In light of my note last week regarding fitness funk, RC Carla, sent me the following:
It has a LOT of great information about how you can specifically train your body for the trials of the trail.
Training has many benefits, for all arenas of your life. Many think they can hit the trail without the fitness level to match the trek. I have been this person. In 2007, I took part in an Introduction to Mountaineering class on Mt. Baker, in the Cascade range of Washington state. For six days, I was cramped, exhausted, sore and stiff. It lessened not only my experience, but in mountaineering it could have very easily come down to someone else's life on the line...and my body too weak to assist. After that course, feeling as if I was the one slowing everyone down, I vowed to train hard for any other endeavors. What a difference it made mountaineering in Ecuador the next year! I felt I was one of the strongest on the team, which made for a MUCH more enjoyable climb.
In addition to some of the ideas they listed, I started wearing a loaded pack everywhere I went. (Yes, this led to questions at the gym and on the street. Even a "go back to Alaska" from a driver) I just gradually increased the weight and length of time wearing it. My FAVORITE way to train, especially for you gym rats, is a loaded pack on the stair climber. There's nothing like 60 pounds on your back, climbing stairs for an hour and a half, while everyone in the gym looks at you like a nut job. :)
I also like the timeliness of this advice with regard to the previous discussion on trekking poles. When it comes to gadgets and gizmos, remember they are no substitute for keeping your body in shape. Trekking poles have their place and can certainly lengthen your hiking life, but having a body in good working order is equally, if not more, important.
Thanks, Carla!
