Backpack Training - Adding Weight/Miles Question

[mfsights257]

Hello, I've been backpacking 4 miles x 3-4 times a week w/ 25lb pack; Not sore after it, little winded on hills. Is increasing 5lb & 1 miles a month too much, too little, about right?

Goal is 10 miles w/ 50 lb Pack by fall.

Thanks for your help!

 

[hunting1]

We are a GoRuck club and do a lot of rucking. I think your plan is sound. My only advice is wear good foot wear as you get heavier. You will notice going from 25-35 lbs when the miles get higher. We have been doing weekly Bataan training with 40-lbs and I start feeling it around 8-9 miles. Have fun!

 

[justinspicher]

I have been rucking my entire adult life and I have never added weight that wasn’t needed. Carrying a pack on your back adds enough stress as it is. Personally, I hike, training or hunting with the same gear I’d actually be using. Just my thoughts though……

 

[mtwarden]

In regards to the miles I'd consider adding one longer hike per week, I think keeping the others at 4-5 are fine. You want to build your base up and keeping most of the hikes at a lower exertion level and 3-5 miles at a relatively easy pace will do that. One longer hike, slowly progressing the length.

I'll very often carry a pack throughout the year, weight varies on wether it's a backpacking trip or a long day hike (probably 10-30 ish lbs depending). I don't get too serious about heavier weight until about 8 weeks out. It's a slow progression (starting at 30-ish lbs and finishing at 60-ish) and I only do it twice a week, but still will hike without a pack 3-5 miles, 3-4 times a week (building/maintaining the base).

The key is building the base, slowly progressing the longer hike and slowly adding weight to your pack. Recovery is a component that a lot of folks don't figure, make sure it's included. Strength training twice a week (large compound lifts) will help your effort as well.

If you put in consistent hiking 3-4 times a week and progressing slowly, until hunting season you'll have no trouble by then with 50 lbs and 10 miles

 

[whereisfredbeckey]

In the past, I have been able to increase distance and pack weight without too much trouble...if it is flat. For me, the key variable is the elevation gain. So, I would factor that into your plan. My guess is you won't be hiking a railroad grade in the Fall. It is worth finding the steepest trail and use that as a monthly check-in to find out where your fitness is really at.