Training for a Mountain Trip |

By Jennifer Doohan

Adventure is calling and you’ve mustered up the courage to hit the ‘Book Now’ button – amazing! So now what? Ah yes – training! Bookmark this blog for some top tips or inspiration on the lead up to your adventure! 

But first, meet Jennifer Doohan, our esteemed guest blogger, who’s no stranger to the beckoning heights of mountain peaks and the preparation that leads to them. Having conquered the mighty Mt Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa, with Adventurous Ewe, and numerous other summits during her time in Italy, Jennifer’s spirit for elevation is as unyielding as it is inspiring. Not only does she navigate the rocky ascents by boots and endures extensive cycling journeys, but she also brings balance and strength to her adventures through her practice as a Functional Yoga Instructor. Join her as she shares her insights and experiences on behalf of AE in “Training for a Mountain” – a guide that promises to elevate your physical preparation to new heights.

Timing

First things first, how far away is the trek? Generally speaking three months of consistent training 2-3 times per week is sufficient to prepare for a mountain trip, depending on your current fitness and experience level.

Do I need to join a gym? 

No,  but it can help as an external motivator. Working on your strength & mobility whatever your current condition or location is a big YES. More on that to follow!

Distance and Elevation

You said YES to a mountain adventure, so we’re guessing you like going up! Your training should incorporate aerobic, endurance building exercises and some long consecutive hikes. For a detailed breakdown of what to expect check out your personal Adventurous Ewe travel app or the Map & Itinerary section on the website – Georgia Trek. On your training walks aim for similar distances and elevation. If you struggle to find big elevation locally to you, plan in a few long hikes in more mountainous areas of the UK – also the perfect opportunity to test and get used to any new kit.

Kit

Time of year will play a big role in what you squeeze into your backpack. We recommend investing in a decent pair of walking poles. In terms of efficiency of movement you can get your arms involved on the ascent, and on the descent feel more stable and protect your knees too! They take a bit of practice to walk with so here’s a video to help you on your way.

Boots. Arguably one of the most important pieces of your kit! Try to train in the boots you will wear as much as possible. Take them to the stair master in the gym – every experience helps you to learn  more about your kit and how your body responds to it.

Your feet are an important consideration too, pre-taping ‘hotspot’ areas created by your boots can prevent blisters from forming.  Checkout Zinc Oxide tape options like RockTape, Leukoplast etc… For five star foot care most outdoor shops will offer a custom innersole service, giving you personalised foot and arch support. This helps with overall posture on the mountain so you can walk without being distracted by any niggles, especially with a heavy pack on your back.

Speaking of backpacks – another top tip is to train with a fully loaded pack. This will get your body out of its comfort zone, and your spine used to working under a weight which will mean an easier more enjoyable trip!

Fitness

What goes up must come down and it’s good to get your big muscle groups – glutes and thighs, as well as your knees and ankles strong and accustomed to longer ascents and descents.

Think compound* movements such as squats and lunges. These can be done at home or in the gym. The advantage of the gym is the ability to progressively overload the muscles with a bigger range of free weights and static machines.

Appropriate gym equipment to use would a Stair stepper machine, this will improve both cardio and lower body strength. For walking pole practice a ski-erg can be a good go-to piece of equipment too, providing an excellent cardiovascular workout.

If you are seeking a gentler more mindful approach to fitness then a yoga workout can increase your strength in different ways, along with your mobility! It also comes with the benefit of helping you to manage the stressors of everyday life.

Find out more about out training plans here.

Social Workout Ideas

At Adventurous Ewe we understand that travelling with people you have never met before can be a big part of the challenge too. So we provide the opportunity to meet your fellow adventurers during an online workout with fitness & Yoga Teacher Jennifer. This can help with the mental preparation involved in a new challenge and also provide support and motivation too!

Personal Check-in

With Adventurous Ewe being a small family business, we pride ourselves with providing personal, professional and friendly service. We appreciate that everyone has different levels of experience and we’re here to help you every step of the way from the moment you join the flock all the way through to completing the challenge and beyond. Jim and Sue’s knowledge and expertise stems from dozens of years of travelling and exploring the destinations that we visit in order to fully support you in the lead up to your adventure.