The Training For Trekking Podcast

In this episode, I explore the single most important factor that will determine your chance of success and comfort when hiking at high altitude.  == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

In this episode, I explore why I think it is a silly idea to try to minimise or 'toe the line' with the amount of water you carry on the trail.  == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

In this episode, I explore the odd phenomenon that sometimes occurs: a hiker starts a training program and sees 'dramatic' changes in pain within the week. == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

I personally believe that step downs are one of the best strength exercises for hikers. And I use them, in one shape or form, for almost all my clients.  And in today's episode, I explore a few deeper reasons why I am such a fan (beyond them just being 'useful' or 'specific' for hikers). If you are not familiar with a step down, or are interested in exploring some different progressions of this movement pattern, check out this article: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/blog/the-best-exercises-for-trekkers-the-step-down == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html  

In this episode, we explore a simple checklist you can use if you always seem to be getting tired (and struggling to recover) after your training hikes.  == Mentioned in the episode: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/blog/how-to-plan-your-training-hikes == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html  

In this episode, I explore the idea that a hiker should concentrate on increasing their body fat in the lead-up to a big high-altitude adventure.  == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

​In this episode, we explore a trend that seems to be coming back into fashion in the fitness industry (and a trap that you don't want to fall into!). == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

Inside, we explore Wim Hof breathing and how it relates to high altitude hiking and mountaineering. And we discuss if it is an effective method to use in your training or while on the mountain. == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

​In this episode, we explore a few considerations if you are trying to decide whether to do hill or stair training in your workout program. == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

In this episode, we explore the idea that 'incorrect' or 'inefficient' strength training can have a detrimental impact on your hiking.  == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

In this episode, we explore the idea of rucking for hikers (e.g loaded-pack walking). And we give a bit of a nuanced take on this subject (to try and balance out a lot of the exaggeration that is seen online with this subject). Inside, we answer the questions: Is rucking an effective way to build muscle strength? Is rucking useful for improving or maintaining bone density? Can rucking help with weight loss? Is rucking beneficial for the immune system? Can rucking help with longevity? == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html  

​In this episode, I bring some common sense to one of the more silly debates in the world of training for hiking.  == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

In this episode, we explore the idea of carbon dioxide tolerance training for hikers and mountaineers. You will learn: What carbon dioxide tolerance training is (and the theories on why it can be beneficial for exercise performance) The potential benefits of carbon dioxide tolerance training for hikers and mountaineers Can carbon dioxide tolerance training help with high-altitude acclimatisation, reduce the risk of altitude sickness or improve high altitude exercise performance? How to test and track carbon dioxide tolerance A few training approaches that can help improve carbon dioxide tolerance (and my opinion on their application for hikers and mountaineers)  == Mentioned in the episode: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/blog/breath-hold-training-for-high-altitude-mountaineers-and-hikers == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

​In this episode, I explore the number one mistake a hiker can make when preparing for a big hiking adventure (and what to do instead). == Mentioned in this episode: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/blog/how-to-plan-your-training-hikes == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

In this episode, we talk about simulated altitude gyms. And we explore a few of the claims people often make about this training, which can be VERY misleading to aspiring high altitude hikers, as well as a few of the actual benefits of this type of training.  == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

In this episode, I interview Summit Strength client Wanda, who recently came off a successful summit of Kilimanjaro. Inside, she shares some insights about her inspiration for this trip, her training for this high altitude adventure and some of her experiences on the mountain.  == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

In this episode, we dive into the BOLT Score, a widely recommended test in the world of breathing training. We discuss what the BOLT Score measures, its relevance for hikers and mountaineers and if and how it should be used.  == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

In this episode, we explore some slightly different episodes I will be bringing to the podcast this year (and why I have finally decided to speak about certain topics).  == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

In this episode, I interview Summit Strength hiker Yolanda, who recently completed the Everest Base Camp Trek. Inside, she shares how she trained for this high altitude hike, and shares some of her experiences on this amazing adventure. == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

In this episode, I explore three different pacing strategies a hiker can take for steep uphill hiking (and what my recommended approach is in most situations). == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

​In this episode, I interview Summit Strength hiker Marika, who recently successfully completed the Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea. Inside, she shares how she trained and prepared for this strenuous trail, and gives some insight into her experience on the trail.  == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

In this episode, we explore why sometimes advice about limiting certain movements and activities can be detrimental to your hiking and life.  == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

If you want to get fit, strong, and resilient for your hiking in 2026, this is for you!  == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

In this episode, I interview Summit Strengh hiker Jodi, who recently completed an amazing Grand Canyon hiking adventure. Inside, she shares how she trained and prepared for this adventure after she was told that she might need to give up hiking.  == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

In this episode, I explore a simple goal-setting process a hiker can use as they look towards 2026 (this is a MUCH simpler approach than I usually talk about). == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

Today I just want to take a moment to say a genuine thank you to everyone who has been involved in the Summit Strength community over 2025. 

