How to Condition to Climb Mt. Whitney

Located on the edge of Nevada and California, Mt. Whitney is part of one of the toughest mountain ranges for hikers in the United States. At just over 12,000 feet, the hike to the top of Mt. Whitney is classified as a strenuous climb, according to the Mount Whitney website. The hike is so tough you will need a permit to even enter Mt. Whitney's hiking zone. Such statistics may sound intimidating, but with reliable gear and intense conditioning, you could conquer Mt. Whitney.

Instructions

1. Practice on easy trails and then start hiking on progressively rougher terrain. If you go on Mt. Whitney when it is snowing, train on snowy trails. Progressively hiking higher and steeper trails helps you build leg muscles and endurance. In addition, hiking can help you prepare for fatigue and light-headiness. Walk about 10 to 12 miles of mild to rough terrain each week.

2. Build your upper strength. On a hike, you must bring a heavy hiking pack that includes food and drinks to counter fatigue and dehydration. With upper strength, the weight of your hiking pack will not slow you down. Push ups, pull ups, lifting dead weights and other exercises that target your upper and core muscles will help your hike.

3. Prepare your breathing. Besides training your upper and lower core muscles, you must train your internal organs. Swimming is a full-body workout that can help you develop breathing techniques that prepare your lungs for the loss of breath you will most likely endure during your hike.

References

• Mount Whitney: Climbing Mount Whitney
• National Park Service: Climbing Mt. Whitney
• International Mountain Guides: Mt. Whitney Summit Climb
• LA Times: Peak Condition: Four Hikers Start Mt. Whitney
• "The Breathing Book"; Donna Farhi; 1996