outdoor are great companies to get some advice, rent or buy quality camping kit from. Just remember: space matters! A one-person tent feel be very small, especially on rainy days when you’ll need room for your bag and to get changed inside. Learn more about our Clothing and Equipment Participant Discounts here.

where to start camping. two tents pitched on grass, overlooking hills and a sunset

What to Pack: Camping Checklist

Remember, which kit is and isn’t provided on your particular challenge will be made clear to you on your trip documents, found within your Participant Account Area (check your Kit List, Trip Notes and Final Details). With this is mind, here’s our camping packing checklist, covering the bare essentials, and optional extras…

Essentials:

  • Sleeping bag and sleeping mat – check the recommended temperature rating for these on your kit list.
  • Headtorch – needed to navigate the dark evenings and early morning starts whilst getting ready in your tent! Always bring spare batteries as the cold can drain batteries overnight.
  • Dry bags / Packing cubes – super useful for organising your kit, as well as keeping wet and dry kit separate (plastic bags work too!)
  • Warm clothing layers – it’s important to consider that the temperature can often drop overnight during challenges. Lightweight thermal layers are ideal e.g. a pair of thermal sleeping socks, gloves, beanie and a neck buff (we provide Charity Challenge buffs on all our challenges!). Keeping your extremities warm is important, as your hands, feet and head lose heat the fastest.

Team Tips: We highly recommend physically going into an outdoor store such Cotswold Outdoor to get a sleeping bag and sleeping mat fitted. Sleeping bags come in a variety of sizes (men, women and kids) and a variety of shapes (rectangular, semi rectangular, mummy, and double-wide). If you like to move around in your sleep, a mummy shaped sleeping bag might not be the option for you! Once you have decided on your sleeping bag, make sure you match your sleeping mat with the same size and shape to ensure you do not roll off during the night! – Jenn Payne, Charity Challenge Leader

woman stood at the doorway of her tent with a backpack

Optional Extras:

  • Sleeping bag liner – not an essential, but helps keep your sleeping bag clean and can add an extra lightweight layer of warmth. Get this in the same size and shape as your sleeping bag for extra comfort.
  • Earplugs & eye mask – block out the noise and light to help you get a restful, uninterrupted night’s sleep. It starts to get bright early when you are camping outdoors!
  • Camping pillow – a lightweight blow up pillow, compactable one or even a makeshift pillow made from some dry clothing will support your neck whilst sleeping.

Team Tips: Foil mat – these provide extra insulation from cold or damp ground when placed underneath your sleeping mat – and they really do make a difference! If your sleeping mat isn’t very well insulated, these are a cheaper and compact way to stay warm. – Laura O’Connor, Marketing Assistant

two people smiling inside their tent, keeping warm with a hot drink

Tips for a Warm, Dry and Restful Camp

Now that you’ve got the essential kit sorted, it’s time to think about how to make camping life run as smooth as possible. A few small habits can save you time and energy – from staying organised for the morning to keeping your gear dry and ready to use…

  • Campsite Routines – after a long day trekking, the last thing you need is to waste precious energy and sleep time faffing! Plan your evenings and mornings to run efficiently. For example, change out of your wet kit first and hang to dry (if possible) and keep a dry bag out for the morning. Before dinner, recharge your electronics, refill your water and lay out your thermal sleeping layers, so they’re ready for use. These small habits can make a big challenge feel more manageable.
  • Organise your Kit – make use of packing cubes, dry bags and your backpacks pockets to keep your kit organised. Think about how often you’ll need certain items and what you’ll need easy access to the following morning. If you get caught in bad weather, having dry bags will help keep your dry and wet clothes separate.
  • Prevent Electronics Draining – did you know, cold temperatures can cause battery powered items to drain faster? Keeping your phone, camera or power-bank close to your body heat (even in your sleeping bag) can prevent their power from draining!

