The Training

We approached this training using an endurance periodization plan (base, build, peak, taper) over ten weeks.  As I write this, we're in taper mode -- and two days out from event!  Approaching training for a major hike like any endurance endeavor, we started with our base (always fit, working out six days a week), to build (adding hard training walks to our weekly regimen at a rate of 18-26 miles a week (two or three walks)), to peak -- for me a vertical mile on the versaclimber at the gym (5,280 feet), for Cliff, a 40-mile plus bike ride, which we jointly followed with two consecutive days of hard 15-mile hikes in boots with packs.  We read this threshold readiness marker in a coast-to-coast blog, set it as the culmination of our training (peak), then backward planned from there.  Peak week, by the way put those two back-back 15-milers on our anniversary weekend.  So we celebrated 33 years of marriage with ten hours of training hikes.

Our average travel time in hilly terrain is 3mph.

Observation: I've had more than one client over the years ask me how to train for a specific demand (running hills, building distance, increasing speed).  The best answer I can give is what shaped this training -- train in your event and complement the training with strength conditioning for balance (lots of core) and development of specific muscles to meet demand (in our case, lots of lower body work).  So, if you want to run hills, run hills -- consistently and with intention -- each time you'll likely get a little further (and eventually you'll crest that hill).  It's the same with long-distance walking or trekking.  Get out and do it.  Walk consistently replicating the event conditions as best as possible.  And in peak phase, achieve a goal that builds self-efficacy as well.  While there's little that compares to the cumulative effect of walking many miles day after day, knowing we've tagged three tough consecutive days gives us the all-important "we've got this" experience.