With the Total Archery Challenge (TAC) just around the corner and our much-anticipated camping and hunting trips following closely behind, our preparations have kicked into high gear. While our last blog post covered the essential items for our trip (don’t forget to check that out!), this time, we’re focusing on the physical preparations and lifestyle adjustments we’ve made to ensure we’re in peak condition for the adventures ahead.

Physical Preparations: Building Strength and Stamina

Preparing for these outdoor excursions is not just about having the right gear; it’s equally important to be physically and mentally ready. Here’s how we’ve been gearing up:

Weight Vest Walks with Nero

One of the key components of our physical preparation has been incorporating weight vest walks into our routine. Wearing a 25 lb weight vest, I take my dog Nero on 2-mile walks several times a week. This exercise not only builds strength and endurance but also helps simulate the added weight we’ll be carrying during our trips.

Mountain Tough Workouts

To further enhance our strength and stamina, we’ve incorporated Mountain Tough workouts into our training regimen. These workouts are designed specifically for mountain athletes and include a mix of strength training, cardio, and functional movements that mimic the physical demands of hiking, hunting, and other outdoor activities. Here’s a snapshot of our routine:

• Strength Training: Focus on compound movements like squats, deadlifts, and bench presses to build overall muscle strength.
• Cardio: Incorporating running, cycling, and HIIT workouts to boost cardiovascular health and endurance.
• Functional Movements: Exercises that replicate real-world activities, such as loaded carries, step-ups, and sled pushes, to improve functional strength and stability.
• Flexibility: Including yoga and stretching sessions to improve flexibility and prevent injuries.

Daily Life Adjustments

In addition to structured workouts, we’ve made several adjustments to our daily lives to further enhance our readiness:

• Increased Activity Levels: Taking the stairs instead of the elevator, opting for walking or biking instead of driving, and engaging in more outdoor activities.
• Balanced Nutrition: Following a balanced diet rich in protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates to fuel our bodies and aid in recovery.
• Mental Conditioning: Practicing mindfulness and stress-relief techniques such as meditation and deep-breathing exercises to enhance mental resilience.

Gear Upgrades: Shopping Smart

As we prepare physically, we’ve also been smart about upgrading our gear. Utilizing places like Sierra Trading Post, Costco, and Govx has been a game-changer. These stores offer high-quality outdoor gear at competitive prices, ensuring we have the best equipment without breaking the bank.

Tips and Tricks for Smart Shopping

• Sierra Trading Post: Great for discounted outdoor gear and apparel.
• Costco: Ideal for bulk purchases of camping essentials and food supplies.

• Govx: Perfect for exclusive deals on tactical and outdoor gear for military and first responders.

Stay Tuned

Our preparations are in full swing, and the excitement for our upcoming trips is building. From physical conditioning to strategic shopping, we’re leaving no stone unturned. Stay tuned for more updates, tips, and tricks as we get closer to our adventure dates. Your outdoor adventures await—let’s gear up and get ready!

Happy adventuring, and see you on the trails!