Team Tips:  DIY Hot Water Bottles – some water bottles are made to hold hot water safely as well as cold, so if hot water is available, you can fill up your bottle to help keep you warm at camp (always ensure you use your kit as only as intended). If you do not have access to hot water, hand warmers work just as well. I never camp without them! – Jenn Payne, Charity Challenge Leader

a campsite of pitched tents, showing a woman sat looking out of her tent enjoying a hot drink as the sun sets

Embrace the Spirit of Camping

Embracing the spirit of camping is all part of the challenge! It’s a chance to step away from screens, slow down and truly be present in your surroundings. Sharing tents, routines and stories builds a real sense of teamwork – and a night spent in a campsite offers a rare opportunity to unwind and connect with both nature and your fellow trekkers.

With these handy tips on where to start with camping, we hope you’re now eager to dive into the adventure of Charity Challenges!

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Challenges, Latest News

LAUNCH OF 2026 UK CHALLENGES

July 31, 2025

Over the past year, thanks to our incredible community of challenge participants, we’ve raised over £1.5 million together for a wide range of fantastic causes.

While we’ve been out delivering unforgettable experiences across the UK, our team has also been busy planning what’s next. And now, we’re thrilled to launch our UK Challenge dates for 2026, including four brand new urban adventures to add to your bucket list!

Take a look at what’s coming up, we’d love to see you at the start line next year…

New UK Urban Challenges for 2026


Grand union canal in Birmingham at sunrise with barges and apartment buildings

Birmingham Canal to Castle Trek

Challenge yourself to this scenic marathon distance (42km) trek as you follow the Grand Union Canal from Birmingham Cathedral to Warwick Castle. 

1 day | UK | Challenging


Leith hill tower in the Surrey Hills on a clear day with blue skies

Surrey Three Peaks Challenge

Discover three of Surrey’s iconic peaks as you trek 35km through tranquil woodland, charming villages, and rolling countryside.

1 day | UK | Challenging


Historic Bristol bridge on a sunny clear day with blue skies

Bristol Gorge, Bridge and Castle Trek

This unique marathon distance (42km) circular route showcases Bristol’s rich history, stunning architecture, and diverse cultural heritage.

1 day | UK | Challenging


Historic canal going through Manchester city on a clear day

Manchester Canals Trek

Take on an epic marathon distance (42km) journey through Manchester, following historic canals, vibrant waterfronts, and iconic landmark.

1 day | UK | Challenging

Top 5 UK Challenges for 2026


A group of trekkers on the summit of Mt Snowdon, Wales on a clear day

National Three Peaks Challenge

Considered one of Britain’s toughest outdoor challenges, the National 3 Peaks Challenge takes in the heights of Ben Nevis (1,344m), Scafell Pike (978m) and Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) (1,085m) – all within 24 hours!

3 days | UK | Tough


A group of trekkers on the summit of Mt Snowdon, Wales at sunrise

Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) At Night

This spectacular challenge will see you and fellow fundraisers trekking to the top of Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) at night! Challenge your senses and take on the highest mountain in Wales (1085m) under the starry night sky.

2 days | UK | Tough


A walker with walking poles on the Sevens Sister, South Downs Way on a clear day with blue skies

South Downs Challenge

Challenge yourself on this incredible 42km marathon distance trek along some of the UK’s most famous coastal scenery, including the stunning Seven Sisters and Beachy Head, before finishing in Eastbourne.

1 day | UK | Tough


A group of kayakers  with oars in the air on Coniston water in the Lake District

Lake District Triple Challenge

Set in the stunning Lake District National Park – trek to the summit of the Old Man of Coniston, test yourself on the off-road mountain bike trails of Grizedale forest and finish with a kayak across the iconic Coniston Water.

2 days | UK | Challenge


A clear day on the Thames Path with  historic London bridge

Thames Footpath Challenge

An epic 42km journey through London, following the Thames Path from Hampton Court and trekking a marathon distance to Millennium Bridge. Pass by historic parkland, beautiful bridges and famous London landmarks!

1 day | UK | Tough


And that’s not all! We have plenty more UK challenges available to join in 2026 – including: Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge, Ben Nevis at Night, Lake District 5 Peaks Challenge, The Edinburgh 7 Summits Challenge, Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) Triple Challenge and the Hadrian’s Wall Trail Challenge.

