Physical Fitness

Table of Contents

Physical Fitness

We’ve covered getting your mind in shape for a long hike. Now let’s look at preparing your body.

Do I need to be in good shape to thru-hike?

You don’t need 6-pack abs to thru-hike. In fact, sometimes starting with a little weight to lose can be a benefit, because you won’t have to worry as much about losing too much weight. But you do need to be strong. Exactly how in shape you need to be depends on the trail you are doing.

  • On some trails that have lots of water and campsites and a large window to finish (think the AT), you can start the trail pretty out of shape and walk le...

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