Hunting Washington Forum
Big Game Hunting => Elk Hunting => Topic started by: Cab on June 19, 2017, 05:32:21 PM
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This is my first elk season and I want to take the physical training serious. I would hate to start the season and realize I didn't prep enough. First I want to outline my goals and what I've been doing/plan to do and I just wanted to get some feedback by some seasoned hunters if it's enough.
Start of Jan I was 6ft 245ish and pretty much only would go for hikes once a week for about 4-5 miles. Now I am currently down to 215(would like to get down to 190-200) still hike once a week but now around 7-8 miles. I have started using a treadmill 5 days a week to do 30mins 10%-15% incline at 3mph with about 60 push ups. I plan to increase push ups to 100+ a day(would like to reach this by mid July), to start wearing a pack with 20lbs(starting in July and move up in lbs as I get closer to season) to start doing squats with pack/weight(start of July). Does this sound like a solid plan to get ready for elk season? I am currently working out at home and don't really have the funds to join a gym/buy a ton of work out gear. Is there any other suggestions? I know nutrition is very important and I have started to really crank down on what I eat/drink. I've started cutting out all sugar, carbs and beer and started to ramp up protein and veggies.
End result I would like to be around 190lb, able to chase elk for about 7-9 days and able to pack out deboned elk a mile or two(trying to limit myself in distance). Am I doing enough to get ready and are my goals realistic?
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For the most part I would say yes. One thing to add would be adding your pack with some weight on your hikes and also try to hike in uneven terrain as much as possible. I am in pretty good shape but every year the first thing that gets tired are ankles, heel cords etc. Those areas can only be trained by actually doing the real thing. :twocents:
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Carry your bow on your weekly hike as well. I know my arm muscles are pretty spent after a two week elk hunt.
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Carry your bow on your weekly hike as well. I know my arm muscles are pretty spent after a two week elk hunt.
good idea! I'm going with my recurve so it certainly helps with weight but yea two things get heavier in the woods, what you've shot and what you shot it with
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Sounds to me like you're on a great path Cab! Would only add what vandeman17 mentioned, throw that ruck on and hike. What are you preparing for? To hump up, down, and sideways in the elk woods with probably a 17 lb daypack (or all in one pack) on your back, if you're in an area that you can hike in (you may get some funny looks if you're hiking downtown Olympia :chuckle:). Treadmills are fine and dandy (put your pack on doing that also, grin), but, I personally have found that with 2 or 3 years of elk hunting under my belt, nothing gets me in better shape for elk hunting than hiking with a ruck on my back. 30 pounds is fine to start but by the middle of July and up till season start, slowly increase the weight in your pack up to close to 50 "and" find a way to hike up and down hills, even if that means just using the local stadium stairs. You'll be surprised at how well hiking with a ruck on, 4-5 times per week will get you in tune with what the mountains have in store for you. RJ
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Sounds like you've got a good plan going forward.
Only thing I would add is try to get some time in at the elevation you plan to hunt with a weighted pack and get a feel for how thin the air is.
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Spend your time looking for elk. If your finding them consistently you'll be getting in shape to hunt them.
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Your good buddy add sherr will power !
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if you have the work ethic to drop 30 pounds (which you have), you should have the physical ability / mind set to take one down and carry it out.
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A simple one to add is Kettle Bell exercises. Get a 54# and you can start building back, core, arms, and shoulders. Great to add to your squats and lunges. and you can throw it in your pack as you get closer to hunting season.
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Sounds like you are doing well. I would focus on getting the miles up, sore muscles and blisters end a bunch of hunts and those are only conquered through long work. Personally, I would focus more on duration and less on specifics (weight, elevation, type of work, etc).
Another thing to think about is your mindset. At the end of the day, most people give up for reasons that aren't life threatening. In other words, get used to being uncomfortable and build your mind to be able to deal with what you could encounter. I would guess that for every 10 people that end up doing less than they could, 9 would be from their mind failing and only 1 would be from their body giving out.
Go find a big, hairy, scary event and sign up. It could be a marathon, ultra, tri, Goruck, Tough Mudder, STP or whatever you find that you really don't want to do. Two things happen: first, you end up training more and second, you get to the point during the event that you really, really want to quit and have the opportunity to keep going. The same thing happens during hunts, your mind reminds you that camp or the hotel are a short distance away, it's cold, wet and you haven't seen anything for a day or two. Having tools to deal with this is what separates those who go back out just one more time and those that accept all the reasons why the hunt didn't work.
