How to prepare for one of our guided walks

How to prepare for one of our guided walks

Most of our Life’s An Adventure pack-free guided walks are more than just a walk in the park. They require a certain about on effort, exertion and general fitness.

Now you’re not hiking to Everest Base Camp but walks like the Larapinta Trail in Central Australia are often on uneven, rocky terrain, where you’re walking in and out of gullies and gorges, and up and down some reasonable high mountains so a general level of fitness is required.

When we can, we do offer an alternative activity if some guest aren’t keen on some of the more challenging day walks however the best way to fully enjoy your pack-free guided walk with us – be it the Larapinta Trail or the less challenging Kakadu National Park walk – is to train up a bit before your holiday.

Here are our tips to prepare yourself for one of our walks.

Just start walking!
Begin with shorter, less strenuous wals with your day pack. Nothing gets muscles ready for the trail better than the trail itself. Gradually increase the length and elevation of your walks – if there is a national park or state reserve near you all the better!

As you begin to strengthen your lower body and improve your endurance, increase your distance and try different types of terains.

Hit the gym
Try stair-steppers, elliptical trainers and climbing machines for great cardiovascular and strength workouts. They isolate your lower-body muscle groups and help build endurance. Consider step aerobics and lift weights.

Use what’s around you
However if you don’t want to hit the gym use stairs: walking up and down stairs on a regular basis offerd terrific pre-trail training.

Walk instead of drive
If you can perform routine chores by leaving your car keys in your pocket, do it. If you have a bike, start pedalling: cycling is another good way to condition your legs and increase endurance. Jogging is also a popular training option for getting in shape for backpacking.

Aerobic training
No matter which pack-free guided walk you are on, your lungs will get a work out – and that’s a good thing! So you need to ensure that your cardiovascular fitness is at its best.

Always begin slowly, especially if you haven’t done a lot of aerobic exercise in the past, and increase your duration and intensity as you get fitter and stronger. Interval training is excellent when preparing for a trek, as it trains your lungs to function at peak capacity.

Core strength
For info on core strength training click here.

Training time frame
How long does it take to get into hiking shape? That depends on you: the better shape you’re in now, the faster you’ll be ready for one of our tours. Be patient and listen to your body.

Aim to do some form of exercise at least three times a week for a minimum of 30 minutes each time. There’s nothing to lose. (Except maybe a few kilos!)