Recently I have been setting my sights on another outdoors prize. To be able to knock a 14er off my list of things to do and explore.
I am sure your asking yourself why in the world do I have the desire to hike a 14,000 ft mountain. My answer is why not!
This is not something that I will be able to head out and attack this next Friday. There is a lot of time and preparation that goes into be ready to attack a feat such as allusive 14er. But, I have my heart and mind set, and nothing comes between my goals and success. I am a do it and die trying type of girl. Hey I am Girl vs. Wild.
Listed below are a few basic suggestions for chasing a 14er.
Of course selecting the mountain you will climb is important along with all the fancy gear to go along, but the most important is training your mind and body for the feat ahead. If your mind and body are not on the same train you will never arrive at the top. No matter how fancy and high tech your gear is it just wont happen if your not fully prepared.
First set a date and stick to it. This is the goal you are working towards and all scheduling works around this date. When you train for a goal with a set date you are far more likely to be successful.
Start slow. Keep in mind this is something your training for not do spontaneously in an afternoon.
Your cardiovascular stamina and endurance is very important. In the first weeks of training start out doing a 30-45 minute treadmill workout and gradually add an incline.
At this same time find a good yoga and pilates class. Most gyms offer these and the benefits you will see from attending both classes once a week will help create the total body you will need to accomplish the 14er ahead.
After the first few weeks of training start wearing the pack you indeed to wear climbing. This will acclimate your body to the extra weight.
Gradually over time add weight to your pack. Either items you intend to pack or free weights while at the gym. Start light in the beginning. If your to eager at the start it can lead to being burned out.
You can always take this workout to the outdoors. You are not restricted to the gym. Grab your weighted pack and water for hydration and hit your local walking path or trails. This will give you a better feeling for how the outdoor elements will feel.
After several weeks of training it’s time to hit the stairs. Start rotating stair climbing into your workout. With a weighted pack on hike up and down a flight of stairs for 30 minutes. Also this is a good point to add the boots you plan to wear on your climb in to the equation. Each time you do your stair training or trails wear your hiking boots. It’s imperative to have your boots broken in prior to the big event.
Lastly talk to the pros, take notes, and in the end it’s all about enjoying the great outdoors.
Girl vs. Wild,
Jacquelyn Farris