That is probably contrarian advice and maybe a bit deep for a workout discussion, but it is something that has made a huge difference for me.
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The mental part is one of the hardest things to develop as well. As Stein said most people reach their mental breaking point long before they reach their physical limits. It sounds like you have a solid work ethic, I think getting some mountain miles on your boots should round out your physical needs.
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Wow guys, fantastic feedback!!! Thank you all for the tips! The mental part is huge and I will say when it comes to being cold and miserable I have a plenty of experience with that deer hunting in Maine. Most years even seeing deer is a successful year so I spent the last couple years getting use to sitting in -15 all day. Where I worry about the mental part is stated above where I'm physically exhausted (but not completely running on empty) and throw in the towel. I feel like the more prepared I am the more confidence I will have in my own physical ability to keep going. Plus I want to scout my tail off once some of this snow melts. I think knowing what your infor for the area your hunting can really play a part in being mentally and physically ready. I appreciate everything said by you guys and I definitely will keep it up and ramp it up. You guys gave me some great motivation!
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Congratulations on losing all that weight! Rome wasn't built in a day and neither will your elk body.
Mental toughness is definitely something that is trained. The only problem is that it is trained during season.
As far as physical, you seem to be at a point in your training where you shouldn't be doing any hikes without weight. Start light if you must but work towards 80 pounds or more.
I'd also recommend weening off the treadmill and start going on runs. Push yourself further and further.
Good luck!
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One thing that helps me is to use a Crossfit type wood box. Most are built to dimensions of 20x24x30. You can do either jump up on it, or step up on it with your pack on, or wear a weighted vest. Good job on sheding some lbs, that right there helps a lot!!
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Sounds to me like you're on a great path Cab! Would only add what vandeman17 mentioned, throw that ruck on and hike. What are you preparing for? To hump up, down, and sideways in the elk woods with probably a 17 lb daypack (or all in one pack) on your back, if you're in an area that you can hike in (you may get some funny looks if you're hiking downtown Olympia :chuckle:). Treadmills are fine and dandy (put your pack on doing that also, grin), but, I personally have found that with 2 or 3 years of elk hunting under my belt, nothing gets me in better shape for elk hunting than hiking with a ruck on my back. 30 pounds is fine to start but by the middle of July and up till season start, slowly increase the weight in your pack up to close to 50 "and" find a way to hike up and down hills, even if that means just using the local stadium stairs. You'll be surprised at how well hiking with a ruck on, 4-5 times per week will get you in tune with what the mountains have in store for you. RJ
:yeah: And to add, make sure the pack has your actual hunting gear in it. Not a bag of sand. That way you are training the way you will be hunting. The pack will ALWAYS feel different with different loadouts, so it's best to just train as you hunt.
If you're training already, then you're ahead of probably a solid 90% of the hunters already. Keep it up! :tup:
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Congratulations on losing all that weight! Rome wasn't built in a day and neither will your elk body.
Mental toughness is definitely something that is trained. The only problem is that it is trained during season.
As far as physical, you seem to be at a point in your training where you shouldn't be doing any hikes without weight. Start light if you must but work towards 80 pounds or more.
I'd also recommend weening off the treadmill and start going on runs. Push yourself further and further.
Good luck!
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I sure wouldn't train with 80#'s unless you're just walking smooth easy stuff. No reason to risk injury before season ever comes. Just put 25#'s of hunting gear in, and do lots of off trail hiking in steep country. Training is about building your self confidence so you have that mental strength that you can do it.
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Congratulations on losing all that weight! Rome wasn't built in a day and neither will your elk body.
Mental toughness is definitely something that is trained. The only problem is that it is trained during season.
As far as physical, you seem to be at a point in your training where you shouldn't be doing any hikes without weight. Start light if you must but work towards 80 pounds or more.
I'd also recommend weening off the treadmill and start going on runs. Push yourself further and further.
Good luck!
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I sure wouldn't train with 80#'s unless you're just walking smooth easy stuff. No reason to risk injury before season ever comes. Just put 25#'s of hunting gear in, and do lots of off trail hiking in steep country. Training is about building your self confidence so you have that mental strength that you can do it.
:yike: Train as you hunt! Silk's advice is what I would follow. You WILL be faced with a 100lb ruck at some point (or a LOT more loads). Training with 60-80lbs is totally normal. Just don't do it on hardtop pavement - That WILL kill your joints.
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Congratulations on losing all that weight! Rome wasn't built in a day and neither will your elk body.
Mental toughness is definitely something that is trained. The only problem is that it is trained during season.