Here’s to another year of challenging yourself, adventure and making a real difference. See you in 2026…

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Case Studies, Latest News

OUR CLIENTS – THE ALBION FOUNDATION

July 31, 2025

Over the last 26 years, we have helped raise over £91,000,000 for thousands of incredible causes. Our charity clients include: The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, CoppaFeel!, the British Heart Foundation, Mind, Cancer Research UK, Macmillan Cancer Support, Sands, Alzheimer’s Research UK, Prostate Cancer Research, the NSPCC, Comic Relief, UNICEF, Save the Children and hundreds of smaller organisations. We are hugely experienced at operating challenges to the highest standards of quality and safety and will do all we can to help your organisation recruit and engage participants and supporters. 

We caught up with The Albion Foundation on how their recent Trek to Petra challenge went…

Trek to Petra challengers from the albion foundation smiling in a group photo in front of the treasury in petra, jordan. They are holding a charity challenge and an west Bromwich albion flag.

Please introduce yourself…

I’m Jonathan Ward, Deputy Director at The Albion Foundation and 17 of our supporters took on the Trek to Petra Challenge in March 2025, raising over £75,000 to support our cause. 

jonathan ward, the albion foundation deputy director on the trek to petra challenge

Why did you choose Charity Challenge?

We have worked with Charity Challenge for a long time now. So far, we have done the Great Wall Discovery Trek, Trek to Machu Picchu and Trek to Petra. From day one, Charity Challenge have been phenomenal. I genuinely feel like they are invested in the charity aspect of it. It’s not your usual travel company; they understand that the core of a challenge is to do good in the community.

From Simon to the entire team, everyone sees this as the most important thing, meaning that the good of the charity is always at the center of any decision-making. I simply trust Charity Challenge; there’s a lot of work and due diligence that takes place to make these trips possible, and we’ve witnessed this in action. The rapport Charity Challenge has with the ground staff overseas and what’s been provided on the previous challenges we’ve done puts me at so much ease – they just make it so simple for us. 

Trke to petra challengers trekking in the jordan desert

What were you hoping to achieve?

This is our third challenge – and you can worry that the novelty may wear off… but what’s fantastic about the plethora of challenges Charity Challenge offers is that there’s something for everyone. As a foundation, we were aiming to raise £50,000, which we’ve surpassed considerably, reaching £75,000. The main aim of our challenges are to raise an amount of money that’s able to make a real difference back home. But they also provide the people who take part in these challenges a chance to not only do good, but to experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, doing something they’d never usually get a chance to.

It’s about creating a team and a sense of one-ness. The way the challenges are set up means this happens quite easily. So, it’s a mixture of generating funds and giving people an unbelievable opportunity to do something good whilst also making lasting memories. 

The albion foundation supporters smiling whilst on their charity challenge trek to petra

How did it go?

A whole array of the West Bromwich Albion community took part. The chair of our trustees, James Verrier, took part and we also had a lot of repeat participants on this challenge from our previous one. We also had foundation partners and people from the team’s supporter groups, like Proud Baggies and Warwickshire Baggies. 

The Albion Foundation Supporters on the Trek to Petra Charity Challenge with their West Bromwich Albion Flag

What were your highlights?

Firstly, this was the most cohesive team we’ve had, everyone became like family. My highlight was witnessing this small group of men, who were all from different walks of life and would never usually come together. By the second day, they had become friends and one evening, were just standing together talking about the stars. Listening to that conversation was a real proud moment. Everyone in the group was talking and helping each other out. This Charity Challenge brought these people together to share these lasting memories.

Each day was immersive – from the food and the culture, to the way of life that the local guides showed us, they made it so amazing for us and enabled us to embrace it. 

Approaching Petra was another major highlight. When you arrive, you start at the back and see the Treasury first, which is incredible. But that’s not it! You’re there for six hours walking through, and it got better and better. I didn’t expect it to be like a miniature town; it was just phenomenal. There was a theatre, houses, markets and alleys. The whole thing was breathtaking and that day was especially incredible.  

The albion foundation Trek to Petra challengers at celebrating at petra in jordan

What did Charity Challenge do well?

