Reflections from a Rookie!
“A little over a year ago I made the decision to join Diamonds, a group of inspiring women who I was soon referring to as ‘my tribe.’ From the moment I joined, I realised 3 things – I had found a supportive like minded community, my fitness needed major improvement, and that age is just a number- it is our attitude that really matters.
When the opportunity to go to Japan arose through a cancellation back in June, I read the brief, spoke to Michele and got my hubby’s input. There was plenty of hesitation on my behalf – my fear of flying, aversion to seafood and general fussiness around food, my apprehension towards sharing a room (and a ‘cosy’ one at that, according to the notes) with someone I barely knew. Would my weekly 2 hour trek training plus gym sessions be enough to cut it, plus I thought about how many wet wipes I’d need to pack as there was no way I was planning on following the Japanese tradition of communal showering and bathing. Despite my doubts, and my boss approving my leave (which I kind of secretly hoped she wouldn’t), I took the plunge and booked in for my first multi day hike!
As I write this, I have only been home a few days and it’s difficult to encapsulate in words what the journey was really like. Firstly, what a wonderful group of encouraging women to share the days with. Everyone was on their own path of self discovery, some seeking answers to questions, others looking for inner peace – learning about themselves whilst wanting nothing but the best for each other. My roomie Kath was kind, caring, compassionate and I appreciate every one of the moments we shared from our deep conversations to our belly laughs and all the steps in between.
My dread of having to shower in the same space dissipated by the time we had completed (survived) day 1. I did not have the energy to use an endless number of wipes and was desperate to feel clean. Having sweated buckets throughout the hike and feeling like I’d signed up for a detox program, I succumbed to Japanese tradition fairly quickly.
During our 10 days I learned so much about myself. I went in with the hope of gaining a little more than just a blister and sore legs, and I walked (shuffled) away with so much more. I learned how hard I can be on myself and how awful my self talk is at times. I’d never speak to anyone the way I talk to myself. By challenging my thoughts, not only was I able to think in a more helpful manner particularly when the going got tough, but in turn conserve energy for the hiking. I learned how kind and intuitive the ladies are in this group, through their courageous vulnerability, stories shared, laughs had, and tears shed. Such a strong bunch!
I feel blessed to have been able to trust and feel that reciprocated. I learned that as much as I tried I couldn’t stop the hard stuff from surfacing over hours and hours of trekking and that perhaps this was the time to listen, accept and process things, rather than continually running. I sensed my mum with me on this trip and felt her urging me on, not only to finish the hike but to do it for the both of us.
I learned that while the line “Lets get a photo” may have driven everyone a bit batty at times, these photos are a keepsake I’ll look back on as I reflect on this as one of the best times of my life. I also learned not to take any notice of Michele when she muttered the words “one more little hill”. I learned something from every single one of you and my life is richer for having shared this experience with you all.
Japan did not disappoint and being immersed amongst the spectacular beauty of cedar trees, waterfalls and shrines often took me back to imagining illustrations in Enid Blyton books. My life is better today than it was when I departed from Sydney, and I have you all to thank for that. It was an absolute privilege to have done this trip with you.
Keep shining brightly, Diamonds!”
Dorothy
“Starting ‘City’ Trek Training didn’t seem the right answer for me. I like exercising in the morning and the only available sessions were in the evening. I decided to give it a go. I was also unsure about the “city sessions” because I like the bush. But now I like the variety of bush and urban training and actually love the city sessions as feel like a tourist again!
I’ve achieved my goal of getting back my fitness and confidence for hiking and love the new opportunities to do day trips, weekends away and longer trips with like-minded people!
I’m a regular at evening Trek Training sessions now and last year did my biggest trek yet, hiking the beautiful Walls of Jerusalem NP in Tasmania with a fun team of Diamonds.
On the horizon for 2024 is a multi-day altitude trek in Nepal to the base camp of Ama Dablam.Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.”
Tracy
Why join a Diamond Trip?…Debra tells.
“I have completed three Diamonds trips over the last twelve months. Flinders Ranges, Hump Ridge Track (NZ) and Great Ocean Walk. These trips are always very well and professionally organised with many inclusions. Food (which was of a high quality in NZ) and quite often a single room at the beginning and the end of the trip. To name a few. I feel they are value for money.
