Five Steps to Fitness for Adventure Travel

Adventure travelers can't just hop on a plane and hope we're ready for the rigors of wandering from the beaten path. When I became infatuated with the idea of climbing New Zealand's Mt. Ngauruhoe, I concocted a training regimen that would let me enjoy climbing to 7,520 feet while carrying a fully loaded backpack rather than just surviving it. This active stratovolcano is not to be taken lightly - it stood in Mt. Doom in Lord of the Rings for a reason.

Figuring out my goal (getting through the Tongariro Crossing and getting to the top of Ngauruhoe in 9 hours or less) was the first step. Once you figure out your goal, use your resources to craft a training plan. Here are some of the components of my plan - borrow a few ideas to prepare for your adventure.

Push the Iron

I honestly do not enjoy lifting weights. But my weekly lifting session was essential for building upper body strength. I tracked my exercises, their order, the amount of weight and the number of repetitions. I frequently switched exercises and order to keep my body guessing.

Pack in Some Training

The Phoenix metro area is silly with steep climbs, though none are quite as steep or loose as Ngauruhoe. Still, loading my backpack exactly as I would in New Zealand and climbing around local peaks helped. It also gave me a chance to dial in the fit of my pack. BONUS - Arizona is still hotter in winter than Tongariro is in late February (its late summer).

Run for It!

I was already training for the IMS half-marathon. That helped with leg strength and cardio. Plus the calorie burn is pretty good.

It's Good to be a Poser

I've been practicing yoga for a good while now. It's helped my core strength and stability a great deal. Those are huge assets when tackling a steep talus slope. It's also good for posture, which helps with a loaded backpack.

Look into Crossfit

I would've been very interested in Crossfit, but it's not very common in my area. Most local Crossfit gyms require quite a drive. And it seems Crossfit is something you have to do every day, which is just not possible with me. I definitely want to learn more about it, because it seems very clever. A Crossfit gym just opened near me, and I'm planning to look more into it.

I started the hike feeling prepared. The end result? My wife and I both finished the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and the Ngauruhoe side trip in the same time it takes most hikers to finish just the crossing.