Whilst organising the challenge, we had to rearrange dates for reasons out of our control, but everything was done in the right way, thoughtful yet calm. Charity Challenge’s perspective was whatever had to be done, was done and to a standard where I never had to question it. The integrity of the organisation is clear; there’s no blurred lines. Which, for charities, to be able to put your trust in that is phenomenal to have. The flexibility is great too with logistics and setting the challenge up. The effort, time and communication with the local ground team overseas team is evident to see – it’s like a well-oiled machine that just works.

For example, on previous challenges, we had a delayed flight, but there was no issue, everything was sorted by Charity Challenge. These things can happen, yet when a problem arose, it was solved immediately. The professionalism of the organisation is something I can’t question! 

Trek to Petra in aid of The Albion Foundation participants  
posing for a group photo in front of the Petra Treasury

Testimonial

Rating: 5 out of 5.

Charity Challenge are not your usual travel company; they are genuinely invested in the charity aspect of it – they understand that the core of a challenge is to do good in the community and bring people together.

Jonathan Ward, Deputy Director at The Albion Foundation

Read more about our customers have to say on the Google Reviews link below: 


Watch our Trek to Petra video below…

Learn more about our corporate challenges here, download our corporate brochure.

If you’re interested in engaging your employees with a challenge event – book your free initial consultation now! 

During our consultation, we will discuss your business needs, goals and values, provide you with options aligned to your objectives, and then of course, answer any questions that you might have. We’ll also discuss what support we offer and how we will work together throughout your challenge journey. 

You can expect this call to last about 30 minutes. We look forward to speaking with you soon!

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Inspiration, Latest News

MEET THE TEAM: SAMEED ASGHAR

July 29, 2025

At Charity Challenge we are extremely proud of our amazing team of Leaders. We know it can be a little daunting signing up for a challenge for the first time, so we thought you might like to meet the team in advance of your Charity Challenge. Today, we introduce you to one of our experienced Charity Challenge leaders, Sameed Asghar…

Sameed Asghar leading for Charity Challenge on the Isle of Skye CoppaTrek! with Coppafeel!

How long have you worked with Charity Challenge as a leader?

I’ve been a leader for Charity Challenge for 5 years now. The London 10 Peaks Challenge was the first Charity Challenge event I worked on.

What’s been your favourite challenge (so far)?

The Scottish Highlands CoppaTrek! with Coppafeel! was probably my favourite challenge, as it’s the first time I learnt about the charity and the great work they do. The whole group was a pleasure to be with, I cannot emphasise enough how good the vibes were! Being able to support the group as a Charity Challenge leader was an honour.

Sameed Asghar on the Scottish Highlands CoppaTrek! Challenge

Do you have any challenges left on your bucket list?

There are so many challenges on my bucket list still! As a leader, I don’t really get to do my own hikes/adventures as much as before, but one day I would love to do the Dolomites in Italy.

How do you keep your fitness in tip top shape for challenge season? 

As well as an active leader, I’m also a football (futsal) coach and play a couple times a week, so this keeps me in good shape. I also use the gym during the week to stay fit!

Meet the team: Sameed Asghar, Charity Challenge Leader

What are your go to snacks to keep you fuelled and hydrated on a challenge?

Sometimes breakfast is rushed with early starts, so I find those oat to go breakfast bars great. One bar is equivalent to having a bowl of porridge. I also love to snack on Medjool dates during a trek – they’re tasty and great for energy.

Any top tips to share with participants signed up to a challenge?

  • Tip 1 – Train as much as you can for a challenge, as then you’ll enjoy it even more. Even if you don’t have steep hills/mountains locally, long walks are great for training. Also, if you’re a gym goer and have the Stairmaster machine – that’s great for training for hills and ascents!
  • Tip 2 – Invest in a good pair of walking boots and hiking socks. I highly recommend Bridgedale socks. It’s also important boots aren’t too tight and that you break into them well before a challenge.
Sameed posing at the summit of a mountain with some charity challenge participants

What 5 items do you always pack in your daypack?

The 5 items I always pack in my daypack are water/snacks, a first aid kit, group shelter, a power bank and waterproof layers.

