33 Miles to Palm Sunday

Prepare Your Body

Health Tips

Your body is the instrument of your sacrifice. Train it, protect it, and listen to it.

Walking 33 miles is a serious physical undertaking. Proper preparation in the weeks before the pilgrimage will determine whether you finish strong — or don't finish at all.

Training Before the Pilgrimage

  • ✝Begin training at least 8 weeks before the event with progressive long walks
  • ✝Build up to a 15–20 mile training walk in the final 2 weeks before the event
  • ✝Walk in the shoes and socks you plan to wear on pilgrimage day — no surprises
  • ✝Include back-to-back walking days to simulate cumulative fatigue

Hydration

  • ✝Drink at least 16 oz of water in the hour before the start
  • ✝Aim for 16–20 oz of water per hour during the walk
  • ✝Use electrolyte supplements — water alone is not enough for 33 miles
  • ✝Dark urine is a warning sign — stop and hydrate immediately

Blister Prevention & Care

  • ✝Apply anti-chafe balm to feet, thighs, and underarms before starting
  • ✝Address hot spots immediately — do not wait until a blister forms
  • ✝Carry moleskin and a small needle for draining blisters on the road
  • ✝Change socks at rest stops if your feet are wet

Nutrition on the Road

  • ✝Eat small amounts every 60–90 minutes rather than large meals
  • ✝Prioritize carbohydrates and protein; avoid heavy or greasy foods
  • ✝Do not fast on pilgrimage day — your body needs fuel to complete the walk
  • ✝Eat a substantial meal the evening before the pilgrimage
Weather Hazards

Cold Weather

  • ✝Hypothermia is a real risk when temperatures drop — never ignore persistent shivering, confusion, or slurred speech
  • ✝Dress in moisture-wicking layers; wet clothing against your skin accelerates heat loss dramatically
  • ✝Keep your core warm — a cold core means cold extremities; prioritize your torso over your hands and feet
  • ✝Eat and drink regularly in cold weather — your body burns more calories to stay warm and dehydration is harder to notice
  • ✝If you feel uncontrollably cold, stop walking and get into a SAG vehicle immediately — do not push through

Wind & Wind Chill

  • ✝Wind chill on the open North Texas plains can make 40°F feel like 25°F — dress for the feels-like temperature, not the thermometer
  • ✝A windproof outer shell is one of the most important pieces of gear on a windy day — even a thin one makes a significant difference
  • ✝Protect your face and ears; exposed skin loses heat rapidly in sustained wind
  • ✝Walking into a headwind increases exertion — pace yourself and conserve energy on exposed stretches
  • ✝If wind is strong enough to affect your balance or footing, slow down and walk deliberately

Rain & Wet Conditions

  • ✝Wet feet for 33 miles will destroy your skin — waterproof footwear or gaiters are essential if rain is forecast
  • ✝Change into dry socks at every rest stop if your feet are wet; carry at least two extra pairs
  • ✝A waterproof jacket and pack cover protect both you and your gear — pack them even if rain is only a possibility
  • ✝Wet cotton is dangerous — it loses all insulating value and accelerates hypothermia; wear synthetic or wool only
  • ✝Chafing worsens dramatically in wet conditions — apply anti-chafe balm liberally before starting and reapply at rest stops
  • ✝Watch your footing on wet roads and gravel — slow down on slick surfaces to avoid a fall

When to Stop

  • ✝Chest pain, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing — stop immediately and seek help
  • ✝Signs of heat exhaustion: heavy sweating, weakness, cold/pale/clammy skin — rest in shade and hydrate
  • ✝Signs of hypothermia: uncontrollable shivering, confusion, slurred speech — get warm and seek medical help immediately
  • ✝There is no shame in accepting a ride to the next rest stop — your safety matters
  • ✝SAG vehicles will be available throughout the route for pilgrims who need assistance

Medical Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your physician before undertaking any strenuous physical activity, especially if you have existing health conditions.

Train Hard. Walk Far. Arrive Faithful.

Register Now

Pray Without Ceasing

Walk in His Footsteps

Sacred Heart of Jesus — traditional Catholic devotional painting

Sacred Heart of Jesus

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."

Jesus carrying the cross — traditional Catholic devotional painting

The Way of the Cross

"Take up your cross and follow me." — Matthew 16:24

Blessed Virgin Mary — traditional Catholic Marian devotional painting

Our Lady, Queen of Pilgrims

Pray for us, O Holy Mother of God, that we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.