Guests planning to trek Kili often ask us what they should do to train. No matter what your fitness level, Kilimanjaro offers specific challenges, and we strongly recommend people train specifically to meet them. We always tell them that since they can’t train for the most difficult element they’ll face on Kili, the altitude,…
Stair climbing intervals are a great way to get your legs and lungs in shape for the climb. Mix things up by alternating legs or skipping steps, and be sure to add on your boots and day pack for full effect.
What kind of training do you need to summit Kilimanjaro? You’ll want to develop a good cardiovascular base and focus on Kili-specific strength training like squats, lunges, and calf raises. Try one of Thomson Safaris favorite leg-strengthening and stability moves!
During my hike last weekend, I practiced the rest step, a technique hikers use conserve energy. Watch the video below to learn how this is effective on long hikes requiring muscle endurance, like Kilimanjaro. My trek with Thomson Safaris is approaching quickly!
Instead of doing this on a Stairmaster, I prefer 8-10 minute sets on a single flight of stairs because it not only forces me to focus and puts me into the zone but it also gives me the opportunity to train for the descent… don’t forget, you have to walk down several thousand feet from the summit! Follow Rachel’s journey as she trains for her Kilimanjaro climb with Thomson Safaris via the Western Approach Route in August.
This August, the newest member of the Thomson Safaris’ Kilimanjaro team, Rachel, is going to make her first attempt to summit Kilimanjaro. Follow her progress as she blogs about training for her trek and prepares for her trip to Tanzania.
Fit For Trips provides Kilimanjaro training instruction by video, audio and personal support, exclusively to Thomson Safaris trekkers for the Grand Traverse, Umbwe and Western Approach Routes.
How do I train for my Kilimanjaro trek? To answer this question and get you ready for your Kilimanjaro summit, we’ve partnered with the experts at Fit For Trips and have created route-specific, personal training regimens, custom-designed for you and your fitness level.