Appalachian

shack1157

I was wondering if anyone on MFP has ever hiked the Appalachian Mountain Trail for a week at a time. I have dropped 96 pounds and my family: Brother, Nephews and myself are planning a trip early next summer maybe spring. We are going to hike the first leg on a five day hike. If you have can you recommend any work outs or exercise that will benefit me on this journey that would be great. Thanks for your imput!

Sallycinnimon

Bump. Sounds like something I'd like to do!

UpEarly

I hike and backpack all the time! (in fact, mostly on the Appalachian Trail). My house is really close to the trail as it passes through Virginia. The best thing you can do to get in shape for multi-days is to actually get out and hike with a pack. If you don't live near a trail, or can't get outdoors to walk, load up your pack and walk on a treadmill set to a tough incline. I also think lunges and squats are really valuable. They'll strengthen your quads and hamstrings and help stabilize your knees.

MindyBlack

I never have but it is on my bucket list. Or it would be if I had one. Now I have to make a bucket list. :happy: Seriously, I would love to do this if I had some good experienced peeps to do it with.

Channing

I've never hiked a whole week of it before, but i grew up in the NC mountains and would go on day long hiking trips on the Appalachain Trail. As for exercises to prepare, I would say mostly endurance cardio and maybe some stair stepper... it's steep!

calderst

I've done 2 & 3 day trips on the AT in WV but never trained specifically for it. One thing I've thought about doing though is getting a weighted vest and walking the treadmill on an incline. I haven't been able to get the vest though.

Good luck and be sure to take your camera!

lawtechie

not an exercise tip, but clothing tip. Layered clothing and no NEW hiking boots. Make sure you break them in by wearing them for long walks for at least a week before to your trip.

Just regular walking can help and increase the mileage over time. Depending how in shape you are now, i'd try to train for a few months ahead of time.. The trail will have more as others said have more inclines, rocks, obstacles so leg movements can help. If you have an exercise bench step over that from left to right and back. That'll get your legs used to any sideways movement and make them stronger.

Sounds like fun and a great bonding experience!

shack1157

I have done day trips in the Smokey Mountains every time I go to the mountains. But never tried the week long hike! I have been looking forward to this for awhile now! Just want to be in good shape to help make it a good trip!

gersoco

I love the Appalachian Trail.. When I lived in NJ, I used to go to the Delaware Water Gap with friends and we'd be hiking and camping along the trail. Great views, greats vistas, and I was always amazed at all the different people and freaks one meets out in the middle of nowhere.