Scrambling is far more of a full-body workout than walking, but you don’t need to be able to do more than five pull-ups to do it. Having said that, the best way to prepare is undoubtedly a few visits to your nearest indoor climbing wall – not so much to build strength but to alert your muscles to the impending action.

Most walls offer introductory sessions for which all equipment can be hired, and you‘ll be safely secured to a fixed rope. Think of it as a Fun Factory for grown-ups. A few sessions will teach you a lot about balance and vertical movement, and how it’s much more about your legs (which are strong already) than your arms.