Fitness and your hunt:

getting fit (Backpackers especially)

The preparations:

The better your physical condition, the more you will be able to do, and the greater your chance of success. We have guided hunters with varied levels of ability, from elite athletes, to those requiring walking aids. We have had success hunting from horses, on foot, and occasionally a few feet from camp. Our guides will do their best to hunt at a pace you can manage. If you have special medical or physical impediments let us know in advance. Our goal is to provide an excellent hunting experience geared to your abilities. If you are going on a backpacking hunt (i.e. Rocky Mountain Bighorn) then physical condition is very important.

The best way to prepare is to spend time out in the mountains hiking around. Add some weight to your normal hikes, a few pounds at first, followed by heavier backpacking weights. If you are on flatlands try and find slopes or stairs to go up. For those who have an existing exercise routine, focus on a cardiovascular routine with emphasis on leg muscles (steppers, inclined treadmill, bikes). If all else fails, walk to work, or to the corner store. Here are some fitness ideas:

Go for a morning or evening walk (25+ minutes/day)

Take the stairs up and elevator down

Add a weighted pack to a walking/stair climbing routine (start at 10 lbs. and sheep hunters work up to 50lbs)

Go for a morning swim (no weights for this one)

Use a stepper for 20 minutes every 2nd day

Try a treadmill for 25+ minutes, inclined 5-15%, every 2nd day

Ride a bike to work

Park a few miles from work and walk the rest

Park at the far end of the parking lot for a little extra walking

Start your routine as soon as you finish reading this page. Word of caution: Don't over do it. If you don't exercise much, start slow.