Backpacking Training

Many backpackers pay a lot of attention to their gear but pay little or no attention to their own body. Properly training before going on a backpacking trip can greatly reduce the risk of injury, and help you enjoy your trip. Before beginning any training program should get approval, and a check up from your physician.

Good aerobic conditioning and a strong body are the keys to a safe and rewarding backpacking trip. Exercises should be performed to strengthen your feet, ankles, and back. If you have weak ankles you will still have problems even if you have good boots. Practice calf raises barefoot on a wood floor to strengthen your toes and entire foot. Perform exercises to strengthen your back since it will be under additional stress during your trip. Instead of just performing regular cardiovascular exercises, load up a backpack with the weight you expect to be carrying on the trail go for short training walks. Gradually increase the distance of your training walks. It is amazing how gradually your body gets accustomed to the added weight, until eventually you hardly notice it.

Visit Lightweight Backpacking 101 for additional training tips if you are new to backpacking.

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