What is the best thing about being a leader?

The best thing about being a leader is knowing I’ve helped someone else reach their goals by supporting them on a Charity Challenge.

Leader Sameed Asghar smiling with other leaders on a charity challenge

What is your proudest achievement to date?

My proudest achievement to date has been driving an ambulance full of aid from Birmingham to the Gaza strip. 

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Latest News, Tips & Advice

COMMON COMPLAINTS AND INJURIES ON A CHALLENGE

July 28, 2025

The physical nature of our Charity Challenges mean aches, injuries and common complaints often occur, due to exertion over long days, tough terrain and intense effort. These hurdles are a natural part of the experience – and part of what makes it a real ‘challenge’! Thankfully, most can be managed or prevented with proper preparation and awareness.

Using our industry knowledge and team’s experience, we’ve listed the eight most common of these complaints below, to help you understand what causes them and how to effectively avoid or handle them…

Common complaints and injuries on challenges. Photo Credit: Fraser Morton.

1. Blisters and Foot Pain

  • Causes: One of the most common side effects of trekking challenges – caused by boots not being worn-in or fitting properly, wearing poor quality socks and sweat, rain and even sand worsening the effects of friction against your feet.
  • Preventions: Ensure your walking boots fit properly and you’ve thoroughly broken them in during training over similar terrain/distances. Tape your feet up with Kinesiology or Zinc-Oxide tape (we recommend SportTape) before setting off to keep blisters at bay and opt for high quality socks, such as Bridgedale’s.
  • Team Tips: Ensure there is half to a full thumbs width of space at the toe end of your boots to account for swelling in heat and wearing thicker socks. Your feet should not overhang the sides nor should there be excessive space at the sides or heel. Check your boots are in good condition before your challenge – old footwear could fail and fall apart when you need them most! – Phil Nelson, Charity Challenge Leader

Read our Taking Care of Your Feet on Challenges blog for further advice and tips.

man using SPORTTAPE kinesiology tape to prevent blisters, a common complaint and injury on challenges

2. Knee and Joint Pain

  • Causes: Knee and joint pain often flares up on long descents due to repeated impact and strain. Over time, this pressure can lead to inflammation or discomfort, especially if muscles around the joints aren’t well-conditioned.
  • Preventions: Strengthen the knee’s surrounding muscles through regular training and targeted exercises. Practise good down-hill walking techniques, including using walking poles to help support you. You can also use Kinesiology Tape to help support your joints, watch SportTape’s videos here. Ibuprofen gel and painkillers are handy to carry to reduce pain.
  • Team Tips: A helpful trick is to lead with your weaker leg on descents. It might feel counterintuitive, but it means your stronger knee does the work of lowering and absorbing the impact. – Penny Knight, Charity Challenge Leader
Trekker using walking poles on his charity a challenge to help his knees and joints -   a common complaint and injury on challenges

3. Back and Shoulder Strain

  • Causes: Often a result of carrying a heavy or poorly fitted daypack over long distances. Uneven weight distribution, incorrect strap adjustment or overpacking can put extra stress on your muscles and posture.
  • Preventions: Pack smartly! Read your Kit List thoroughly, as well as our blog on where to start with daypacks. Choose a well-fitted daypack with padded shoulder and hip straps, and adjust them so most of the weight sits on your hips (you’ll feel the difference!). Pack light and distribute the weight evenly.
  • Team Tips: Try on before you buy or borrow. Having the waist and chest straps at the correct height will make a massive difference to your comfort on the challenge. – Simon Albert, Charity Challenge Co-Founder and Director
charity challenge trekkers with their daypacks

