A very common question that grips every beginner trekker or even those who have been to some short treks is, how to prepare for a trek? Yet most of them fail to ask this question or get an apt answer.
Trekking has been increasingly confused with a leisure activity, that can be done with little preparation or at least that is what is wrongly believed, in part owing to the popular culture prevalent in the media. Trekking is actually an adventure activity or a rather slow adventure sport, that has certain risks associated, and need adequate preparation to practice.
When it comes to preparation for a trek there can be 4 different aspects to it, physical preparation, mental preparation, preparing your gear & preparing a detailed trek plan. While the last one is taken care of by organizers in group treks, if you are not trekking alpine style (self sufficient trekking that requires you to carry all your equipment, food etc), the other three aspects are all very important.
Physical preparation for a trek involves engaging in exercises that help build endurance and strength for a trek. It would not require you to hit gym regularly and a few basic exercises combined with persistence, can really help you conquer even really challenging treks.
Running – Running is the gold standard of exercises that you can practice to prepare yourself for a trek. It focuses on all the muscles that you engage during a trek. Furthermore, it really helps develop your lung capacity and improves your heart strength, which are both crucial for any high altitude trek, as the thinning air will require your lungs and heart to overwork constantly.
Start running at least 1 month prior to your trek, covering up-to 15 KM in the first week in 4 or 5 running days and building it up-to 20 to 25 KM in the 4th week in just as many running days.
While swimming and cycling can be good add-on’s too, focus primarily on running.
Cardio– Cardio exercises are aimed at increasing your heart rate and are really great at increasing lung capacity and toning the muscles to improve endurance. Hiking can itself be considered a type of a cardio exercise that involves weight-bearing. Climbing stairs is a very basic cardio exercise that mimics trekking. Add it to your post running schedule and it will really help prepare you for your trek.
Another variation to running that can really help you is to run on slopes, i.e. uphill. If you have a bridge nearby or natural trails with slopes, it can work in your favor considerably. Trail running is a great way to enhance fitness along with coordination while under physical exertion.
While physical preparation is important, a considerably important aspect that is overlook when it comes to preparing for a trek is – Preparing Mentally.
Mental preparation is especially very crucial for first time trekkers, and it involves everything including setting expectations, that is knowing a bit about what to expect during a trek, in terms of climatic conditions, sleeping inside a tent, or even how to go for a loo in the outdoors. Trekking involves being out of your comfort zone for an extended duration of time and thus setting the expectations is a really important step towards preparing yourself mentally. Some important but basic points to be aware are –
Often first time trekkers fail to inform about any signs of sickness due to hesitation when they see others fairing rather well. This only leads to a situation that worsens over time. It is a big mistake that must be avoided at all times.
When it comes to clothing learn to understand the concept of Layering – where multiple layers are used based on the weather conditions and pack accordingly
Other basic amenities to carry
Tip: If you plan to trek regularly, invest in a Hydration bag. It makes drinking water easier & consistent, which can have very positive impact on your pace while trekking, as it helps avoids dehydration.
Uttarakhand Treks | treks in Uttarakhand | Treks from Dehradun | trekking in Dehradun | Trekking companies in Dehradun | Har Ki Dun trek | Bali Pass trek | Phulara Ridge Trek | Kedarkantha Trek| Dayara Bugyal trek | Gaumukh Tapovan trek | Kashmir Great Lakes trek | Valley of Flowers trek | Nag Tibba Trek
August 30, 2024
Read more
September 10, 2024
Read more
August 16, 2024
Read more
August 16, 2024
Read more
July 22, 2024
Read more
July 22, 2024
Read more
July 17, 2024
Read more
May 10, 2024
Read more
March 28, 2024
A complete guide about the beautiful Himalayan village named Sankri. This article contains all the details that you need to know about Sankri. The best treks from Sankri, The best accommodation in...
Read moreMarch 20, 2024
A comprehensive guide for trekkers and adventure enthusiasts curious about the structure of a customized trekking program. This article outlines all the facilities provided within our customized trekking programs.
Read moreMarch 14, 2024
A complete guide about the best places to visit near Mussoorie, the famous picnic destinations in Mussoorie, best trekking places near Mussoorie
Read moreMarch 11, 2024
A complete guide about the best places to visit near Dehradun, the famous picnic destinations in Dehradun, best trekking places near Dehradun
Read moreFebruary 2, 2024
A complete guide to the most popular and famous National parks of Uttrakhand, India along with the trekking destinations associated with them.
Read moreSeptember 28, 2023
Trekking in the Himalayas offers a unique experience, combining imposing peaks, serene valleys, and diverse cultures. Preparation and safety are crucial.
Read moreSeptember 25, 2023
Explore the divine heights of the Indian Himalayas with our guide to the 14 Best Destinations for Spiritual Trekking.
Read moreSeptember 22, 2023
Explore the pros and cons of solo and group trekking in the majestic Himalayas to find out which suits your trekking style best.
Read moreSeptember 22, 2023
Discover stunning treks to do in Himalaya in October, November, and December in India.
Read moreSeptember 18, 2023
Explore our comprehensive guide to Himalayan Trekking Permits, designed for adventurers like you.
Read moreSeptember 18, 2023
Discover the top trekking places in Kashmir featuring stunning lakes and towering peaks.
Read moreAugust 23, 2023
Prepare well for beginner Himalayan treks: essentials, best routes, high altitudes, fees, and cultural immersion for a secure adventure.
Read moreAugust 18, 2023
Discover the causes, symptoms, prevention strategies, and effective treatments for Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
Read moreAugust 16, 2023
Explore Himachal's stunning landscapes with thrilling Manali treks. Experience extraordinary walks amidst magnificent mountains and serene roads.
Read moreAugust 14, 2023
Explore Uttarakhand's stunning weekend getaways with short treks, immersing yourself in nature's beauty and adventure on these breathtaking trails.
Read moreAugust 9, 2023
Discover the toughest and most difficult treks in India and test your endurance in the breathtaking landscapes of the Himalayas.
Read moreAugust 2, 2023
Maintaining camp hygiene and sanitation safeguards health, environment, and water sources, ensuring an enjoyable, compliant, and safe camping experience.
Read moreJuly 25, 2023
Sonamarg, in India, captivates with its stunning landscapes. Nestled in Kashmir, it's a serene haven for nature and adventure enthusiasts.
Read moreJuly 24, 2023
Nanda Devi National Park, in Uttarakhand, India, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning Himalayan landscapes.
Read moreJuly 19, 2023
Discover beginner-friendly treks in India's Himalayas. Experience breathtaking mountain beauty, push limits, and connect with nature in stunning landscapes.
Read moreJuly 18, 2023
The state of Uttarakhand boasts of two of the top three mountains in India. Read the blog to find out about the famous peaks of Uttarakhand...
Read moreSeptember 10, 2021
Garhwal Himalaya offers thrilling treks. Hydration is crucial, and it's essential to drink water regularly, even in colder temperatures.
Read moreFebruary 1, 2024
Why Bali Pass Trek should be your very next trek? The complete guide. This artiucle has answer of almost all your questions.
Read moreFebruary 28, 2023
Har Ki Dun: Popular Trek in Uttarakhand with Breathtaking Views of Himalayan Peaks, Meadows, and Rivers.
Read more