Three years ago, I embarked on my first Total Archery Challenge (TAC) with excitement and anticipation. However, I quickly realized how easy it was to get hurt in the mountains. On the very first day, as I walked down the mountain to the lift to start the course, I injured my knee. My adventure ended before it even began, and I knew I had to do better in my preparation.

Determined to avoid a repeat of that experience, I focused on strengthening my knee over the next year. My second year at TAC was also my first time going camping with Jacob on his hunting trip. I saw TAC as a great indicator of how I would fare during our two-week expedition. While I managed to complete two out of the three days at TAC, I struggled with stamina and exhaustion. I knew I could manage our camping and hunting trip, but I wasn’t physically or mentally where I wanted to be.

Our camping and hunting trip that year was a mix of excitement and learning. We had a rocky start with a trip to the ER within the first couple of hours after setting up camp. Jacob had a mishap while chopping wood, and we quickly learned the importance of wearing goggles for such tasks. Despite this setback, we completed our 10-day camping trip, learning and growing from each experience.

As I approached my third year at TAC, I knew I wanted to complete all three days. Jacob and I turned to crucial workouts from Mountain Tough Fitness. These workouts, including step-ups, farmer carries, lateral lunges, high knees, and butt kicks, helped build the strength and endurance we needed. I also incorporated a weighted vest into my daily routine, wearing it on walks with our dog Nero and even while cleaning the house. This practical approach helped me build the stamina required for long days in the mountains.

The Mountain Tough workouts were a game-changer. Exercises like step-ups and farmer carries, in particular, are incredibly beneficial for TAC. These workouts helped me develop balanced strength and avoid overworking the same muscles day after day. The incorporation of the weighted vest helped build my stamina, ensuring I was prepared for the physical demands of TAC and our camping trips.

This preparation paid off. I completed all three days at TAC, feeling stronger and more confident than ever. The experience was not just about physical preparation but also about mental resilience. I learned to push through fatigue and stay focused on my goals. The combination of Mountain Tough workouts and practical training methods like using a weighted vest helped me achieve the strength and stamina needed for these adventures.

My journey from that first, injury-shortened TAC to now has been one of growth and learning. I’ve realized the importance of preparation, not just for the body but also for the mind. Each challenge has taught me something new, and I’ve embraced these lessons, using them to become better prepared for whatever adventures lie ahead.

For anyone looking to take on challenges like TAC, camping, or hunting trips, my advice is to focus on comprehensive preparation. Strengthen your body, build your stamina, and prepare your mind for the journey. Use resources like Mountain Tough workouts and incorporate tools like a weighted vest into your daily routine. Learn from each experience and keep pushing forward. The mountains have much to teach us, and with the right preparation, we can embrace every lesson and every adventure.