4. Fatigue and Breathlessness

  • Causes: Tiredness and shortness of breath are common on long treks and steep ascents. Trekking at high altitudes can increase this effect, as the oxygen levels are lower, meaning that the body is working harder, even at rest.
  • Preventions: Maintain a steady walking pace, take regular breaks and stay hydrated. Eat small, frequent snacks to fuel your energy and practice deep, rhythmic breathing – especially during climbs. If your trek involves high altitude, consider training beforehand and read our Altitude Advice guide from our expert partner, The Altitude Centre.
  • Team Tips: Failing to eat properly during a challenge can hinder performance. Whilst helpful for a boost, don’t rely solely on energy gels and protein bars and neglect regular food, such a full, balanced lunch. This could result in significant calorie deficits, leading to increased fatigue and reduced performance. – Phil Nelson, Charity Challenge Leader
trekker staying fuelled an hydrated with food and water

5. Sunburn

  • Causes: Sunburn is a common issue on charity challenges, especially ones at high altitudes, on water, snow or in hot, exposed climates – where UV rays are stronger and prolonged exposure is likely. However, it’s easy to underestimate the risk of sunburn in the UK, but it should be taken just as seriously.
  • Preventions: Apply minimum SPF 30, sweat-resistant sun cream regularly, wear a wide-brimmed hat, UV-protective sunglasses and cover exposed skin with breathable, long-sleeved clothing.
  • Team Tips: An SPF 30+ lip balm or sun cream stick protects your lips and other smaller areas at risk, such as your scalp/parting, backs of your hands and tops of your ears. – Laura O’Connor, Marketing Assistant
Trekker wearing sun hat on Dalai lama Himalayan trek

6. Dehydration, Heat Exhaustion or Heat Stroke

  • Causes: Prolonged physical activity in hot or humid conditions, especially without adequate fluid intake, fuel or rest. Wearing heavy clothing, a lack of shade and poor pacing can also contribute.
  • Preventions: Stay well-hydrated throughout the day, sipping regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Adding electrolytes to your water can boost hydration. Pace yourself and take regular breaks in shaded areas (this is also a chance to reapply sun cream), and wear lightweight, breathable clothing.
  • Team Tips: Applying a wet item of clothing to the skin can help cool you down. Our Charity Challenge neck buffs are perfect for this! – Jenn Payne, Head of Sales and Marketing
Sahara Desert Trekkers resting under shade to reduce trekking fatigue and heat exhaustion

7. Insect Bites

  • Causes: Insect bites can occur on both UK and overseas challenges, particularly in warm, humid environments or areas near standing water. Mosquitoes, midges and ticks are common culprits depending on location and season.
  • Preventions: Use insect repellent containing DEET and reapply as needed. Wear long sleeves and trousers, especially in the evening or near dense vegetation. In tick-prone areas, check your skin regularly and remove ticks promptly with proper tools – your local guide will be able to help. For overseas travel, always check if antimalarial precautions are needed.
  • Team Tips: To soothe insect bites on a challenge, clean the area, apply an anti-itch cream or antihistamine, avoid scratching and if possible, apply a cool compress. – Laura O’Connor, Marketing Assistant
trekker wearing long sleeves in the jungle to prevent insect bites

8. Mental Fatigue and Low Motivation

  • Causes: Emotional strain is common, particularly on longer challenges. Overseas trips can intensify this due to unfamiliar environments, more basic facilities and lower-quality rest.
  • Prevention: Preparing mentally and physically ahead of your challenge will set you up for success. Knowing you’ve trained well can strengthen your mindset, even when it gets tough. Practise positive self-talk, and remind yourself why you signed up. At the end of each day, don’t hesitate to take a quiet moment for yourself if needed. Equally, connecting with your fellow participant’s and sharing your stories is a great way to boost morale and help you feel grounded.
  • Team Tips: Don’t be afraid to ask for help when needed, your team and leaders are there to help you! – Tilly Sawyer, Account Manager
charity challengers celebrating with a hug

Prep For Success

Knowledge is power! Your Participant Account Area is the starting point of success and holds a wealth of information. From here, you can study your challenge details, follow our pre-challenge training advice, find our blogs, check your kit list and much more.

Remember, our challenges are leader-led. Our expert leaders are there to support you both physically and mentally. They’re experienced, friendly and first-aid trained – ready to make safety-first decisions for you and your group.

It’s normal to experience some of these common injuries and complaints on challenges. Prepare well, listen to your body, and communicate early to keep small issues from becoming bigger problems. The finish line awaits!

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