Let the Training Begin

The thought of training for a thru-hike had been a little daunting.  I knew that nothing would truly prepare me for hiking over 2,000 miles other than the hike itself.  That being said, I wanted to make sure I was physically fit before heading out.  I know I will be extremely sore the first few weeks but some preparation should help.

How to get fit?  I went to the library and got books about preparing for running.  True, it's not the same, but both work the muscles and tendons in the legs.  I figured running was closer to hiking than swimming, so running it was.

I read The Beginning Runner's Handbook- the Proven 13-week walk/run Program by Ian MacNeill and the Sport Medicine Council.  I am currently in week two and am enjoying myself.  I appreciate having a written plan to guide me because I was never into sports.  The first weeks have felt slow, with a lot of walking, but the reality is that hiking is more walking than running anyway.

I have to say I did not research many training programs and then cross examine them (as I have been doing for gear) but saw this one, thought it sounded good, and started the next day.  One point that really struck home for me was reading that the cardiovascular system will strengthen more quickly than the musculoskeletal system.  I learned that bones, ligaments, tendons and muscles take longer to develop.   My goal is to strengthen my body before I leave for the hike in hopes of reducing injury on the trail. 

This plan was working great until it snowed this weekend.  I refuse to go to a gym... I would much rather be outside.  It looks as though I'll be applying the concepts to cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating.  Sounds fun to me!