As far as physical, you seem to be at a point in your training where you shouldn't be doing any hikes without weight. Start light if you must but work towards 80 pounds or more.
I'd also recommend weening off the treadmill and start going on runs. Push yourself further and further.
Good luck!
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I sure wouldn't train with 80#'s unless you're just walking smooth easy stuff. No reason to risk injury before season ever comes. Just put 25#'s of hunting gear in, and do lots of off trail hiking in steep country. Training is about building your self confidence so you have that mental strength that you can do it.
:yike: Train as you hunt! Silk's advice is what I would follow. You WILL be faced with a 100lb ruck at some point (or a LOT more loads). Training with 60-80lbs is totally normal. Just don't do it on hardtop pavement - That WILL kill your joints.
25 lbs is what he was walking around with for body weight 6 months ago.
50 lb bag of sand is really not that hard after a time or two.
As far as injury goes, not sure how humping 80 lbs of sand on a trail is going to be a cause for injury concern anymore them playing basketball or jogging in a busy area would be.
Once you get accustomed to that I would increase weight further. Of course, a solid pack frame/bag helps in these endeavors. I wouldn't be doing it with a Jansport! 😂
But I can't support the idea of NOT training with heavy weight...doesn't compute with me...
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Congratulations on losing all that weight! Rome wasn't built in a day and neither will your elk body.
Mental toughness is definitely something that is trained. The only problem is that it is trained during season.
As far as physical, you seem to be at a point in your training where you shouldn't be doing any hikes without weight. Start light if you must but work towards 80 pounds or more.
I'd also recommend weening off the treadmill and start going on runs. Push yourself further and further.
Good luck!
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I sure wouldn't train with 80#'s unless you're just walking smooth easy stuff. No reason to risk injury before season ever comes. Just put 25#'s of hunting gear in, and do lots of off trail hiking in steep country. Training is about building your self confidence so you have that mental strength that you can do it.
:yike: Train as you hunt! Silk's advice is what I would follow. You WILL be faced with a 100lb ruck at some point (or a LOT more loads). Training with 60-80lbs is totally normal. Just don't do it on hardtop pavement - That WILL kill your joints.
25 lbs is what he was walking around with for body weight 6 months ago.
50 lb bag of sand is really not that hard after a time or two.
As far as injury goes, not sure how humping 80 lbs of sand on a trail is going to be a cause for injury concern anymore them playing basketball or jogging in a busy area would be.
Once you get accustomed to that I would increase weight further. Of course, a solid pack frame/bag helps in these endeavors. I wouldn't be doing it with a Jansport! 😂
But I can't support the idea of NOT training with heavy weight...doesn't compute with me...
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Not training with weight is what will lead to injuries - not the other way around.
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So this morning I used my pack and added 20lbs to it and wore it the whole time during my work out(even with push ups) added squats and tried to keep my normal pace. I was surprised at how well I did with the added weight but was unable to keep at my normal pace. Just going to keep at it, slowly increase weight and add in some shooting with my recurve a couple times a week. I really like the idea of using hills or real incline with my pack and I think I will try that out. I do have issues sometimes with my sciatic nerve so I think by taking my time and increasing my core strength I can avoid injuring that again. I think I have hurt it mostly from going out during season pushing myself and not training before hand so I want this year to be different.
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For me, I never train with more than 50#, most work is in the 30-50# range. I have found that if I can ruck 12 miles in 3.5 hours with 40-50, it is no trouble to jump up to as much as double that for a hunting trip. My theory is that injury is part of training - it will happen. That said, the more weight you ruck with, the greater the probability for injury and the severity and I think there is a point where the odds really stack up.
If I walk with no weight, the odds of injury are very close to 0%. If I ruck uneven ground with 100#, the odds are certainly much higher. I can't catch myself if I get off balance, so I'll twist or go down much more often. Additionally, if I twist my ankle with light weight it usually is no big deal, no injury. If I do it with 100#, it usually is at least a mild injury, often a significant injury.
So, for me, I haven't found much benefit to going over 50# while the risk goes up. I will do a few scouting or hiking trips with more weight just due to the gear I am carrying, but it will be a few times a year vs several times a week in training.
That's what works for me, at my age with my experience.
