Day 2, Champneys boot camp, Henlow Grange.

I suffered a major setback today.

After our 7am power walk, and the best breakfast I have ever had (more on this later), we headed for a local playing field to play Kwik Cricket, but a modified version which involved all team members running with their fellow boot camper who was batting.

During the warm up exercise when I was teamed with a very enthusiastic and energetic  book camper, I suddenly felt a sharp spasm and terrific pain in my calf as we teamed up and he had to push me back, pulling either a muscle or ligament. I was in excrutiating pain, and imagined the worst, that I would have to sit out most of the future activity events for the rest of the week.

However, I was having none of it, and thanks to some advice on stretching from trainers Richard and Lewis, a session on the spa’s Vibrogym and some infra-red treatment, the application of  muscle relaxant gel, Ibuprofen, the loan of a heat wrap given to me by a very kind trooper here, as well as a full body massage, I feel I am now on the road to recovery.

I am still limping slightly, but I joined in circuits and pilates , and am looking forward to a long walk tomorrow which will take place, come rain or shine, I am told.

All our meals are calorie counted to total 1500 throughout the day, while men are allowed an extra 200 calories. So one of the breakfast menu choices totally surprised and delighted me, a full cooked breakfast comprising of a turkey fillet, two poached eggs, half a dozen mushrooms and rye bread. It was scrumptious. I was surprised to discover that it contained the same calories as the muesli and porridge also on offer. I have never had turkey for breakfast before, and I’ll certainly choose this choice again tomorrow if it is still on the menu.

Talking of food, it’s time to get ready for dinner now. And I think I deserve it!

*I am a guest of Champneys.