On a high – Lions Prep founder takes on Mount Kilimanjaro

Earlier this month, our CEO and founder, George Taylor , set himself an epic challenge. To not only test his physical strength and resilience but of his mind too.

He completed the mammoth challenge of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro – the highest mountain in Africa and the tallest freestanding mountain in the world. What an achievement!

Never one to shy away from a challenge and a true believer in approaching all things with a positive approach, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro was one of George’s biggest accomplishments in his life.

We are firm believers at Lions Prep in feeding the body with the best nutrition to feel the benefits, both physically and mentally.

With this in mind, we asked George to share a little bit of insight into his mental health journey before, during, and after his incredible journey.

What inspired you to climb Mount Kilimanjaro??I would say I am very adventurous and always looking for new challenges. So, when someone suggested climbing the highest mountain in Africa, I thought, why not? It was an offer that I couldn’t refuse.

How did you prepare physically? I consider myself to be quite a sporty and active person, however it was still important for me to include extra hiking and cardio-focussed routines into my workouts in preparation. It all depends on your fitness levels, but I suggest maybe starting training around six months in advance.

How did you prepare mentally? While climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is of course a physically challenging activity, the mental impact is on another level. The most important thought throughout the process was finding my ‘why?’. The reason for completing the climb is what drives you forward. More so while climbing at night. The long, hard, uphill walk can feel endless – but it is your emotional strength that keeps you going.

What was the most challenging part of your experience? I think being so far away from home, living in uncomfortable tents, and climbing in the freezing cold temperatures. It was hard to sleep, and I would usually only get three hours of rest each night, as the conditions were so intense. Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is just as much of a mental challenge as it is a physical one.

How did you stay motivated mentally when things got difficult physically? I had to remember to drink a lot of water, walk slowly, and of course, keep my mind in a positive space. As I was walking at such a high altitude, the slower you walk, the easier it is to balance out acclimatisation.

Also, as you move at a slower pace, you can become more mindful of your breathing. Taking deep, calming breaths helps fill your lungs with enough oxygen to keep on moving.

How can taking on such a huge challenge impact your mental health? There is a lot of emphasis on the physical impact when it comes to climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. But arguably, I think the mental aspect is just as, if not, even more extreme.

However, it's important to think: what brought you out here to Africa to complete this huge challenge? You will have your unique reasons for completing this challenge, which will be your drive for when things get more difficult.

Always stay in a positive mindset and appreciate your surroundings too. This is an unforgettable journey, surrounded by the beauty of being on this great mountain. It truly is an experience you will never forget.

Biggest learnings? Putting myself through the challenge of tackling Mount Kilimanjaro was?one of?the best adventures I have ever experienced. I was able to learn more about myself, and what my mind was capable of, as well as get out of my comfort zone. It has helped me to realise that I can achieve anything I set my mind to.

Would you recommend doing it and why? This was an incredible and life-changing trip. I made amazing friends on the climb and woke up every day appreciating the surroundings of the mountain. This is an experience that I will remember for the rest of my life. If you have the opportunity to take on this challenge, I would strongly recommend you go for it.