take the test first aid in freezing weather

Think you would know how to respond to an emergency in bitterly cold conditions? Let Army Cadets National Ambassador Jordan Wylie MBE put your first-aid knowledge to the test.

Army Cadets National Ambassador Jordan is a bestselling author, extreme adventurer, former soldier and one of the stars of Channel 4’s BAFTA-nominated shows Hunted and Celebrity Hunted.

In 2018, he completed a challenge called Running Dangerously which raised more than £35,000 for charity and saw him return to three conflict zones (Iraq, Somalia and Afghanistan) where he had either served as a soldier or worked as a private military contractor. He ran marathons in each country.

Building on this incredible feat, in 2020 he started a new challenge called Running Dangerously Polar Edition in which he set out to run marathons in each of the ten coldest countries on the planet in aid of the charity Frontline Children. Read all about his coldweather adventures so far then turn the page to take the first-aid test.

How is Running Dangerously Polar Edition progressing?

It should have finished three years ago but, due to the global pandemic and the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, like most adventures things haven't gone exactly to plan!

Where have you run so far?

I've run in Siberia, Antarctica, Greenland, Lapland, Iceland, Yukon in Canada and Alaska in the US (although that one got terminated after 10 miles due to an avalanche warning). This year I'll head to Svalbard in Norway, the North Pole and Outer Mongolia.

Why did you want to do it?

It’s always about the adventure! I don’t worry about times or records when running; I focus on enjoying it and being present. I often stop during the event to admire the landscape, the animals and the wilderness because I just want to enjoy the challenge, regardless of how difficult the conditions may be.

What do you enjoy about running in the extreme cold?

The invigorating feeling of cold air on the skin, the sense of accomplishment from pushing through the elements, being immersed in the great outdoors and the opportunity to experience the most epic snowy and icy landscapes.

What's least enjoyable?

The discomfort of being cold, the potential for frostbite or hypothermia, and the increased risk of injury on slippery surfaces.

How do you prepare to run in freezing conditions?

It’s important to properly prepare for cold-weather running by dressing in layers and learning to regulate your body temperature, wearing appropriate gear, and keeping an eye on the weather forecast to ensure your safety – which should always be your main priority.

How do you keep upbeat during a marathon?

It’s about having a sense of gratitude wherever I go. I don’t come from a wealthy family, nor do I earn lots of money, so I see every adventure as a great privilege. I often drift into thought when I’m running. When things get really tough, I think about friends, family and loved ones who are no longer with us and what they would do to take a few more breaths or to live a little longer.

Why is gratitude important?

It can improve mental and physical health, increase resilience and enhance social relationships. Expressing gratitude can increase feelings of happiness, reduce stress, anxiety and depression and increase overall life satisfaction.

Gratitude helps me foster a more positive outlook on life, helping me focus on what I have, rather than what I lack. I know I'm super lucky to travel the world on a monthly basis, so I never take it for granted.

Advice for new runners?

Start slowly and build up gradually, invest in a good pair of running trainers and set realistic goals.

Pay attention to how your body feels when you run so you are mindful of any pain or discomfort. That's really important to help you avoid injury. Mix it up and keep things interesting by running in different locations or incorporating other types of exercise into your routine. Remember, running should be enjoyable and safe so don't put too much pressure on yourself – have fun!

What's the best way to stay motivated when starting running?

Setting realistic goals will give you something to work towards and motivate you to keep going. Find a fellow cadet, friend or family member who also wants to take up running. This will make the experience more enjoyable and you'll have someone who will hold you accountable – and you can do the same for them.