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i would add running. up and down hills, dirt and pavement. it punishes the feet and joints, but in a way that i deem necessary to get them hard to the rigors of elk mountains. i would expect anyone in my group to be under 45min/5mi before season
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i would add running. up and down hills, dirt and pavement. it punishes the feet and joints, but in a way that i deem necessary to get them hard to the rigors of elk mountains. i would expect anyone in my group to be under 45min/5mi before season
that's running shoes and shorts, not with a pack right? :chuckle:
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i would add running. up and down hills, dirt and pavement. it punishes the feet and joints, but in a way that i deem necessary to get them hard to the rigors of elk mountains. i would expect anyone in my group to be under 45min/5mi before season
I guess that means I need to go do a mileage check this week...😂😂😂
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If you are looking for something to change up your home workout routine I would advocate for T25. I have always been in decent enough shape for hunting, but a couple of years ago I wanted to get into some places that in previous years were "to far". I had been working out 4 days a week for years, but just maintaining until I tried T25. It was humbling at first but it absolutely got me in the best hunting shape of my life. I know that carrying a pack with weight and running uphill will also get results, but i can't do those in my living room when i have a spare 30min.
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Keep in mind why your getting in shape.....its not to pack x amount of weight or run x amount of miles....
My only requirement is you can keep your head in the game and have fun...that takes more physical training for some then others
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Keep in mind why your getting in shape.....its not to pack x amount of weight or run x amount of miles....
My only requirement is you can keep your head in the game and have fun...that takes more physical training for some then others
Ehhh.
Things like FTF said above are more like baselines we've come up with for ourselves for the kind of hunts we do.
And trying to find those baselines for your hunt allows you to "keep your head in the game."
So, in a way...it absolutely is about how much weight you can pack over distance, and how many miles you can run. Because those are the types of training that allow you to be in shape to hunt elk.
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Keep in mind why your getting in shape.....its not to pack x amount of weight or run x amount of miles....
My only requirement is you can keep your head in the game and have fun...that takes more physical training for some then others
Ehhh.
Things like FTF said above are more like baselines we've come up with for ourselves for the kind of hunts we do.
And trying to find those baselines for your hunt allows you to "keep your head in the game."
So, in a way...it absolutely is about how much weight you can pack over distance, and how many miles you can run. Because those are the types of training that allow you to be in shape to hunt elk.
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Sure :tup:
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Keep in mind why your getting in shape.....its not to pack x amount of weight or run x amount of miles....
My only requirement is you can keep your head in the game and have fun...that takes more physical training for some then others
Ehhh.
Things like FTF said above are more like baselines we've come up with for ourselves for the kind of hunts we do.
And trying to find those baselines for your hunt allows you to "keep your head in the game."
So, in a way...it absolutely is about how much weight you can pack over distance, and how many miles you can run. Because those are the types of training that allow you to be in shape to hunt elk.
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you guys must kill a lot of elk
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Keep in mind why your getting in shape.....its not to pack x amount of weight or run x amount of miles....
My only requirement is you can keep your head in the game and have fun...that takes more physical training for some then others
:yeah: I think your on the right track Cab. You know the type of hunt and terrain better than the rest of us. There has been some great advice given in this thread already. My mindset is I can never be in too good of shape, and FOR ME keeping a training regimen throughout the year is a integral part of my feeling of being "lethal" in the elk woods. But I know plenty of stud elk hunters that never touch a weight or run a mile.
Right now if I am hiking its with weight. I am also anticipating more bicycle seat time than I have done in several years, so I have added alot of rides with hill climbs or a loaded trailer. Running bores me quickly, but I like to mix in some runs anyway. Keep all the other stuff fresh. I typically only do a really long duration of anything once a week. The rest of the time I usually get warm and then hit high intensity and hold it there for as long as I can. For me I get more out of a 45 minute blow out in long term gains, than a 4 hour hike where I never feel challenged.
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The big thing for me is to not under estimate the size of an elk. I know how much it can be a chore to get a whitetail out of the woods, now I'm looking at killing an animal that everything weight 3 times more. I never want to put myself in a situation that I feel like I can't physically can't get that animal out of the woods properly. I know all to well how day dreaming compared to reality can be a slap in the face. I've watched a number of guys shoot moose back home and you can just see their face go from excitement to concern when they walk up to that animal and have to think about getting that meat out. I just want to know my limits so that in the end I can have fun by focusing on the hunt and not worrying as much about whats going to happen after I let my arrow fly if I get the chance.
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Cab, how old are you?
ElkNut1
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Cab, how old are you?
