How to Get Fit for a Long Distance Hike (2024)

Planning a long distance hike? Here are some tips that I’ve picked up along the way to get your body prepared…

You may have asked yourself – “Why should I train for a hike – surely I’ll get fitter as I go?” Itis true that you will find it easier as the days progress but the fitter you are, the more you’ll enjoy your self-guidedmulti-day hike from the very start.

This is a guest post from Walking guide Gill McMillan who has been leading walking adventures all over the world for many years. Here she shares her top tips to prepare your body and fitness levels for a long distance trek in Scotland.

Have a look at yourintended routeand note down the distance you’ll be walking on the longest day. That’s the goal you shouldaim for. Look to see if ascent and descent are mentioned and factor this in. This matters more than you might think; you might befine walking the dog on flat ground, but add in a hill or two and it will become more challenging.

Tip: Figure out your longest day, factor in some hills and work up to it.

Start well in advance, I’d recommend three months minimum before if you aren’t used to regular exercise. The goal is to increase breathing and heart-rate so that you can walk uphill while still being able to hold a conversation. When it gets too much, slow down or stop to catch your breath. It will get easier as you do it more often.

Tip: Build up your stamina over time

Any exercise that increases cardiovascular fitness will help. Swimming and cycling are good options but even climbing the stairs instead of using an escalator or lift are a start. The key, as most experts will tell you, is to build up your stamina by exercising little and often. It’s far better to have four half-hour walks in a week than a massive day once a fortnight.

Tip: Mix up your fitness training and do shorter blasts regularly

Develop a good relationship with your new boots before the long walk.

As your fitness increases you’ll also bewearing in yourboots. Walking short distances will allow your feet to get accustomed to new boots. Try out different socks to get a comfy fit. Wool ones are best but you can try different weights.

Tip: Don’t attempt a long hike in new boots

Read:Guide to footwear for hiking in Scotland

If you normally use an inhaler, even if it’s only occasionally, do make sure you bring it with you on your trip. It’s always better to know it’s there rather than wish that you’d brought it along.

Tip: Put any prescribedmedicationon your packing list even if you only use it occasionally

Trekking poles can be very handy too, especially for coming downhill. If you have trouble with your knees they can really help to take some of the strain off.

Tip: Read this blog post abouthow to use trekking poles

Be honest with yourself if you are setting yourself a big walking challenge and you haven’t exercised for a while.

Tip: Visit yourGP prior to your trip if you have any health concerns.

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Ourfoodie guide to the West Highland Way

Getting fit for sea kayaking

Watch our short 1 min and 30-second film about Self Guided Walking Holidays in Scotland.