In this episode, I explore a dead-simple training strategy to help a hiker keep moving and manage stress during the silly season. == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

In this episode, I talk through some strategies you can use in December to set yourself up for a big, successful and exciting year of training and adventure in 2026.  == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

In this episode, I interview Hursh from Optiventure, a new business that specialises in supplements for hikers. Inside, he shares some insights about their business journey and what they are trying to accomplish in the outdoor space. Inside, we cover: What was the inspiration behind Optiventure (and a look at the beginnings and early journey of their business) What Optiventure are trying to do in the supplements space (and why they believe their product is unique in the outdoor market) Some of the challenges they have faced in their business journey so far Who their product is for (and what particular benefits their supplements are intended to provide) Where supplementation fits into the bigger picture (Hint: it is never supposed to be a replacement for good eating or training habits!)  Want to learn more about Optiventure? You can find them here: Website: https://optiventure.co/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/optiventure.co

In this episode, I discuss a few strategies a hiker can use if they are trying to fit in longer-distance training hikes over the summer months.  == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

This week, we are doing a big enrollment drive for our signature program, The Online Summit Program. Specifically, we are looking for hikers who want to get fit, strong and resilient so they can conquer every adventure. If you want to learn more, and see if any how this program may be right for you and your hiking, you can book a free discovery call with our team here: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/application.html

In this episode, I interview Summit Strength graduate Amy, who recently came off a successful hike on the Laugavegur Trail in Iceland. ​Inside, she shares some insights about how training and preparations, and also talks about her experiences on this amazing trail.  == Want to learn more about the hiking tour Amy did? You can check out 'Viking Women Tours' here: https://www.vikingwomen.is/ Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

Today, we explore one crucial aspect to ensure you fit your training, even if you're already following a very active exercise routine. == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html 

In this episode we compare weight vests vs backpacks and talk through if they are useful for a hikers training.  == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

Following up from last episode, today we share a situation where tracking workouts and increased awareness led to a significant win. == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

Today, we explore self-awareness and why it is SO important to your long-term training success. == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

Today, I share a simple workout structure a hiker can use if they want to work on their cardio at home (or anywhere indoors) but don't have access to any equipment. == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html 

In this episode, I explore a situation where 'cleaning up' your diet before a big hike might actually cause more issues than it solves...  == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

In this episode, I explore an area of the hiking industry that I hate: BMI cut-offs for hiking expeditions. Inside, I discuss why I dislike these and explore alternatives for hikers who might encounter cut-offs that hinder their dream adventures. == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

Circuit-based HIIT is VERY popular in the fitness industry. And it can be great for general fitness and weight loss. But if you are a hiker who is actively trying to improve your fitness and strength for the trail, this might not be the best approach...  In this episode, we discuss why solely focusing on circuit-based HIIT might not be the best idea, and share some simple ideas on how you can adjust your training to work around this.  == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

The longer a hike goes, the more of a mental battle it can become. In this episode, we explore a range of tips a hiker can use before they head off, which can make a major difference to their mindset and enjoyment on a longer-term hike.  = Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

In this episode, I interview Summit Strength Graduate Mary, who has recently come off a successful adventure on the Larpainta trail. Inside, we explore her training and preparation, and chat about her experience on one of Australia's most iconic trails. == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

If you have a multi-day hike coming up, and it is worrying you a bit, this episode shares a simple approach to help manage your nerves and get your mindset prepared for your adventure. == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

I am currently in what many people would say 'great shape'. But on the weekend, I spent hours and hours walking, and my body got sore. What gives? In this episode, we explore this situation and why not all types of 'fitness' are enough to feel comfortable when hiking. == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html  

In this episode, I explore a common mistake I often see hikers make with their training, which might make 'logical' sense, but very much increases the risk of picking up an ache, pain or injury.  == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

In this episode, I explore a few simple tips you can put into place to help you survive a hike that is out of your comfort zone (and which you unexpectedly get the opportunity to tackle). == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

In this episode, I explore ankle weights for hikers. And answer the question, "Are there benefits to using ankle weights when training for hiking?" == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

In this episode, we explore some simple strategies a hiker can use during a multi-day hike to help them recover in between days and wake up feeling fresh and ready to go!  == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html

Is Zone 2 training less effective for female hikers? Inside this episode we explore the subject and if it is something hikers need to be concerned with. == Review referenced in the episode: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39390310/ == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online.html  

In this episode, we explore a brand-new, free course to help your breathing when hiking up hills. == Sign up for our free breathing mini-course here: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/breathing-mini-course