ElkNut1
31
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Personally I have had to pack a couple elk out by myself a couple times and a couple mule deer. Elk the farthest was probably 2 miles the deer twice that. Learn how to de bone them. It's tough it worth it. Wear a heavy pack up hills for training. Heavier that's you would in the hills. You won't regret it. It might be hot to that doesn't help. Good luck have fun
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I agree with put your pack together, and go as if hunting. Take some blunts and stump shoot. Simulated hunting is the best prep for real hunting. I'd also recommend developing an interest in fishing high lakes, a great way to motivate yourself to hike in to some mountain locations.
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For me, I never train with more than 50#, most work is in the 30-50# range. I have found that if I can ruck 12 miles in 3.5 hours with 40-50, it is no trouble to jump up to as much as double that for a hunting trip. My theory is that injury is part of training - it will happen. That said, the more weight you ruck with, the greater the probability for injury and the severity and I think there is a point where the odds really stack up.
If I walk with no weight, the odds of injury are very close to 0%. If I ruck uneven ground with 100#, the odds are certainly much higher. I can't catch myself if I get off balance, so I'll twist or go down much more often. Additionally, if I twist my ankle with light weight it usually is no big deal, no injury. If I do it with 100#, it usually is at least a mild injury, often a significant injury.
So, for me, I haven't found much benefit to going over 50# while the risk goes up. I will do a few scouting or hiking trips with more weight just due to the gear I am carrying, but it will be a few times a year vs several times a week in training.
That's what works for me, at my age with my experience.
I have to agree with Stein here. Some of you guys are still pretty young, and running around with 100lb packs is no big deal. When you start getting some miles on your body you well find that doing that for anything other than quarters just isn't worth the risk. Now I know some if you may think that is a copout, but I can assure you that it isn't. With proper training I really don't see it as a necessity. I don't train with much more than fifty lbs in my pack, and I can hold my own with most anyone when it comes to getting my ass up a mountain under load.
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The big thing for me is to not under estimate the size of an elk. I know how much it can be a chore to get a whitetail out of the woods, now I'm looking at killing an animal that everything weight 3 times more. I never want to put myself in a situation that I feel like I can't physically can't get that animal out of the woods properly. I know all to well how day dreaming compared to reality can be a slap in the face. I've watched a number of guys shoot moose back home and you can just see their face go from excitement to concern when they walk up to that animal and have to think about getting that meat out. I just want to know my limits so that in the end I can have fun by focusing on the hunt and not worrying as much about whats going to happen after I let my arrow fly if I get the chance.
You are on the right track! :tup: keep doing what your doing and just remember a load at a time.
Also maybe not related directly to fitness, but I have started using trekking poles on all my pack out, and they are a huge benefit imo. I would highly recommend stuffing some in your pack if you havent already.
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The big thing for me is to not under estimate the size of an elk. I know how much it can be a chore to get a whitetail out of the woods, now I'm looking at killing an animal that everything weight 3 times more. I never want to put myself in a situation that I feel like I can't physically can't get that animal out of the woods properly. I know all to well how day dreaming compared to reality can be a slap in the face. I've watched a number of guys shoot moose back home and you can just see their face go from excitement to concern when they walk up to that animal and have to think about getting that meat out. I just want to know my limits so that in the end I can have fun by focusing on the hunt and not worrying as much about whats going to happen after I let my arrow fly if I get the chance.
You are a smart guy, I remember walking up to my first (and only) bull and wondering why the elk turned into a horse. That said, it comes apart the exact same way and I had really no problem taking it apart myself. Yes, the quarters are larger and heavier, but it is entirely doable. You just have more trips to the truck, 5ish instead of 2ish for a deer on your back.
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Great advice in this thread for anyone wanting to get into hunting shape.
To simulate carrying your bow just take a 7 pound dumbbell with you, you won't get as many funny looks as you do with the bow.
Definitely hike with the pack and boots that you will be wearing and have at least 40-50 pounds in the pack.
Trekking poles are great.
Also the comment about hiking at the same elevation you are going to hunt at is a great idea as well.
Sounds like you are on track, good luck out there this year.
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You are a smart guy, I remember walking up to my first (and only) bull and wondering why the elk turned into a horse. That said, it comes apart the exact same way and I had really no problem taking it apart myself. Yes, the quarters are larger and heavier, but it is entirely doable. You just have more trips to the truck, 5ish instead of 2ish for a deer on your back.
im not trying to get into pissing match, merely trying to show a difference in the training, based on the hunts. the reason some people might be training with 100lbs, is because 5 trips for 1 bull in not feasible. the last bull i packed out, 5 trips would have been over 80 miles. 40 of those under load.
