“If Not Now, Then When?”: How Robin Found Confidence and Connection Through Adventure

Women's Fitness Adventures Member Story How Robin Found Confidence and Connection Through Adventure

Turning 60 is a wonderful milestone to celebrate—a time to reflect on what you’ve accomplished and what’s still waiting to be explored. For Robin, this milestone became the catalyst for something extraordinary: joining Women’s Fitness Adventures and embarking on life-changing journeys of confidence and connection.

“I turned 60 and wanted to do something special and explore Australia,” she shared. Living on a farm with her husband, who isn’t keen on travelling, Robin realised, “It never seemed to be the right time on the farm, so I thought: if not now, then when?”

The moment came when Women’s Fitness Adventures appeared on her social media feed. “It just seemed like it was meant to be! I clicked the button, paid the deposit, and then thought, what have I done? Haha!”

Overcoming Challenges and Building Confidence

This leap of faith led her to join the 100km Adventure Ready Course in 2024 on the Cape to Cape Track in Western Australia. The 100km Multi Day Adventure was the challenge that flung her out of her comfort zone and into an incredible experience that changed her perspective on life, fitness, and connection. 

Read the Triumphant Tale of the 100km Adventure Ready Cape to Cape 2024 here!Jubilant woman feeling confident hiking along the beach in Western Australia holding hiking boots with her feet in cool, clear water.

Before joining Women’s Fitness Adventures, Robin’s fitness routine was minimal. “I used to play different sports, but then injuries, busyness, and excuses got in the way. My fitness level became an occasional walk on the farm,” she explained.

Preparing for the 100km Cape to Cape Adventure required commitment and determination. “I put in the work (I thought), but facing the anxiety of the first day and the first sandhill—I didn’t think I would make it,” she admitted.Robin hiking along the sand embarking on her life-changing journey

However, the support from the CREW made all the difference. “They were absolutely amazing, and every day was such a beautiful experience. The week went by quickly.” Completing the challenge gave Robin a newfound confidence. “It’s given me the courage to travel solo, meet new people, and see our beautiful country.”

Discovering Community and Connection

While the physical challenges were significant, the social connections she formed during the hike were just as impactful. “The first 100km challenge was an awesome experience. We just clicked and connected, and we’ve kept the banter going through the CREW pages on Facebook.”

For Robin, being part of this community has created a sense of belonging. “To be acknowledged and have the Women’s Fitness Adventures CREW virtually visit Perenjori in the Cairns to Bunbury challenge made me feel proud to be part of a unique group.”Women's Fitness Adventures CREW finding Confidence and Connection Through Adventure hiking along the beach together at sunset

Making Time for Herself

Life on the farm is busy, and like many women, Robin often puts others’ needs before her own. Joining Women’s Fitness Adventures was her chance to prioritise herself. “This was my chance to do something for me—to look forward to and give myself a challenge I could achieve solo but still with a like-minded group of women.”

Robin shared that fitness has now become her “lifeline to me time.” She acknowledged that it’s easy to let fitness fall by the wayside but added, “If I don’t try and keep myself fit and healthy, no one else is going to do it for me.”

The structured programs and goals offered by Women’s Fitness Adventures help keep Robin motivated. “Having a goal and the program set is so helpful. You feel like if you don’t put in the effort, you’re not only letting yourself down but the others on the hike as well.”

Experiencing Australia’s Beauty Up Close

One of the greatest joys of joining Women’s Fitness Adventures has been exploring the stunning landscapes of Australia. “We get to see beautiful places up close and learn the history from the wonderful guides. It’s a safe environment where everyone is made to feel welcome and supported, no matter where they come from or what their background is.”

Confident and connected to nature: Robin smiling while up close to nature on a Multi Day hikeFrom the Cape to Cape Trail, to her next planned adventures in the Northern Territory, Tasmania, and even New Zealand, Robin’s confidence and sense of wonder continue to grow.

Advice for Other Women

When asked what she would say to someone considering joining Women’s Fitness Adventures, Robin’s answer is simple: “Just do it!”

“There is always something that can come ahead of your joy—time, money, family, community commitments. But if you don’t commit to an adventure, another year passes by, and the opportunities will start to fade.”

For Robin, the journey begins with that first step. “Once I make the first payment on an adventure, the excitement begins, even if it’s 6 to 9 months away. You’ll feel exhilarated on your return. Time, money, jobs, and family will always be there when you get home.”

Confidence and Connection Through Adventure while hiking

Who Is Women’s Fitness Adventures For?

“Women of any age who want to see some amazing country and immerse themselves in nature and the environment,” Robin enthuses. “It’s a safe way to travel with experienced leaders and a group where you all help and look out for each other.”

Joining Women’s Fitness Adventures at 60 was the beginning of a new chapter filled with personal growth, incredible landscapes, and lifelong connections. Robin’s story is a testament to the transformative power of saying “yes” to yourself.

So, if you’ve ever thought, “One day, I’ll do something like that”, remember her words: “If not now, when?”

Are you ready to say “YES” to yourself?

To learn more about becoming a Member of the Women’s Fitness Adventures Community click here.

Are you ready to find Confidence and Connection through Adventure? Explore our upcoming Multi Day Adventures here.

The end of the hike that transformed Robin and gave her confidence - the Cape Leuwin lighthouse in Western Australia

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Yvonne Shepherd, CEO of Women's Fitness Adventures

Yvonne Shepherd is the Founder & CEO of Women’s Fitness Adventures.

Established in 2014, Women’s Fitness Adventures encourages women to become stronger for life through fitness, adventure and social connection. We do this through our online fitness & hike training programs, thriving online community and our in person multi day adventures in Australia and around the world.

Women everywhere are enjoying the support, friendship and inspiration found inside the Women’s Fitness Adventures community as they connect in real time through our online active adventures that can be done in your location, regardless of where you live.  Your area is our area because we cover every corner of Australia and would love you to join us.

Whether you are ready to go on a hiking adventure right now or it is in the planning, our Hike Training Courses, Masterclasses, Adventure Ready resources and Hike Fitness Programs will equip you with the skills and knowledge to guarantee you success and have the best time ever.

Thanks,
Yvonne

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