Prepare For Hiking With Training Hikes
Training hikes can be a great way to train for your upcoming hike. Are you planning your next hiking adventure and wondering how to prepare for it? In this article, we’ll explore two common approaches to training hikes and provide some tips to help you optimize your training time, reduce injury risk, and improve your comfort.
Approach One: Building Up Distance With Constant Pack Weight
One of the more common approaches to building up to a training hike is to increase the distance and keep the same pack weight. For example, you might start with a 35lb pack and 5-mile hike in week one, then add an extra mile each week until you reach your desired distance and pack weight.While this approach can work, there may be more comfortable or efficient ways to train. It can also increase your risk of injury if you must be more careful.
Approach Two: Simultaneously Increasing Pack Weight and Distance
I favor the approach of gradually increasing both pack weight and distance simultaneously over the course of a training program. For example, you might start with a pack weight of 10-15% of your body weight and a comfortable distance of 6 miles. Over 12 weeks, you’d gradually increase both the pack weight and distance by a mile or two each week until you reach your goal distance and pack weight.
This approach can help reduce injury risk, improve your comfort along the way, and help your body adapt more effectively to the demands of your upcoming hike.
Time-Bound vs. Distance-Bound Training Hikes
Depending on your schedule and availability, you should structure your training hikes around either time or distance. If you need more time or need access to nearby trails, time-bound training hikes can be an effective way to build endurance. Start with a manageable time frame, such as an hour and a half to two hours, and gradually increase it each week while increasing pack weight.
If you have more flexibility in your schedule and access to nearby trails, distance-bound training hikes can be a great way to build endurance and improve your hiking skills. Start with a comfortable distance and gradually increase it each week while increasing pack weight.
Testing Your Gear
One of the best ways to optimize your training hikes is to use the same gear you plan to use on your upcoming trek. Load your pack just as you would for your hike, and ensure it fits comfortably and securely. This is also an excellent opportunity to adjust your gear, such as tightening straps or redistributing weight, to provide a comfortable and efficient hike.
Loaded Pack Walks vs. Training Hikes
Finally, it’s important to note that there is a difference between loaded pack walks and training hikes. Loaded pack walks are shorter workouts with increasing pack weight, typically lasting 45-60 minutes. These can be a great way to build strength and endurance in your legs and core. On the other hand, training hikes are longer workouts with heavier pack weight and increasing distance, typically lasting several hours or more. These are designed to build endurance and improve your hiking skills over varied terrain.
Training hikes can be a great way to prepare for your next hiking adventure. By gradually increasing pack weight and distance over time, you can build endurance, reduce injury risk, and improve your comfort on the trail. Use your gear and make any necessary adjustments if you choose a time-bound or distance-bound approach. With these tips in mind, you’ll be ready to tackle your next hiking challenge confidently and easily.
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