It is raining. Heavy drops hit so hard they bounce back into the air. Cloud hangs over the highest peak, today’s destination. I gather with the small group of women in larger bodies, all facing the same challenge as me, with similar demons whispering into their ears, “You’re too fat, you’re not fit enough, you don’t belong here, you will embarrass yourself … ”
Despite the rain, I am dry, comfortable and well prepared for a day of British weather in the Peak District. For the first time in my 41 years, I am wearing a pair of walking trousers that fit. I have a backpack that is full of kit yet sits correctly, with weight distributed properly. My waterproof jacket not only zips up, but also covers my hips, lower back and is actually waterproof. It may seem odd to mention technical outdoor clothing functioning, but lots of people have to try to enjoy the outdoors in ill-fitting clothes or unsafe kit. Which is why Steph Wetherell, with the support of fellow outdoor enthusiasts Emily Williams, Kumbi Kariwo, Sara Huws and Rebecca Dawson, set up Every Body Outdoors (EBO) – a community campaigning for clothing, gear and representation for larger bodies in the outdoors.
But it isn’t just kit that’s the issue. Although EBO initially came together through shared frustration at not being able to find suitable outdoor clothing, the community soon grew to a safe space for people to share advice, adventures and experiences. In turn, this inspired the team to develop a range of outdoor courses specifically designed for plus-size people, offering not only an opportunity for people to gain more confidence in the hills and mountains, but teaching essential skills such as map reading, route planning, what to do in emergency and understanding what kit one might need.
“Plus-size people can face a lot of barriers when accessing training and skills in the outdoors,” says Steph. “If you’re worried about being slow up hills, needing regular breaks or just feel out of place in outdoors groups, these courses offer an opportunity to upskill, increase confidence and meet some other lovely, larger outdoors lovers.”
While EBO doesn’t set a size restriction, if you are smaller than a UK size 18 or 2XL they ask you to consider if there might be other courses you could attend. I’ve signed up for a “hill skills and navigation” weekend in the Peak District with eight other women, but there are similar courses in Snowdonia and Surrey, and regional walks across the UK. Of course, there are many such courses across the world that anyone can join, but on EBO weekends you’re with people who understand how it feels to live in a bigger body and don’t mind if you are a slow walker, need multiple stops or are struggling. And there’s a kit pool to dip into for those who need it. It’s often these issues, not laziness, that put people off the simple exercise of walking.
Our group is a mix of brilliant women, ranging in age from their 20s to 60s, all of them with big lives outside these hills. They have mixed experience, fitness and ability, but a common feeling of insecurity. “A weekend like this is a mental gamechanger,” says Lucy Crowther, a novice hiker. “Similar walking trips have been tough because not only do you feel like you physically must keep up with everyone, but mentally you spend the whole weekend worried about letting everybody else down. You just don’t enjoy yourself as you spend the whole time worrying!”
Weekend courses begin on Friday evening and finish on Sunday afternoon and, as EBO has a partnership with the YHA (Youth Hostel Association), accommodation is often in a hostel, in shared or private rooms (though you can always stay nearby instead). Some of our group camp at YHA Castleton Losehill Hall, others stay in private rooms, and I opt for a B&B in the local village. Food isn’t included in the price, but there are plenty of options, from cooking your own to the local pubs (our preferred choice).
After a gentle introduction to kit and packing on the first evening, we spend the second day with a mountain leader, learning the basics of map reading, using a compass and planning a route, with some practical exercises outside. The next day it’s time to put what we’ve learned to the test: the group is tasked with planning a route up to Mam Tor, a 517-metre climb near Castleton, and completing it together.
While I already have a good understanding of map reading, navigation and route planning, others release their inner map-geek or discover a new fascination with planning. Together, we plot the route, complete with estimated timings and elevation. Once outside, despite the heavy rain, there’s a relaxed approach to our hike. All of us are aware of where the steep sections will be and how long it might take to overcome them. “No one, no matter how fit and able, likes walking up hills,” says mountain leader Cat Forster. “But understanding how much effort you need to put in, and for how long, can make a huge difference to your enjoyment.”
The circular route, on well-trodden paths, takes about three hours, with plenty of opportunities to stop and learn something new. It’s not easy, but while each of us has difficult moments, none of us carries the usual weight of shame. The slower pace allows time to appreciate the landscape more, too. As we climb the ridge to the peak, the rain clears and the wind picks up. It gusts around us at the top of Mam Tor, but we don’t mind: the smiles of satisfaction in our victory photos say it all.
The trip was provided by Every Body Outdoors. The next Intro to Hill Skills courses take place in the Peak District (20-22 September, £200 including shared accommodation at the YHA) and Surrey (26-27 October, £140 not including accommodation). Bursary places are available. More courses TBC next year
