The importance of a good preparation

Responsibility and preparation

On this page you can first read more information about responsibilities of both walkers and the organisation with regard to the Four Days Marches. After that the importance of good preparation is discussed, and suggestions for preparations are given.

Responsibility

The events during the ‘Unfinished’ 90th edition of the Four Days Marches in 2006 forced both the organisers and the participants to face the facts. Various bodies, not least the independent investigation commission led by drs. Loek Hermans, pointed out the responsibilities for both the walkers and the organisers of the Four Days Marches.  To ensure nothing is left to chance, these responsibilities are summarised below.

The Nijmegen International Four Days Marches is emphatically a walking achievement event.

Stichting DE 4DAAGSE, as organising body, points out that Four Days Marches participants each have their own, individual responsibility. Walkers take part in the Four Days Marches at their own risk. By registering to participate in the Four Days Marches the participant accepts the regulations and protocols established by the board to ensure the event runs smoothly.

Four Days Marches participants must recognise their own individual responsibility, take all appropriate precautions regarding physical condition, training and preparation, clothing and shoes, food and drink, and effect insurance if necessary.  The decision to abort their participation in the Four Days Marches is also the individual responsibility of the participant. If you have any doubts at all about your health and/or physical condition, consult a doctor!

As organising body, Stichting DE 4DAAGSE accepts no responsibility whatsoever for accidents, including loss of life and any kind of physical or mental injury, suffered by the participant before, during or after the Four Days Marches.
Stichting DE 4DAAGSE accepts no liability whatsoever for any damage to, or loss or theft of property the participant has with him before, during or after the Four Days Marches. The exclusion of liability also applies to all volunteers brought in by or on behalf of Stichting DE 4DAAGSE.

Good preparation

Walking a marathon achievement event like the Four Days Marches requires thorough preparation. It makes good sense to build this up systematically to allow your body to get used to the exertion. This will help avoid injury and disappointment and make walking much more enjoyable.

• Train weekly and gradually increase the distance.
• ‘Listen’ to your body and lower the pace if necessary.
• Remember to train in all weather conditions!
• Make sure you get enough mileage into your training.
• If you have any doubts regarding your health, go for a medical check-up.
• Seek advice on foot care and the right footwear.

When you have any good tips yourself, please e-mail them to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .