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PODCAST · sports

Train Smarter Hunt Longer

by Todd Bumgardner

Hunters fail in the mountains because they train for optics instead of outcomes. The Train Smarter Hunt Longer Podcast puts the kibosh to that. Here, we rebuild the way hunters think about fitness: less ego, more consistency, and training that matches the real demands of the backcountry. Hosted by Todd Bumgardner, this show blends science and experience to give you the honest training info you need to physically prepare for this season and every season for the rest of your life.

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Episodes

  1. 118: 5 Pieces of Advice for a Hunting Road Trip

    Hunting road trips are great adventures. They're even better when you show up to hunt not feeling like absolute hell. So, in this episode I'm sharing 5 pieces of advice based on all the mistakes I've made over the years on hunting road trips. I've made a lot of road trips. And I've made some...

  2. 117: How Hunters Should Train in October

    Not sure what to do with your training in October? This episode gives you the low down on what to do and why. Free Hunting Fitness Assessment: The Hunter's Field Test

  3. 116: Advice for Managing a Pack Out

    Pack outs worry a lot of hunters. This episode will ease some of your worries. It offers simple advice that allows you to set a good plan, take care of yourself, and get through a pack out as unscathed as possible. Free Hunting Fitness Assessment: The Hunter's Field Test

  4. 115: How to Train Between Hunts

    Free Hunting Fitness Assessment: The Hunter's Field Test Know How Much Weight You Can Carry: Pack Capacity Calculator Hunt Hard as You Age: How to Keep Hunting Hard After 50

  5. 114: Why Running is The Best Aerobic Exercise for Hunters

    Article: Why Hunters Should (Mostly) Run, not Ruck, for Aerobic Conditioning Free Hunting Fitness Assessment: The Hunter's Field Test

  6. 113: How Hunters Should Train in September

    Free Hunting Fitness Assessment: The Hunter's Field Test Know How Much You Can Carry Uphill Pack Capacity Calculator Free Fitness Guide for Hunters Over 50: How to Keep Hunting Hard After 50

  7. 112: How to Recover During a Backcountry Hunt

    Article: How to Recover During a Backcountry Hunt Free Fitness Assessment: The Hunter's Field Test Pack Capacity Calculator Over 50 Training Guide: How to Keep Hunting Hard After 50

  8. 111: What NOT to do Before Opening Day

    The Hunter's Field Test: https://humanpredatorpackmule.com/free-field-test The Pack Capacity Calculator: https://humanpredatorpackmule.com/packcapacity-calculator How to Keep Hunting Hard After 50: https://humanpredatorpackmule.com/hunt-hard-after-50

  9. 110: Elk Season Two Weeks Out Checklist

    Cover your bases, from training to gear, and get your head clear so you're fully prepared before you ship off to elk hunt. Email me at [email protected] for a PDF copy.

  10. 109: How Should Hunters Train in August?

    Article: How to Taper Your Training Before a Big Hunt Know How Much Weight You Should Carry: Pack Capacity Calculator Free Hunting Fitness Assessment: Hunter's Field Test Training for Older Hunters: How to Keep Hunting Hard After 50

  11. 108: The 30,000 Foot View of In-Season Hunting Fitness

    Free Hunting Fitness Assessment:The Hunter's Field TestFree Training Guide for Hunters Over 50:How to Keep Hunting Hard After 50Know How Much Weight You Should Carry: Pack Capacity Calculator

  12. 107: Business, Dog Training, and Hunting with Jennifer Broome

    Jennifer Broome is a life-long hunter and has been training dogs for 30 years. She runs QK Kennels in Connecticut as well as clinics all over the U.S. while also competing as a professional at hunting tests and dog shows at the highest level. Links: QK Kennels Jennifer's Dog Training Books...

