Embarking on a Himalayan hike is a thrilling and awe-inspiring adventure that challenges both the body and the mind. The majestic peaks, pristine landscapes, and the sense of accomplishment that comes with reaching the summit make the Himalayas a bucket-list destination for many avid hikers.
However, preparing for a Himalayan hike requires careful planning and dedication to ensure a successful and enjoyable journey. Whether you’re planning to go solo hiking or with your group, it’s essential to train your body and mind to handle the challenges of high-altitude trekking.
At Infinite Journeys, we believe Pune has some excellent training grounds right at our doorsteps. The city is blessed with numerous hiking points that can help you get ready for your next big adventure. Let’s explore the key steps you can take to get your body ready for the Himalayan adventure ahead.
Developing a Comprehensive Training Plan
Let’s understand this – going to the gym has its limitations when it comes to preparing for outdoor adventures like hiking and trekking. It’s difficult to replicate the conditions you’ll encounter on the trails in a gym setting – things like uneven terrain, changing gradients, and varied surfaces. That’s why it’s so important to get outside and practice on the real thing.
Cardiovascular Fitness
The foundation of your Himalayan hike training should be a robust cardiovascular fitness routine. Hiking at high altitudes places significant load on your heart and lungs, so it’s crucial to build up your endurance through activities like running, cycling, or swimming. Aim to gradually increase the duration and intensity of your cardio workouts, with a particular focus on activities that simulate the terrain you’ll encounter on your hike.
Strength Training
In addition to cardiovascular fitness, building strength in your lower body, core, and upper body is essential for tackling the challenging terrain of the Himalayas. Incorporate exercises like squats, lunges, deadlifts, and planks into your training regimen to develop the muscle groups needed for hiking.
Boost Flexibility
Whether you’re climbing over rocky outcroppings, descending from high ledges, or navigating through muddy, snowy, or stream-crossed paths, your ability to move fluidly and adapt to the changing conditions will make a significant difference in your experience. Incorporating targeted stretching and mobility exercises into your training routine can go a long way in preparing your body for the demands of the trail. Focus on improving flexibility in key areas like your hips, hamstrings, and ankles, as these muscle groups play a crucial role in your stability, balance, and overall comfort during your hikes and treks.
Choosing Hikes and Walks
Plan Tekdi Walks
The tekdis around Pune, such as Vetal Tekdi, Durga Tekdi, Parvati Hill, and Taljai Tekdi, provide excellent training grounds. These gradual inclines are perfect for building up your leg strength and endurance, which are crucial for trekking. Make a habit of going for walks on these tekdis a few times a week. Start slow and gradually increase the duration and intensity of your workouts.Aim to eventually be able to walk for 1-2 hours at a time. This should be possible for you on a few days of the week before you head to the office.
Explore Pune’s Forts
Pune is also home to numerous historic forts nearby, like Sinhagad Fort, Raigad Fort, and Lohagad Fort, that make for great training hikes. These trails often involve more challenging terrain, with uneven steps, rocky paths, and steep ascents – exactly the kind of conditions you’ll encounter on a Himalayan trek. Make it a point to visit these forts regularly, at least once a month. Increase the frequency of these visits from September to February when the weather is favourable and hikes are a pleasure. Not only will it help you build physical fitness, but you’ll also get to explore Pune’s rich history and natural beauty. Get in touch with Infinite Journeys for Hiking Tour Packages from Pune.
Use Stairs Often
Incorporating the habit of using stairs into your daily routine can be a welcome change in your lifestyle and a significant step in preparing for your Himalayan hiking adventure. By making the conscious choice to opt for the stairs instead of the elevator, you’ll gradually build up the endurance and leg strength needed for the rigorous hikes ahead. This simple yet effective habit can be easily incorporated into your daily life, whether it’s taking the stairs at work, in the mall, or even at home. Over time, this practice will translate into enhanced stamina and a greater sense of readiness when it comes time to conquer the Himalayan peaks.
Training with a Backpack
One crucial aspect of preparing for a hiking or trekking adventure is getting used to walking with a weighted backpack. The pack you’ll carry on your trek can weigh up to 10 kilograms or more, and this extra load can significantly impact your endurance and overall comfort on the trails. It’s highly recommended to train with the actual backpack you plan to use on your trek, if possible. This will allow you to get a feel for the weight distribution and how it affects your balance, posture, and stride.
Start by carrying a light load, such as just a water bottle and a snack, and gradually increase the weight as you build strength and stamina. Aim to eventually carry a pack that’s as close as possible to the weight you’ll be lugging on your actual trek.
Note: Many hikers prefer not to walk with their backpacks (and like to carry only a light backpack that essentially has water bottles/hydration packs and rainwear (depending on season). Some want to enjoy the nature scape around while few have back issues. At Infinite Journeys, we do not insist that you must walk with your backpack when we plan the treks for our guests. We arrange for mules and/or porters to take the bags to the campsites/stays.
Prioritizing Hydration
Proper hydration is crucial for a successful and enjoyable hiking or trekking experience, especially in high-altitude environments. As your body works harder to adapt to the lower oxygen levels, it becomes even more essential to keep your fluid levels topped up.
Dehydration can lead to a range of issues, from light-headedness and headaches to more serious problems like cramps and fainting. It can also exacerbate the symptoms of altitude sickness, making the acclimatization process even more challenging.
To avoid these pitfalls, make a conscious effort to drink water regularly, even when you don’t feel thirsty. Invest in a hydration pack or a water bottle with a convenient drinking tube, as this will encourage you to sip frequently throughout the day. Aim to drink at least 3 litres of water per day, adjusting your intake based on the intensity of your activity and the environmental conditions.
Choosing the Right Hiking Tour Packages from Pune
When it comes to planning your Himalayan hike, consider exploring the Himalayan Hiking Tour Packages from Pune offered by reputable adventure tour operators like Infinite Journeys. Our hiking packages are designed to provide a seamless and well-organized experience, taking care of all the logistics and ensuring you have the necessary support and guidance throughout your journey.
We offer a variety of Himalayan hiking tours that cater to hikers of all skill levels, from beginner to experienced. Our team will ensure your Himalayan hike is both safe and memorable. If you want to practice hiking in Pune and around, Join our FREE WhatsApp group to get informed about upcoming hikes, share tips with fellow hikers, and explore new heights of adventure!
Embark on your next adventure with Infinite Journeys
Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a novice explorer, we offer the perfect trekking experience tailored to your needs. Our Fixed Trek Departures are a great way to connect with like-minded adventurers from across India, guided by experienced Trek Leaders based in Pune. You’ll enjoy the thrill of the journey, forge new friendships, and create lasting memories.
If you’re looking for something more personalized, our Customizable Treks are ideal for groups of friends or families who want an exclusive adventure. With our extensive network across the Indian Himalayas, we ensure top-notch safety, quality equipment (tents/sleeping bags etc.), and certified local leaders who bring the terrain to life. Choose your dates, plan your route, and get ready for an unforgettable trekking experience, free from distractions and perfectly suited to your group’s preferences.
Popular Treks that we organize are:
(Note: The list is not exclusive)
- Kuari Pass Trek
- Har Ki Dun Trek
- Kashmir Great Lakes (KGL)
- Pindari and Kafni Glacier
- Ali and Bedini Bugyal
- Everest Base Camp (EBC)
- Annapurna Base Camp (ABC)
Link for Pune Walk: https://chat.whatsapp.com/EF1HMQLonrn6Yb1M99Z7ke
For enquiries for treks, connect to Rahul on 9822508986 / rahul@infinitejourneys.in
