The mountains are calling, and you want to be prepared for your backpacking trip(s). So here are some ways to get those legs in shape so the journey becomes less painful and more enjoyable.

Note: It is a good idea to check with your doctor before starting any new exercise routine.

1) Dry dog/cat food (or cat litter) bags make excellent weights. 

You might already have these at your house. The great thing is you already know how much they weigh! I generally train with 75% of my total backpacking weight. Just be sure to use a lightweight object (like a beach towel) on the bottom of your backpack to distribute the heavy objects closer to your core.

2) Alternatively, use water as weights.

A gallon of water is roughly eight pounds. So carry your water up, drink some, water some plants at the top, and speed down the hill with less weight.

3) Find a good training hill.

I recommend “Heart Attack Hill” on the Tolt Pipeline for the greater Seattle area. Yes, that is it’s the official name on Strava. This broad gravel trail is located in Woodinville and gains around 300 ft elevation at roughly a 20% grade. All in the space of around a half of a mile. Boy Scouts have used this section of the trail for years to train. Bonus? Going wine tasting afterward since it is a stone’s throw away from the Woodinville Schoolhouse Winery District. It is common to see people running or training up and down this section. You are rewarded with more hills to climb when you get to the top. 

Alternatively, West Tiger 3 in Issaquah is another good option when there isn’t snow.

3) Reward yourself for sticking to the training plan.

It can be easy to opt out of a workout when the weather is bad (like it often is in the Seattle area from November to February). But missed chances add up. So reward yourself with something small for all your efforts. It can help you visualize something as you climb and ask yourself for the hundredth time, “why am I doing this again?”. I visualize a trip to the local espresso drive-through for a large chai tea latte or hot chocolate.

You will be grateful for all the hard work you put in preparing when you are on your adventures!