Physical Preparation

We anticipate that you will hike about 16 miles over the course of TREK. The trail covers varying terrains, (up and down with some fairly steep hills). With this in mind, may we recommend each person, youth and adults, who plan to participate, begin a walking routine.

• ·         Go on walks as a family – help each other become more physically fit before trek.

• ·         Gather the necessary belongings and clothing for trek (see packing list).

• ·         Run or walk 2 miles on varying terrain 3 times a week – build up to a 6 mile walk.

• ·         Break in your hiking/walking shoes.

• ·         Get used to drinking 2 liters of water a day (aka “Pre-hydration”).

Fitness Program

We suggest that you begin walking 3 times a week, at least 1-2 miles each time. As your cardiovascular endurance increases, it would be ideal to increase your time and distance. Over the next several months work towards walking 3-5 miles at one time, at least once during the week.

If you do not already have hiking boots or rugged athletic shoes, now is the time to start looking to purchase a pair. By May, you should have secured comfortable hiking boots or rugged athletic shoes, and also begin wearing them on your walk once per week. This way they will be properly worn in by July.

 As mentioned above the terrain that we will hike over will include up and down hills. We suggest when opportunity permits you vary your walking routine to include different levels of difficulty. This will help to condition your body and heart for any challenge we will face on the trek.

As young men and young women leaders, as well as families please help our youth make a fitness plan and find ways that you might check on their progress and encourage their success. This could include making fitness charts, pairing up with a fitness buddy, and planning some day/evening hikes as the weather improves in the Spring for mutual activities. We want everyone to have a positive experience, and being prepared is the first step in that direction.