  13. 106: Hunter's Rucking Questions That Need Answered

    Lately, I've been getting a lot of questions about rucking weight and length of rucking workouts. So, I recorded this episode to answer them. Free Training Guide for Hunters Over 50: How to Keep Hunting Hard After 50 Free Hunting Fitness Assessment: The Hunter's Field Test

  14. 105: How Hunters Should Train in July

    Article: How Hunters Should Train in July Free Training Guide for Hunters Over 50: How to Keep Hunting Hard After 50

  15. 104: Dog Training and Hunting with Mike Lardy

    Mike Lardy spent 40 years training retrievers. He's also a lifelong hunter who spends his retirement hunting upland and waterfowl all over the U.S. He shares some wisdom on dog selection, training, and tells his story of getting into dog training. Free Training Guide for Hunter's Over 50: How to...

  16. 103: Can You Hit These Hunting Fitness Benchmarks?

    Two things give us confidence in the field: 1. Knowing we've done the work. 2. Hitting benchmarks that tell us each aspect of our hunting fitness is good to go. During this episode, you'll learn important aerobic, muscular endurance, and pack weight metrics to measure against your current hunting...

  17. 102: How Many Days Per Week Should Hunters Train with Their Packs?

    Read the article: How Many Days per Week Should Hunters Train with Their Packs?

  18. 101: What Happens When You Miss a Workout...or a Bunch of Them?

    A lot of hunters worry that missing a workout will make them lose all of their progress. That's not the case. But there is a point when missing workouts becomes a big problem. This episode covers both of those situations and everything in between. Questions answered: 1. What happens if you miss a...

  19. 100: How Should Hunters Train in June?

    The hunting preseason has started, and it's a confusing time for a lot of hunters. It's often panic time because hunters feel like they're playing catch up, and it causes them to make some poor training decisions. We'll help you avoid those with this episode of the podcast, starting with an…

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  20. 99: Sheep Grand Slam, Leopard Hunting, and Other Hunting Stories

    JM Prewitt is a family man, the founder and CEO of Cohesion Co, and a hunter. He's also a good friend and Packmule Apex client. We sat down in his trophy room to tell hunting stories and talk a little bit about hunting's gray areas and what we think about them.

  21. 98: How to Avoid Hip, Knee, and Back Overuse Injuries

    Hunters often walk themselves into hip, knee, and back pain. This episode covers simple ways to keep that from happening.

  22. 97: Choosing the Right Ruck Weight and Combining Ruck Training with Strength Training

    I've been checking out the forums, and a lot of hunters ask about how much weight to ruck with and how to combine ruck training with strength training and other conditioning. So, I answer those questions in this episode. I also lay out how to progress your ruck training and offer some standards…

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  23. 96: How Should Hunters Train in May?

    *Note: We tried new editing software for this podcast and the video ended up wonky. I apologize for that. I wanted to get the info out to you, so I published it anyway. Late Offseason training continues! This episode breaks down the most important aspects of strength, muscular endurance, and...

  24. 95: Fueling, Mindset, Vision, and Books

    This QnA podcast covers: -Ancestral vs Modern Fueling -What mindset to have when you miss a workout -The Packmule Vision for the next 3 to 5 years -Some of my top book recommendations Free Hunting Fitness Assessment: The Hunter's Field Test

  25. 94: Fix Tight Hips After Rucking, How I've Changed My Mind About Nutrition

    I'm on the road and doing a QnA podcast series from the truck. During this episode, I answer two questions: 1. Do you need a dedicated stretch day to fix tight hips caused by rucking? 2. What's the biggest thing about nutrition I've changed my mind on in the past 5 years? Links mentioned during…

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  26. 93: How Should Hunters Train in April?

    It's late offseason time, folks. This episode outlines the most important aspects of training hunters need to do in April to set themselves up for success in the summer. Free Hunting Fitness Assessment: The Hunter's Field Test You're Fine. You're Just Uncomfortable Caribou Shirt

  27. 92: Debunking Muscular Endurance Myths: Don't Confuse Fatigue with Progress

    Muscular endurance is the most misunderstood aspect of training for hunting. In this episode, you'll get the science of muscular endurance, as well as practical training methods, tactics, and exercises to improve your muscular endurance for mountain hunting. We'll also cover the most neglected…

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  28. 91: Why Hunting in New Zealand is So Affordable for Americans

    I chat with Tristan Corbett, a life-long New Zealand hunter, and creator of HuntMateNZ, an app loaded with education, guidance, and hunting maps that point hunters in the right direction to find the game they're after. Tristan tells his story of growing up as a hunter in New Zealand and how that...

