In early 2026, the Second Wind Club community organized a two-day mountain trip to the Carpathians in winter for military personnel and veterans with amputations.
The purpose of the trip was to train in winter mountain conditions, adapt to difficult terrain, and develop physical endurance and psychological resilience.
Seventeen Ukrainian defenders with varying levels of amputation and physical fitness took part in the event. On the first day, the group climbed from the Zaroslyak sports base to the weather station.
The next day, the participants were divided into groups according to their experience and training. The most trained participants climbed Ukraine’s highest peak, Hoverla (2,061 m).
Difficult weather conditions posed a serious challenge: the snow was up to two meters deep in some places, and the route had to be laid out literally step by step.
The participants worked with ice axes and trekking poles, practicing teamwork and movement skills in a challenging winter environment.
Among the participants was Levitate ambassador Christopher Greenwood, a British military veteran who has a below-knee amputation and uses an active Levitate Forever prosthetic foot.
“Mountain trips are not only physical exercise, but also an important element of recovery through movement, nature, and community support,” says the veteran.
The organizers emphasize that such events are part of a systematic approach to the rehabilitation of veterans with amputations. They help restore connection with one’s own body, strengthen confidence in movement, and form a community where mutual support is no less important than physical training.
“Mountains are honest. They don’t ask who you are. But they always make you feel that it’s easier with those you trust. Even when it’s hard,” says Second Wind Club.
Second Wind Club is a community for military personnel and veterans with prosthetics who want to lead an active life and play sports.
To join the club, simply fill out a short form at: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd2lze1ASMiYsfTfqjDjXOob0OWR1RJv68mDEtq_T9OLCi7-Q/viewform