Get more out of your conditioning hikes - Nutrition

You can get a lot more out of your next “conditioner” (typically more than 8 miles and 3,000 feet elevation gain) than just aerobic exercise.  Consider working on your navigation skills, clothing systems, and food/water systems in addition to getting a workout.

Nutrition – On conditioning hikes, try different types of food and see what keeps your motor running.

• This is especially useful if you are experimenting with carb-type energy drink mixes or eating energy gels (Gu) for 8 hours straight.
• Start your food experiment right when you get up.  Eat the same meal you’d plan for a multi day climb, which might be a couple of Granola bars at 4:00 am or some instant oatmeal.
• Did you finish your hike with 1 pound or more of extra food?  You’ll want to bring less next time (an “extra” food ration of a 1 oz. Gu packet or two are all you really need).
• Remember the yummy summit snack!
• By making your food intake on a training hike day match what you’d really eat on a climb, you’ll have a much better idea what your body needs to operate well in the alpine world.