The Training For Trekking Podcast
by Rowan Smith: Hiking and Trekking Coach
The Training For Trekking Podcast is created to help hikers, trekkers and mountaineers prepare for their bucket list adventures. Rowan shares with you the simple training strategies to get you fit, strong and resilient to tackle anything the trail will throw at you. He also dives deep into subjects such as how to prevent altitude sickness, nutrition while hiking, injury prevention and much, much more. So you can have the very best chance of a safe, enjoyable and successful adventure!
Episodes
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TFT369: Training To Hike The Scenic Rim Trail - Interview With Sarah
In this episode, I interview Summit Strength client Sarah about her training leading up to the Scenic Rim Trail. Inside, she shares insights into her training, the roadblocks she faced along the way, and how everything came together as she completed the 80km trek, carrying her own pack and...
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TFT368: Training To Hike The Sunshine Coast Trail
In this episode, I interview Summit Strength client Jennifer about her training leading up to her second attempt at the Sunshine Coast Trail, a rugged 80-mile stretch through British Columbia. Inside, she shares what changed in her prep this time around, the roadblocks she worked through along…
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TFT367: Training To Hike The West Maroon Trail
In this episode, I interview Summit Strength client Todd about his training leading up to a hike the West Maroon Trail in Colorado. Todd hadn't exercised in over 30 years before starting, so inside he shares what it took to go from the couch to trail-ready, the setback that cost him a quarter of...
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TFT366: Leanne's Training Journey To Hike Kilimanjaro
In this episode, I interview Leanne from Backtrack Adventures, who is at the very beginning of a training journey to hike Kilimanjaro. This will be a multi-part series as we follow along with her training, and today we introduce Leanne, chat about her inspiration for this upcoming trek and…
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TFT365: Training For To Hike Maine's Appalachian Trail - Cathleen's Story
In this episode, I interview Summit Strength client Cathleen about her training journey to conquer Maine's notoriously challenging section of the Appalachian Trail. Inside, she shares insights into her training, challenges, and experiences on some of the toughest sections of the entire AT. ==…
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TFT364: Training To Hike The West Highland Way
In this episode I interview Summit Strength client Cyril, who at the age of 74 has recently completed the West Highland Way hike in Scotland. Inside, he shares some insights about how he trained for this 107-mile hike, the strategies he applied to improve his breathing, enjoyment and leg cramps…
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TFT363: Training To Thru-Hike Te Araroa: Interview With Sonia
In this episode, I interview Summit Strength client Sonia, who is three-quarters through a training journey to prepare to thru-hike Te Araroa in New Zealand. Inside, she shares some great insights on how she is training for this challenging long-distance trail, and the challenges she has faced...
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TFT362: Training To Hike The Tour du Mont Blanc: Interview With Jill & Dan
In this episode, I interview Summit Strength clients Jill and Dan, who have recently come off a successful adventure of the Tour du Mont Blanc. Inside, they share some insights about their training and preparation for this iconic trail, as well as some very interesting insights about the trip...
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TFT361: Made Up Problems For Hikers
In this episode, I explore a trend in the world of hiking, where coaches are advocating for more and more complicated methods of training - even though the basics and fundamentals of training would probably work just as well. Something any hiker in training needs to look out for! == Want to get...
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TFT360: Training To Hike The Via Francigena : Interview With Chris
In this episode, I interview Summit Strength client Chris about her recent adventure tackling her last section of the Via Francigena pilgrimage walk. Inside she shares some insights about her preparation, training and her experience on this amazing trail. == Want to get fit, strong and resilient...
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TFT359: 10 Days on Kilimanjaro's Northern Circuit: A Couple's Training Story
In this episode, I interview Summit Strength graduates Karen and Charles, who have just come back from 10 days and a successful summit of Kilimanjaro's northern circuit. Inside, they talk about their training, preparation and experience on this amazing mountain. == Want to get fit, strong and...
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TFT358: 62, Two Knee Replacements, and Not One Anti-Inflammatory at Ningaloo
In this episode I interview Summit Strength client Jenny, and inside she shares her experience training for a 12 day hiking, snorkelling and kayaking adventure at Ningaloo Reef. == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program:...
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TFT357: Training To Thru-Hike 1000km On The Bibbulmun Track
In this episode I chat with Mark, a Summit Strength graduate from Melbourne, about his training and experience thru-hiking the Bibbulmun Track - a 1,000 kilometre walk through Western Australia. Inside we chat about the strength and conditioning he used from this long distance hike, managing a…
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TFT456: How to Know If You'll Be Ready for Your Hiking Adventure
In this episode, we cover a simple set of questions you can ask yourself if you are eyeing off a big hiking adventure and are wondering, "Am I actually on track to be ready?" == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your hiking adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program:...
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TFT455: The Most Important High Altitude Strategy
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
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TFT454: Please Carry Enough Water When Hiking
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
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TFT453: Hiker's Knee Fixed In A Week?
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:...
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TFT452: Why I Love Step Downs For Hikers
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…
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TFT451: "I am always tired after my training hikes"
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...
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TFT450: Should A Hiker Put On Extra Fat Before A High Altitude Hike?
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
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TFT449: 'This' Before 'That'
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:...
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TFT448: Wim Hof Breathing For High Altitude Hikers And Mountaineers
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…
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TFT447:Are Hills Or Stairs Better For Hikers In Training?
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
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TFT446: Can Strength Training Make You Worse At Hiking?
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
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TFT445: Rucking For Hikers: Myths vs Facts
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...
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TFT444: Why Not Do Both?
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
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TFT443: Carbon Dioxide For Hikers And Mountaineers
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...
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TFT422: Don't Fall Short With Your Training Hikes
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...
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TFT441: Are Altitude Gyms Lying To High Altitude Hikers?
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…
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TFT440: Training For Kilimanjaro: Interview With Wanda
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,...
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TFT439: The BOLT Score For Hikers And Mountaineers
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?…
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TFT438: Something Slightly Different In 2026
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:...
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TFT437: Training For Everest Base Camp: Interview With Yolanda
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...
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TFT436: Different Pacing Strategies For Uphill Hiking
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:...
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TFT435: Training For The Kokoda Track: Interview With Marika
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...
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TFT434: Are Limitations Hurting Your Hiking?
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
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TFT433: Training For Hiking In 2026
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
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TFT432: Training For Hiking The Grand Canyon: Interview With Jodi
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...
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TFT431: A Simple Goal Setting Process For Hikers
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:...
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TFT430: Thank You To The Summit Strength Community
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.
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TFT429: A Silly Season Training Strategy For Hikers
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
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TFT428: How Hikers Can Prepare for 2026
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:...
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TFT427: Supplements For Hikers: Interview With Hursh From Optiventure
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...
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TFT426: Training For Long Distance Hiking Over Summer
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
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TFT425: Looking For Hikers
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…
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TFT424: Training For The Laugavegur Trail In Iceland: Interview With Amy
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...
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TFT423: Don't Miss This In Your Preparations
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
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TFT422: Weights Vest For Hikers
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
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TFT421: Tracking For The Win
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
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TFT420: Self-Awareness In Your Training
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
About this show
The Training For Trekking Podcast is created to help hikers, trekkers and mountaineers prepare for their bucket list adventures. Rowan shares with you the simple training strategies to get you fit, strong and resilient to tackle anything the trail will throw at you. He also dives deep into subjects such as how to prevent altitude sickness, nutrition while hiking, injury prevention and much, much more. So you can have the very best chance of a safe, enjoyable and successful adventure!
Hosted by
Rowan Smith: Hiking and Trekking Coach
Categories