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My philosophy, practice/ train as if it were game time. Do you feel like what you're doing is enough? Do you feel like you have anything left in the tank after training? Are you seriously tracking forward progress? In my experience things are always harder then projected, prepare for the worst and you should do fine. Get your heart rate up and practice shooting with an elevated heart rate. Congrats on dropping some lb's, keep up the good work.
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At 31 years old, do what you're doing by getting your weight down & a moderate full body work out program,. You don't need to do anything superman style for your age, you have youth in your corner. At 50 years old & older you would require a different program & mindset. Do not over think it, you will do fine with a moderate workout & weight control!
ElkNut1
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You are a smart guy, I remember walking up to my first (and only) bull and wondering why the elk turned into a horse. That said, it comes apart the exact same way and I had really no problem taking it apart myself. Yes, the quarters are larger and heavier, but it is entirely doable. You just have more trips to the truck, 5ish instead of 2ish for a deer on your back.
im not trying to get into pissing match, merely trying to show a difference in the training, based on the hunts. the reason some people might be training with 100lbs, is because 5 trips for 1 bull in not feasible. the last bull i packed out, 5 trips would have been over 80 miles. 40 of those under load.
Walking 80 miles with 40 under load seems more feasible then walking 8 miles with 300-380 pounds of meat,gear,and horns on my back
Hope I'm not coming off as sarcastic, I know you guys train hard to get back in there but what's your plan when a big bull hits the ground ? Some of my bigger bulls have had around 300 pounds of meat on em and another 20-50 of horns depending on if I wanted to keep the skull on.....then add in your general gear...lets not even think about a cape ! So 400 pounds to be packed out.....how do you do it ? Even @ 100 pound loads that's 4 trips under weight...so 8 miles in your looking at 32 miles under a 100 pound load
Even with a couple guys we've always made multiple trips doing a leap frog technique as the terrain isn't conducive super heavy loads, usually once to a trail or road it's horses or mtn bikes
Again hope this doesn't come off as sarcastic, just curious at another perspective
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You are a smart guy, I remember walking up to my first (and only) bull and wondering why the elk turned into a horse. That said, it comes apart the exact same way and I had really no problem taking it apart myself. Yes, the quarters are larger and heavier, but it is entirely doable. You just have more trips to the truck, 5ish instead of 2ish for a deer on your back.
im not trying to get into pissing match, merely trying to show a difference in the training, based on the hunts. the reason some people might be training with 100lbs, is because 5 trips for 1 bull in not feasible. the last bull i packed out, 5 trips would have been over 80 miles. 40 of those under load.
Walking 80 miles with 40 under load seems more feasible then walking 8 miles with 300-380 pounds of meat,gear,and horns on my back
Hope I'm not coming off as sarcastic, I know you guys train hard to get back in there but what's your plan when a big bull hits the ground ? Some of my bigger bulls have had around 300 pounds of meat on em and another 20-50 of horns depending on if I wanted to keep the skull on.....then add in your general gear...lets not even think about a cape ! So 400 pounds to be packed out.....how do you do it ? Even @ 100 pound loads that's 4 trips under weight...so 8 miles in your looking at 32 miles under a 100 pound load
Even with a couple guys we've always made multiple trips doing a leap frog technique as the terrain isn't conducive super heavy loads, usually once to a trail or road it's horses or mtn bikes
Again hope this doesn't come off as sarcastic, just curious at another perspective
I'm not going to say one thing or another on how much meat comes off a typical bull elk...but THIS elk FTF is talking about had 225 lbs of boned out meat. We did it in two trips. This was verified with a luggage scale at the TH.
And here's a realistic moment and a testament to why it's important to train with higher weights IMO. We trained with 100+ during the offseason, loaded up the first load to what we felt was close to 80-85 and they ended up being like 60...
And we were smoked.
Train how you feel comfortable, but IMO push your body to its limit.
My favorite quote that I found this year really speaks volumes on this topic, and it's been a driving point for me this year.
"If Misery doesn't find you in the preparation, it will find you on the Mountain."
Good luck, train hard, and slay em.
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That sounds about rite for a couple guys and that much meat....60 pounds is a good weight in the mtns :tup:
Arnt ya glad ya had a partner !
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One thing to keep in mind is that the human body has an amazing ability to adapt itself. Keeping this in mind, make sure you have a variety in your fitness plan. More built for power? focus on endurance first. Change up your workouts where you are running some days but hiking others. change up the weight and surface. Adjust variables constantly to get more out of your workout sessions.
