If you’re preparing to engage in an outdoor expedition in the coming months, then it would be better to be physically fit for the “long haul”.

Understand an expedition

Unlike the controlled environment of a gym or a fitness club, an expedition involves unrelenting strain in an often-hostile environment. Forests, deserts and mountain ranges are all examples of what an expedition can be like.

Carrying heavy loads is also part of the effort during an expedition. A real expedition means getting off you 4x4 at one point and hiking to a specific destination.

Preparing for an expedition

Aerobics is the way to go if you want to prepare fully for an oncoming expedition. Endurance training is your best recourse. The back and the legs will be exposed to sustained physical pressure, which is why you should engage in specific aerobic training for the purpose of the expedition.

Large muscle groups will be tested to their limits. Glucose reserves in the back and in the legs aren’t that large, which is why the body would be getting the extra does of sugar elsewhere. The liver for example, has the capacity to store fat. The fat in the liver can be burned during an expedition, which makes this form of physical activity that much more beneficial.

Mental toughness required

According to Blake Houston, a sports medicine specialist in Wyoming:

“The best way to conquer physical hardship is positive thinking.  Goal-oriented individuals know how important it is to foresee victory and bolster their performance with the right kind of mental attitude.”

Physical fitness for an expedition can be gained with around three to four months of training. By then, the mental toughness will come naturally when you are transported to a hostile environment.

Extremes of temperature, the roughness of the terrain and unevenness of the territory that you will be traversing will all come under your control as your body conquers the difficulties.

The right gear does the job

Golfers wear spiked golf shoes. Runners prefer lightweight running shoes. Football players wear goatskin leather shoes. Outdoorsmen wear boots and tough leather-bound shoes.

If preparedness is the name of the game, then make sure you’re armed to the teeth. You can only perform well in an expedition if you have the right gear. Aside from harnesses, your tent and other supplies you need the right gear.

Never make do with old shoes and old gear. If you want to enjoy your exertions during your excursion, use the right tools.

You are tough enough

According to Steve Rankin, an outdoorsman from Maryland with over ten years of experience:

“Real expeditions can bring out the best in you. Mountains and jungles are just things to conquer. The real battle is with yourself- with conquering limitations that you set yourself years and years ago.”

The quest for physical fitness begins at home, with you. If you’re unable to deal with your confidence in handling yourself during an expedition, then start to remold that facet of yours. Challenge yourself with new things- it is by far the best way to improve your self-image.