Hiking- exercises and nutrition?

BOOMSHAKER · May 12, 2008

I am asking this for my sister who will be going on a hicking trip with her son in June. She asked me these questions but I would much rather ask those of you folks who hike or have hiked and gotten ready for it. These are he exact questions:

First question regarding the workout, what types of a workout should I be doing to physically prepare for the climb?

I have not been in the gym for a month. I am ready to jump in full speed ahead. Second question, are there certain types of foods that I should be eating to prep our bodies?

If I understood correctly we will be climbing in an altitude of approximately 8000. The group has already hiked small mountains but this will be my first real one. Any advise you can give me will be very much appreciated.

(any advice you guys and gals have for my sister would be greatly appreciated and I will pass it on, thanks)

fsm · May 13, 2008

If you are going to be backpacking, the best training you can do is fill up your pack, put on your hiking boots and start going for hikes in your neighborhood. start small so that you can check out the fit of your pack and boots. Add a little time each day. The more you prepare, the more enjoyable it will be.
btw, 8000 feet is pretty high up so take it easy, a whole lot less oxigen up there.

I am looking forward to going on my first hike this season this coming weekend.

Ashop · May 13, 2008

fsm said:
If you are going to be backpacking, the best training you can do is fill up your pack, put on your hiking boots and start going for hikes in your neighborhood. start small so that you can check out the fit of your pack and boots. Add a little time each day. The more you prepare, the more enjoyable it will be.
btw, 8000 feet is pretty high up so take it easy, a whole lot less oxigen up there.

I am looking forward to going on my first hike this season this coming weekend.

starting out small is great advice.

MilitaryMuscle · May 13, 2008

as far as foods i think it would be a good idea to bring things like trail mixes(dried fruit/nuts), beef jerey, protein powder/LBA's ,tuna maybe.. Since they can be easily packed an not take up a lot of space/weight. Plus the bring a lot of nutrients and should maintain energy while hiking.

But the other advice is good to. Maybe start doing some long duration cardio to, on the stepmill to help with the legs and endurance. But shouldnt be doing it to close to the hike because youll want fresh legs. Cut it out maybe a week prior.

Just an idea.

JAG · May 13, 2008

If you are going to be backpacking, the best training you can do is fill up your pack, put on your hiking boots and start going for hikes in your neighborhood.

Great advise. I THOUGHT I was in great shape last year before I set off on a week long hike on the Appalachian Trail with a 60lb pack.