As the new year approaches we all start to think about setting new goals for ourselves – or we will once we finish our holiday shopping – and getting fitter is usually on everyone’s to-do list. We’ve come up with a way to help you attain that goal, while experiencing a potentially life-changing journey through the Himalayas in Bhutan. We’re offering you the chance to take part in the Snowman Trek, in September 2014.
It’s not a Sunday stroll in the park – it’s the hardest trek in the world. 220 miles. In the Himalayas. At altitudes of up to 16,000 feet. For 25 days. It’s the challenge of a lifetime and requires some preparation. So what can you do to get ready for this amazing trek?
- Aerobic exercise strengthens your heart muscle and increases your lung capacity (you’re gonna need that in such extremely high altitudes!). Running, climbing stairs or high-impact aerobics, three or four times a week will help with this.
- Strength training – all your muscles need to be as strong as you can possibly make them. Strong thighs and calves will make those climbs so much easier, and overall muscle strength will ensure that your body is fully in sync when walking. It’s time to look out the weights and resistance bands. Skip the elevator whenever you can. Using the stairs will increase your leg strength as well as your lung capacity.
- Take long walks, incorporating hills and stairs whenever possible. You’re going to be trekking for extended periods of time every day, and your body needs to get used to long hours of walking.
- Once you’re reasonably fit, start walking and exercising with extra weight so that you get used to carrying a pack. Although your heavier luggage will be transported for you, you will be carrying a daypack.
- Yoga approaches the challenge from a more spiritual point-of-view. Focus and dig deep within; you’ll have plenty of silent hours to fill as you concentrate on putting one foot in front of the other, although the stunning views will also help pass the time.
- Trek in hiking boots that are well-broken-in. Don’t wait until the last minute to purchase your hiking boots. Make sure they fit well and are comfortable on your long walks. Building up a few callouses before this trek is a good idea.
A good cross-fit training program would fit the bill. Beth has been following P90X as the start to her training and will be heading for the mountains in 2014 to do some high altitude hiking.
There’s still time for you to prepare – the tour is still nine months away…plenty of time to get in shape!
Beth would love for you to join her on this amazing journey. For more information on this trek visit our website. Give us a call (206-317-1860) or Contact Us via email and we’ll be happy to answer any questions you might have!
Embrace life,
Pat
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