What are the best gym exercises for high altitude trekking on Kilimanjaro?

Question

I'm planning to trek Kilimanjaro at the end of the year and have started attending the gym. What are the best exercises/equipment for trekking and should I concentrate on cardio over weights etc.

Answer 1

Stairmaster and angled treadmill. You want to be lean and light on your feet, not heavily muscled. Might want to do some real hiking, and if possible, high altitude hiking. Do you know how to do the "rest step"? http://www.mountaineers.org/Climbing/News_Events/CN204_rest.html

Answer 2

I can tell you from my experience that step machine excercise, when done consistently, works really well for your purpose. I conditioned myself for a climb on Mt. McKinley in Alaska using that technique. You don't need any weights exercise. You have to do the Stairmaster routine at least 3 times a week, for a few months. Be sure you are healthy enough for this.

Answer 3

I would do them all. You need to have strength, muscle AND endurance. I would:

1. start running. This will build your endurance.
2. lift weights. Just start getting tone...no need to be a body builder. Lots of reps with lower weight
3. do Yoga. This will strengthen your core.
4. meditate. just start breathing consciously. this will help with higher altitude and you will be calmer when you do the hike. you'll enjoy it more.
5. if you are in an area with a higher altitude, try training at that altitude.

Answer 4

The step machine for sure.
You really have to develop and strengthen all your leg muscles and your glutes! (Tushy)
Both cardio and strength training are important for hiking. Take a yoga class too because you need to be limber and flexible to reduce any chance of injury when you are "trekking".
Good Luck!
Hope your trip is safe and wonderful! How exciting!

Answer 5

Lot's and lot's of walking i should think.