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Congratulations on losing all that weight! Rome wasn't built in a day and neither will your elk body.
Mental toughness is definitely something that is trained. The only problem is that it is trained during season.
As far as physical, you seem to be at a point in your training where you shouldn't be doing any hikes without weight. Start light if you must but work towards 80 pounds or more.
I'd also recommend weening off the treadmill and start going on runs. Push yourself further and further.
Good luck!
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I sure wouldn't train with 80#'s unless you're just walking smooth easy stuff. No reason to risk injury before season ever comes. Just put 25#'s of hunting gear in, and do lots of off trail hiking in steep country. Training is about building your self confidence so you have that mental strength that you can do it.
:yike: Train as you hunt! Silk's advice is what I would follow. You WILL be faced with a 100lb ruck at some point (or a LOT more loads). Training with 60-80lbs is totally normal. Just don't do it on hardtop pavement - That WILL kill your joints.
25 lbs is what he was walking around with for body weight 6 months ago.
50 lb bag of sand is really not that hard after a time or two.
As far as injury goes, not sure how humping 80 lbs of sand on a trail is going to be a cause for injury concern anymore them playing basketball or jogging in a busy area would be.
Once you get accustomed to that I would increase weight further. Of course, a solid pack frame/bag helps in these endeavors. I wouldn't be doing it with a Jansport! 😂
But I can't support the idea of NOT training with heavy weight...doesn't compute with me...
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Not training with weight is what will lead to injuries - not the other way around.
Believe what you want, but I'm not going off trail with 80#'s until I have to. I'm going to get in better shape bushwhacking with 25#'s than trail hiking with 80#'s. May be different somewhere less thick and nasty, but climbing over deadfall with 80#'s is asking for injury.
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The only thing I have to add is my elk hunting usually involves off trail hiking. Walking your own route through the woods is alot different than a logging road or a trail especially with a pack so I would venture out under load at least a couple of times before season.
This is a good reminder for me too. I think Ive finally reached the point I need to get "back" in shape as well.
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I think Ive finally reached the point I need to get "back" in shape as well.
Yeah I agree with you on this one
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The Shuttle pack is a lifesaver for us older guys. Take a load a half mile, drop and go get another load and take it a mile, drop and go get previous load and take it a mile. Gives you time to recover without sitting. Two guys can move a lotta meat this way. We Count on Two shuttle trips with two guys for a big bull or one for two guys for a typical bull.
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At 31 years old, do what you're doing by getting your weight down & a moderate full body work out program,. You don't need to do anything superman style for your age, you have youth in your corner. At 50 years old & older you would require a different program & mindset. Do not over think it, you will do fine with a moderate workout & weight control!
ElkNut1
Words of wisdom from Yoda himself. :yeah:
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WOW I had no idea this topic would spark so much conversation but I'm glad to see so many people sharing great tips and information.This week with my pack on and another 20lbs inside it I have been keeping up my routine but added squats and planks. I went from struggling to keep my normal pace with 7-10% grade to not dropping below 11% and able to finish strong. I have keep up my healthy eating and haven't felt this good in years(sleeping better, twice as much energy during the day and feeling stronger overall). Thanks for all the motivation guys and keep the tips coming! :tup:
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Keep it up! You're doing great! :tup:
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If I was you I'd start adding at least 40oz. You your pack and make sure you take the time to drink it!!!!! Gotta enjoy the process...
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If I was you I'd start adding at least 40oz. You your pack and make sure you take the time to drink it!!!!! Gotta enjoy the process...
Your weight to alcohol percentage sucks if you're packing 40s. Plus glass is heavy.
Stick to bags of wine or repackaged whiskey!
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The one thing that I have found as I have gotten older is you have to fuel the body. I drink fluids and snack all day when I am hunting ,two bottles of vitamin water, two halo oranges, apple slices, peanuts, cheese, beef jerky and a baked chicken breast go in my pack each morning and are gone by the time I make it back to the truck where I have more food ready and another bottle of vitamin water. I have really noticed that it helps with muscle fatigue if I stay fueled up all day.
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The one thing that I have found as I have gotten older is you have to fuel the body. I drink fluids and snack all day when I am hunting ,two bottles of vitamin water, two halo oranges, apple slices, peanuts, cheese, beef jerky and a baked chicken breast go in my pack each morning and are gone by the time I make it back to the truck where I have more food ready and another bottle of vitamin water. I have really noticed that it helps with muscle fatigue if I stay fueled up all day.