The coaches are exemplary. I have travelled with Michele and Jacq twice. I have always felt well taken care of, always given good instruction and felt that I didn't worry about very much at all.
I am always warmly greeted by your members. They look out for each other whether it is a training session or an Adventure. My more recent experience on GOW was a member bringing me a cup of tea in my room without me asking. In addition, I was a little anxious about a beach crossing that had very little risk. I was reassured by Jacq and a member was organised to make sure I was alright. I was quietly moved on both occasions.
Thank you for what you do.”
Diamonds fly in the 2023 City to Surf!
“My 8th C2S proved to be the easiest thanks to Diamonds. I broke heartbreak hill this time and a friend told me you look like to could keep going. You don’t look tired at all!” Julie
“I’ve been in the C2S a few times. But since training with DITRA doing fire trails, climbing mountains and rock scrambling I found it a whole lot easier this year.” Jenny
"I just love being part of the diamond community. You have taken me out of my comfort zone and introduced me to rock scrambling which I love. I've been encouraged to push myself to go faster on the hills (well a bit faster :) I still hang at the back sometimes and chat lol) and no longer dread them. I've rediscovered an inner strength I forgot I had. Most of all I love the camaraderie of everyone involved, the coaches and ladies. I have felt welcomed and encouraged from the start and love the support I have received. I look forward to doing more training and events with the Diamonds."
Jackie
“Before joining Diamonds, I worried about stepping outside my comfort zone. I wanted to take on some challenging treks and be able to continue hiking, including the occasional full-pack multi-day hikes, throughout my 50s. I’ve overcome my fear by just getting on with it and with the aid of lots of well-thought-out guidance and advice. For example, I’m scared of feeling cold, but now I’ve learnt that my gear will keep me dry and warm at night.”
Rachael
“I was worried about joining a new group and not knowing anyone. But everyone is so friendly and helpful… true Diamonds. Building endurance and get more cardio fitness was my main goal and now I have completed a challenging 12 hour day hike and feeling very good about my fitness gains. I love DITRA. The community is lovely, clients and coaches are all delightful and fun to be around. They are considerate and just a fun lot.”
Susie
“Diamonds Trek Training helps me carve out time for myself while improving my fitness level. I love getting out amongst nature & exploring new trails. Since joining I am prepared to give more things a go, like rock scrambling. I’ve had a great year - thank you!”
Ann
I am a beginner and I wanted to improve my fitness level so that I can join some hiking trips. Trek Training improves my mental health and resilience. It was hard at first, waking up at 5am and doing exercises. I’d never rock scrambled before. Now I can manage 2 hours of intense exercises with some breaks in between and my feet and legs are getting used to the uneven surfaces or rocks. I enjoy Kalina’s trek training session so much. I feel excited in the weekdays when I think about diamonds and weekend training.”
Olivia
“Japan was a wonderful experience. I love the challenge of the trek. I love the camaraderie and companionship of DITRA members. What makes this adventure special is the cultural experience of Japan: the people, scenery, beautiful forests, the food and the customs. One not to be missed. One not to be missed with the lovely DITRA members, and great leadership by coach Michele. Due to our pink team shirts in this instance "pink diamonds".
Debra H
“At 60 years of age I came to the group with lots of fear and trepidation, unfit and unused to an active lifestyle. Jo’s training was brilliant giving me confidence, skills and courage to tackle new and exciting adventures. She inspired me to believe in my own abilities. A life-changing experience.”
Mary F
“…I joined not long after a significant personal loss. The hill ahead looked high and too hard to climb. Within a year of regular attendance at training, hope and physical strength renewed, I was easily climbing the alps of Japan and Switzerland.”
Joan S
“Michele is a ‘glass overflowing’ kind of person, exuberant, fun and has an uncanny ability to make us go hard at training even if we are unaware of our energy output.”
Ali S
“…this unique style of outdoor fitness training has allowed me to re-invent myself with new courage, resilience and mental toughness to face life’s challenges. I am truly thankful for such great coaching and mentoring.”
Alison M