DIFFICULT TREK

It is vital that one is mentally prepared to face a tough trail and train for it every day. “As the weather keeps changing on higher altitudes, one must train to get used to acclimatisation while training on lower to mid terrains,” says Shravan Gupta, executive director, Leisure Businesses, FCM Travel Solutions, Indian subsidiary of FCTG, Australia. Gupta and Prakash share a few important points.

PREPARATION

Right trekking gears: You might encounter unfore- seen weather and trails; so, it is necessary to invest in professional trekking gears

Practise with ankle weight: Climb stairs with ankle weight tied to your feet. Do this for an hour every day for at least two months before starting your trek

Prior experience of easy and medium treks: Every lesson of your easy and medium trek will count while you are on your difficult terrain trek. There are basic survival instincts that will develop in you once you have enough experience from night treks, one-day treks, waterfall treks, etc.

Cardio exercise: You must do different cardio exercises on alternate days. You can swim and cycle for an hour every alternate day for two months. Your muscles will develop further and make you stronger. Difficult treks usually are at higher altitudes where breathing is quite tough. Cardio is good for your heart, lungs and circulatory system

Eat well: Nuts, oats, dried fruits and chocolates are a good source of energy and protein. Eating while getting trained helps your body get used to digestion during exhausting activities while on treks.