Paul Skivington – Buffalo Systems Brand Ambassador – Hard 75 Challenge

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14th April 2021

At Buffalo Systems we love a good challenge that pushes individuals to discover more about themselves both physically and mentally. Both are of equal importance to a balanced and happy mind in the world we live in today.

We caught up with our new Brand Ambassador Paul Skivington following the completion of his Hard 75 Challenge to find out more about the challenge, what it’s taught him, how it challenged him and what he plans to do for his next adventure.

 

Hi Paul – Well done on the completion of the Hard 75 Challenge. Can you tell me a little bit about the challenge and what first inspired you to complete this?

The Hard 75 is a challenge that lasts for 75 days! The rules of the challenge are:
1. Following a diet: I followed intermittent fasting, no sweets, cake or biscuits!
2. Workout twice a day for at least 45 minutes per workout. One workout has to be outside:
I walked every day and did a variety of other workouts, including a 10 km run. My first
proper run in over 20 years.
3. Read 10 pages of a non-fiction book: I’ve read the Wim Hof, SAS survival, Philosophy
and Atomic Habits.
4. Drink lots of water
5. Take a progress photo.

All these have to be completed daily and if you miss one, you have to start again from day one! I like to challenge myself at the start of a new year, I saw the hard 75 on Facebook and knew it was for me. It’s been hard (hence the name) but this challenge has truly changed my life.

 

Sounds pretty epic, Out of 75 days there must have been some pretty special moments. What would be the top three?

 

Running 10km for the first time was very special, as I hadn’t run any distance since losing my leg.
Being made an Ambassador for Buffalo was a very special moment for me as it was completely off the back of my social media.
Pushing myself daily to walk, I managed 12 km yesterday. Not too bad for an Above Knee amputee.

 
What has been the hardest part of the Covid lockdown for you and how have you put in place steps to help mitigate any negative impacts that you could potentially feel?

The closure of my local boxing club (where I coach and workout) and the closure of my Jiujitsu club where I trained 3-4 times per week. This was a huge change, but I was fortunate enough to be able to build a gym in my garage. The garage gym was very convenient for the second workout. Also homeschooling was very rubbish.

 
Ha – I think alot of parents out there are feeling your pain! Can you give any indications of what’s next for you on the challenge front?

I have signed up for a 21 mile hike in the Brecon Beacons in July. This will be the furthest I have walked in over 20 years.

 
That sound fantastic – the Brecon Beacons is such a stunning part of the UK to complete a challenge of that nature in. Good luck with all your training for this. As an active outdoor enthusiast with a ton of experience – what advice would you give youngsters wanting to get started with their own challenges and adventures?

Set goals and work towards them, learn to read a map and enjoy being outside in all weather conditions.

 
You have so much passion for the Buffalo Systems brand. Where did this all start, and have you got any favorite garments from the range from over the years?

My love for Buffalo started whilst in the Army, many a cold night was made bearable because of my Buffalo jacket. My wife bought me a new Special 6 shirt for Christmas. The Special 6 is without a shadow of a doubt my favourite item of clothing.

 
Nice – An absolute classic and for good reason. Finally Paul, Why did you want to get involved with Buffalo Systems?

Pre-lockdown I would go sea swimming in every season, I especially enjoy swimming in the Winter. A special 6 shirt is the best bit of kit to put on post Winter swim. I love Buffalo because it’s a great Brand and the gear is dependable. I am very excited and honoured to be a brand ambassador.

 
Thanks Paul, much appreciated – Good luck with the new Brecon Beacons challenge!

We will of course keep you updated on Paul training for this and the event itself.