I agree. Buddies as well as my old man give me a hard time in the morning when I am filling my pack full of food. I eat often at home so my body is used to it and it helps provide me a consistent source of energy. With that said, eating the RIGHT kind of snacks also in very important.
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The one thing that I have found as I have gotten older is you have to fuel the body. I drink fluids and snack all day when I am hunting ,two bottles of vitamin water, two halo oranges, apple slices, peanuts, cheese, beef jerky and a baked chicken breast go in my pack each morning and are gone by the time I make it back to the truck where I have more food ready and another bottle of vitamin water. I have really noticed that it helps with muscle fatigue if I stay fueled up all day.
I agree. Buddies as well as my old man give me a hard time in the morning when I am filling my pack full of food. I eat often at home so my body is used to it and it helps provide me a consistent source of energy. With that said, eating the RIGHT kind of snacks also in very important.
For sure. I hit a wall in my early 30's, maybe 32, and thought there is no way I can keep doing this until I am in my 60's. My father in law was walking away from me going up hills. Then I figured it out that I couldn't get by on youth alone anymore and started eating smarter, training before the season and hunting smarter. At 35 I was a rockstar again. Now approaching 50 there is no doubt in my mind that I will be able to do this into my 60's and hopefully 70's.
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Update 1 month later:
This last month I have made good progress but I did unfortunately have a minor set back due to a reoccurring injury with my sciatic nerve and lower back. I have had this happen the last few years and this time I was able to finally find out why and how to avoid injuring it again. I found out that I am having the warning signs of a herniated disc, the Dr. believes it is due to my job which had me bending forward for long periods of time to draw(poor posture). Thankfully these were warning signs and nothing serious. After getting a standing station set up at work and doing the stretches recommended I am back to 100%!
Shortly after the injury I was able to hike fairly normal but stopped using the treadmill with weight. By hiking and keeping a solid diet I am down another 10lbs to 205 a grand total of 40lbs in 7 months! My goal of being around 190-195 is now in reach which is exciting as I haven't been below 200lbs in over 10 years. I have started my normal treadmill, push ups, squats and planks with a weighted backpack on(now up to 35lbs) while training again.
I have to give a special thanks to Pianoman9701. I was starting to get frustrated with my injury and honestly wanted to give up training. He took me scouting to a new spot he was excited to take a look at and sure enough we found some elk! Talk about motivation! It was just the boost I needed to get me back on track. Realizing that success might actually be possible for my first year elk hunting and to make sure I take care of myself the best I can this season, I have upgrade 2 key items my boots(Crispi-Valdres) and my pack (Kifaru-Reckoning). I just wanted to make sure I was ready and that my back is healthy for when Pianoman or myself drop that big bull this Sept! :chuckle:
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Sounds like you're on the right path! Lots of people invest a lot of money into rifles, optics, etc before they look at their boots and pack, which will help prevent fatigue and injury. Keep up the good work! :tup:
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Just get fat then you don't have to waste time eating while you hunt .
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Just get fat then you don't have to waste time eating while you hunt .
HAHAHA I like the sound of that strategy!
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Just get fat then you don't have to waste time eating while you hunt .
HAHAHA I like the sound of that strategy!
So I had a plan afterall!! Good to know.
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Awesome, Cab! Congratulations on the progress! Looks like you are doing all of the right things.
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I'm sorry you're having those problems, Cab. And I'm also sorry I was nodding off after our last trip after we got home. I'm afraid I wasn't a great host that afternoon. I'm glad we got into some elk. They're such amazing critters. :tup:
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I'm sorry you're having those problems, Cab. And I'm also sorry I was nodding off after our last trip after we got home. I'm afraid I wasn't a great host that afternoon. I'm glad we got into some elk. They're such amazing critters. :tup:
Pianoman you were a GREAT host, we drove out at 5am so it was a long day. Not a problem about the yawns my wife literally text me to go pick her up just as I left. I'm just excited to get back out there with ya to chase some elk! Gorgeous animals!
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Great work Cab. If it has not already been said, as you start to stabilize in the pack weight, I would add off trail hiking. The range of motion and core strength needed for balance for off trail to me gets closer to hunting situations. Keep it up and build slow to avoid any more possible injuries.
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Just get fat then you don't have to waste time eating while you hunt .
That's what I do, why pack food that takes up space and time and then you have to pack out trash. Just pre-eat for your activity.
In all seriousness, becoming fat adapted has worked wonders for me. I can eat or not eat and it doesn't make a huge difference and the blood sugar crashes, hitting the wall and all that fun are pretty much things of the past.