Looking for your next great hiking destination? If you’re seeking an active and immersive outdoor adventure, joining one of MT Sobek’s expertly guided trips is the perfect way to experience the beauty of nature. Our trips cater to all levels of adventurers, so whether you’re a seasoned hiker or new to multi-day treks, we’ve got you covered.
Exploring the world through hiking should be a fun and fulfilling experience. Whether you’re gearing up for a leisurely nature walk, a historic pilgrimage, or an epic mountain trek, this guide will help you prepare you for your adventure!
Why Training for a Trip is Important
Training enables hikers to go the distance and get the most enjoyment out of the trips. Due to the daily elevation gains and altitude that we encounter on our hiking trips, it is imperative to have strong legs, muscular endurance, mental fortitude, balance, and experience with multi-day hiking.
See below for top training tips for our Levels!
MT Sobek Activity Levels – Find Your Fit
We offer five adventure levels to suit every traveler. Here’s a quick overview:
LEVEL 1: Easiest
Our least challenging style of travel. Activities are considered easy, but may still require good balance and stamina.
LEVEL 2: Easy to Moderate
These trips are for active travelers who like to walk, hike and paddle at a less ambition pace.
LEVEL 3: Moderate
These trips typically include 3 to 6 hours of hiking, rafting or other physical activities per day. Pre-trip training is advised.
LEVEL 4: Moderate to Challenging
These trips are for experienced adventurers seeking full days of activity and a higher level of physical challenge. Pre-trip training is highly recommended.
LEVEL 5: Ultimate Challenge
Our most physically demanding trips! Previous experience with the primary activity is required, and pre-trip training is necessary.
Preparing for Your Multi-Day Trek
Check out our hiking tips below!
Hit the trail regularly
Get out on a hike at least 1 day per week. Hikes should gradually increase in duration every 3-4 weeks with hikes ranging from 3 to 6 hours.
Break in your gear
When training, wear the boots and daypack you plan to wear on your trip, and use your (optional) hiking poles!
Build a moderate training program
Start your training 3 to 6 months before your trip to gradually build up endurance and strength.
Hike with a weighted pack
On MT Sobek’s multi-day treks, you’ll carry a day pack to hold the items you’d like to have on you during the day (extra layers and rain gear, water, your camera, a picnic lunch, etc.).
Simulate this by gradually increasing the weight in your daypack during training. Start with 5 pounds and work up to 15 pounds. Bags of rice or sand make great, adjustable weights.
Hike with friends and family
Encouraging friends and family to join your hikes is a great way to make training more social and more fun!
There are many other techniques and training methods to prepare for the trip. Remember to consult a physician if undertaking any new exercise, and raise any questions or concerns with your Regional Specialist/Adventure Coordinator before your trip.
Create your personal workout routine
Your training hikes should incorporate ascents and descents of 600 – 2,000 feet. In the absence of hills, work out on a stair machine at the gym, or stairs in the building. Try alternative activities to supplement your training such as cycling, swimming, running, weight training, and other sports.
Set off to new heights with MT Sobek!
Set your sights on a new adventure! At MT Sobek, we live and breathe hiking. From world-renowned trails to hidden gems, we offer adventures for all skill levels. So, whether you’re ready for a casual stroll or the ultimate trekking challenge, there’s a journey waiting for you. So, lace up your boots! The trails are calling and its time to answer.
Start your journey by checking out our popular trips before they fill up, or give our Trip Consultants a call at 800-974-0300 to start planning your dream multi-day trek.