Tapering before a hunt

[mad_angler]

I have about 3 weeks before an elk hunt. Any advice for tapering?

I've been working pretty hard and my legs are sorts sore. I know I should take but I'm wondering when to start and how far to actually cut back.

Also, what about food? Should I try to keep eating about the same even though I will be worrying out less? Should I try to lose a few pounds before the trip or would a calorie deficit be a bad idea...



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[mtnbound]

I have about 3 weeks before an elk hunt. Any advice for tapering?

I've been working pretty hard and my legs are sorts sore. I know I should take but I'm wondering when to start and how far to actually cut back.

Also, what about food? Should I try to keep eating about the same even though I will be worrying out less? Should I try to lose a few pounds before the trip or would a calorie deficit be a bad idea...



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With 3 weeks, I would start reducing the days and or intensity of the workouts. You want to peak before the season, not be beat up going into it. I would take the final week completely off or do zone 2 training. I would continue to eat normally, as you will most likely lose weight during the season, depending on your hunting style.

 

[Marbles]

Do a 2 or 3 week taper.

If you feel pretty solid after your rest day and don't have any nagging issues, the make next week a peak week, then a 2 week taper.

If you still feel fatigued after your rest day, or have any nagging issues or you have started being slower, then do a 3 week taper.

2 week taper:
1st week cut volume be 60%
2nd week cut volume by 50% (will be 30% of peak week volume).

3 week taper:
1st week cut volume by 50%
2nd week cut volume by 50% (25% of last full week)
3rd week cut volume by 40% (15% of last full week)

Obviously avoiding anything that might injure you and don't add anything new to your training.

Don't stop moving, but basically you are doing a prolonged active recovery phase.