FIVE QUESTIONS is where we ask members of the community to talk about how they stay HEALTHY. Michal Kozok has travelled from one end to the other, of all inhabited continents and stays healthy exercising and adventuring.

1. What did you eat yesterday?

I have a Polish background, and my wife is an excellent cook – so I had one of our specialities. “Bigos” is such a classic and hearty Polish dish. It is such a difference to the food I ate during my 14 month Australia crossing. I was often hungry traveling across the desert – that’s why I appreciate nice food even more.

2. What exercise did you do yesterday?

I’m a runner, so I go for a run almost every day. Recently, though, I injured my leg and can’t run long distances for the time being. It’s ironic—I spent over a year covering thousands of kilometers in tough environments without a single injury. But since returning, I’ve had two accidents. First, I was swooped by a magpie and fell into a river, which left me unable to walk for two weeks. Then, I stepped into a hole a dog had dug, spraining the ligaments in my foot.

3. When did you last see a primary health professional?

Yesterday. I’m proactive about self-care and make it a point to schedule regular check-ups and follow-ups. I’m relatively healthy and fit, but I believe in prevention and staying on top of my health.

4. What do you do to improve your mental health?

Exercise is key for me—running always boosts my mood. I also love traveling, and planning trips for myself and my family brings me a lot of joy and gives me something positive to look forward to. In 2013 I crossed South America both on foot and using public transport, and in 2023, spent 14 months travelling 14,400 km from Western Australia, via Uluru, to Wilsons Promontory and up to Cape York all either on foot, bicycle or other non-motorised means. During my travels, I experienced hunger and fear, dingo and snake attacks, accidents, spinifex, snowstorms and blizzards, the humidity of the jungle and river crossings navigating crocodiles.

5. What are your health goals for the next month?

My goal is to cut back on sugar—sweets are my weakness, but I’m disciplined and already limit them to four days a week. My other goal is to get my leg back to full strength so I can increase my running distance again.

Read previous ‘FIVE QUESTIONS’ here