  29. 90: Sled Training, Mobility, and Deadlifting for Hunting

    In this QnA episode, I answer 3 listener questions: 1. How should you program sled training for hunting? 2. What mobility training should you do outside of the gym? 3. What's the most functional deadlift for hunting, hex bar or barbell? Mobility routine mentioned in the episode at the link below:...

  30. 89: How Should Hunters Train in March?

    The title nails it for this one. I discuss how hunters should train in March. And to do that, I lay out Phase 3 of our Early Offseason Training block. I cover: -What kind of strength training and how much? -Adding in higher intensity conditioning -Continuing to build an aerobic base -Including...

  31. 88: Training Through and Around Injuries

    This episode covers why it's important to still do everything you can training-wise while dealing with an injury, from a fitness perspective, healing perspective, and psychological perspective. Some of the advice might surprise you. Download a Free copy of our Packmule Capacity Calculator at the...

  32. 87: Popular Hunting Fitness Misconceptions and Leaning Out for Hunting

    This episode gives you answers to great listener questions. Here they are as they sent them in: 1. I'd love to hear a podcast on training misconceptions, especially with this non-stop high output training being pushed by the big names in the hunting fitness space. 2. Assuming someone is fairly…

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  33. 86: When Should Mountain Hunters Train on Steep Inclines?

    This is a QnA episode that covers two great conditioning questions for backcountry and mountain hunters.1. Should Zone 1 and 2 training be done at a steeper incline and slower speed?2. What should hunters do to build and maintain an aerobic base from year to year? How can they keep progressing…

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  34. 85: How Should Hunters Train in February?

    During this episode, Todd gives you a detailed description of what types and amounts of training move the needle for hunters during early offseason training. It includes: -Types of strength training and amounts -Aerobic conditioning (how much and when) -How to know if you're ready to add more...

  35. 84: Should You Use Lifting Belts and Straps?

    In this episode, Todd breaks down the proper use of lifting belts and straps, explaining when they are beneficial and how to use them correctly. He also shares practical advice on building grip strength, programming with reps and reserve, and developing core stability for hunters and outdoor...

  36. The Ultimate Guide to Zone 2 for Hunters

    Unlock the key to sustainable endurance and faster recovery with zone two training—an essential for all hunters looking to optimize their performance and longevity. In this episode, Todd Bumgardner breaks down what zone two truly is, how to find your zones, and how to incorporate this philosophy...

  37. 82: 6 Important Training Questions for Hunters

    In this episode, Todd Bumgardner addresses various questions related to training for hunting, focusing on the importance of upper body strength, preparing for specific conditions like muddy terrain, and the use of trekking poles. He discusses the significance of incline training, load adjustments...

  38. The Best Strength Exercises for Mountain Hunters

    In this episode, Todd Bumgardner discusses strength training specifically tailored for hunters, focusing on the best exercises, the importance of lifting heavy, and the role of muscle mass in performance and longevity. He emphasizes the need for relative strength, effective training methods, and...

  39. 80: Know You're Ready for the Mountains: The Hunter's Field Test

    In this episode, Todd Bumgardner discusses the Hunter Field Test, a physical assessment designed for hunters to evaluate their readiness for the hunting season. He explains the importance of work capacity, movement capacity, and relative strength, and how these elements contribute to a hunter's...

  40. 79: Two Important Notes on High-Intensity Training for Hunters

    In this episode of the Human Predator Pack Mule podcast, Todd Bumgardner discusses high intensity continuous training and its application for hunters. He emphasizes the importance of aerobic conditioning over high intensity training for effective hunting preparation. Todd answers listener…

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  41. 78: Stop Worrying So Much About Workout Nutrition and Why You Should Stay in Zone 2 Why You Scout

    In this QnA episode, Todd answers two great questions on how to approach workout nutrition and whether or not you should push to hunting "game speed" while scouting. He also gives an update on the new HPPM training guide, The Hunter's Guide to Uphill and Downhill Training. Click the link below to...

