Great, you’ve signed up to climb a really big mountain. Now what?
Personally, I start with a word document, excel sheet or blank piece of paper. Whatever your style is, get something to write a training and preparation plan out on. How will you train? What gear do you have or still need? Keep track of all of this.
First: Determine how far out you are from departing for your adventure. In other words, how long do you have to train? 6 months? 2 months?
Second: Have the guiding company you’re traveling with send you a specific list of gear that you’ll need for your trip. Personally, I like to print out my gear lists and check my items off one by one as I acquire them.
Third: Get all the stats. How many miles will you cover over how many days? And what will the elevation gain be for each of those days? Say for example that you’ve chosen to climb Aconcagua, the highest mountain in South America, measuring in at 22,837 feet. Round trip the mileage is roughly 40 miles with a vertical gain of 13,825 feet. However, that does not include carries from camp to camp.
So, how do you physically train for your expedition?
Most high mountain expeditions move at 2000 to 3000 elevation gain per day. Try your best to replicate the mileage and elevation gain you will be experiencing on the mountain twice to three times a week.
If you live near mountains, climb them. Test the gear you’ll be using. Break in those mountaineering boots even if you don’t have snow in your area. And if you don’t live near mountains, go to the gym with a full pack and get on a stair stepper. Train with slightly more weight than you’ll be using on the mountain. Altitude makes everything harder
Many climbers often underestimate the physical endurance it takes to be on a mountain day after day. Set up your tent. Go camping. Practice your systems. Even down to the food you may be eating on the mountain.
Remember, all individuals are different when it comes to training. Reach out if you want an individualized training plan for your adventure with us!