The fitness profile

Having now booked all our accommodation there is little chance for backing out. Priorities are evolving. Although we may all consider ourselves reasonably fit the question still remains as to whether we are fit enough to complete the C2C. On that front we have decided to use the next few months to set some markers. We know we can cope with the six-miler on the flat, now it's a question of the sixteen-miler (probably still on the flat), with additions of six miles with ascents and descents building up to the sixteen, seventeen, eighteen milers with ups and downs. The walk profile above shows the extent of the issue - the 40-60km section has three ascents at the 600m mark (~2000ft) and one at 80km at 760m (~2500ft). Then there are a few other bumps on the way. Any one of these, on any one day, would be no cause for concern, but the repetition sounds caution - and blisters and the like must be diligently avoided.
On the kit front we are all purchasing new waterproofs - the walk will not stop for the weather - as well as some 'stay-dry' bags to hold kit within rucksacks.Walking boots will be used until they become slippers, and new walking socks will probably be acquired as well. Next job - route checking.