  42. 77: The How and Why of Long Duration Aerobic Training for Hunters

    In this engaging conversation, Todd and Jordan reconnect and share their experiences in bird hunting, discussing the importance of training and bonding with bird dogs. They delve into the significance of long-duration exercise for cardiovascular health and the adaptations that occur with…

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  43. 76.1: High Heart Rate Inefficiency Explained

    In this episode, Todd Bumgardner re-answers a question because he just didn't think he did a good enough job the first time around. He covers why some folks manage exercising at a high heart rate even when it seems like they shouldn't be able to. He also explains some basics about human energy...

  44. 76: Why Burpees Suck, High Heart Rate Inefficiency, Layering for Late October Hunts

    In this episode of the Human Predator Pack Mule podcast, Todd Bumgardner addresses three main questions regarding fitness and preparation for hunting. He discusses the effectiveness of burpees in training, the relationship between aerobic capacity and heart rate maintenance, and shares his…

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  45. 75: Caloric Deficit Strength Training, Sleep Deprivation, Returning to Training After Illness

    In this episode, Todd Bumgardner addresses key questions related to strength training while in a caloric deficit, the effects of sleep deprivation on performance, and how to safely return to training after an illness. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining muscle mass through strength...

  46. The Greatest Hunt in the World, Nepal, and Hunting Africa with Trey Sperring

    In this conversation, Todd Bumgardner and Trey Sperring discuss the intricacies of mountain hunting, focusing on the operations of Neal and Brownlee, a booking agency specializing in big game hunts. They delve into the client experience, the importance of building relationships with outfitters…

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  47. 73: Strength Endurance, Speed Training vs Running Volume, and Am I Getting a Bird Dog?

    In this episode of the Human Predator Packmule podcast, Todd Bumgardner addresses listener questions on strength endurance training, running high mileage while maintaining speed, and his recent experiences with chuckar hunting. He discusses various training methods, including eustress training…

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  48. 72: "Sheep Hunting Saved My Life"

    Todd and John Mark Prewitt explore the transformative power of sheep hunting, discussing how it has impacted John's life both physically and mentally. John shares his journey of weight loss and preparation for various hunts, emphasizing the challenges faced during these experiences. The…

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  49. 71: You Shouldn’t Have to Rebuild After Hunting Season

    In this episode: 1. Power training for hunters...and why focusing on power training for hunting might be the wrong way to think about it 2. Transitioning from in-season hunting fitness to off-season hunting fitness, and why you shouldn't have to "rebuild" Click the link below to download our FREE...

  50. 70: When to Change Up Your Training Routine

    In this episode: 1. Typical training time frames 2. How consistency effects when you should change your training 3. How to change your training when you change goals 4. How different training methods have different training time frames 5. How life factors effect when you change your training…

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Hunters fail in the mountains because they train for optics instead of outcomes. The Train Smarter Hunt Longer Podcast puts the kibosh to that. Here, we rebuild the way hunters think about fitness: less ego, more consistency, and training that matches the real demands of the backcountry. Hosted by Todd Bumgardner, this show blends science and experience to give you the honest training info you need to physically prepare for this season and every season for the rest of your life.

HOSTED BY

Todd Bumgardner

CATEGORIES

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Train Smarter Hunt Longer have?

Train Smarter Hunt Longer currently has 95 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Train Smarter Hunt Longer about?

Hunters fail in the mountains because they train for optics instead of outcomes. The Train Smarter Hunt Longer Podcast puts the kibosh to that. Here, we rebuild the way hunters think about fitness: less ego, more consistency, and training that matches the real demands of the backcountry. Hosted by...

How often does Train Smarter Hunt Longer release new episodes?

Train Smarter Hunt Longer has 95 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to Train Smarter Hunt Longer?

You can listen to Train Smarter Hunt Longer on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts Train Smarter Hunt Longer?

Train Smarter Hunt Longer is created and hosted by Todd Bumgardner.
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