The following is a rough training guideline for people to follow in the build up to completing Tony's Three Peaks Challenge in April 2010. I have structured the kind of training sessions you might and ought to be completing ahead of the event itself. Given that some of you won't have trained for anything like this before there are a few key things you should bear in mind:
1) Train with a Plan – if not this one, make up your own. With long and short-term goals, that are challenging and achievable, these will help you keep focused and motivated throughout training.
2) Be consistent - the benefit of training in advance of the event allows for a slow, gradual increase in your fitness. This is the goal to work towards; where no single session is a too challenging and training becomes integrated within your lifestyle. Common mistakes revolve around people thinking they can cram training, or be inconsistent - making up for missed sessions at the next opportunity.
3) Balance your training requirement with the rest of your life - family, friends and work commitments
4) Use your time well - don't be overcome with the weekly requirements or that one big session at the weekend. Can you share the training with a partner or training buddy or make better use of your lunch hour? Maybe replace that short drive with a good brisk walk.
5) Listen to your body - If you feel run down or your muscles ache your body might just be telling you to take a rest. Get quality rest, enough sleep and keep well hydrated to help your body as you expose it to the regular stress of training.
Hillwalking requires cardiovascular fitness, leg strength and good mobility. Having a controlled weight will obviously help and is an additional benefit of long term training.
Committing to regular training is obviously dependant on your health and any existing injuries or complications need to be taken into account.
Start now, get lots of sponsorship and get good boots! Your determination and enthusiasm will count for little if you blister early in the challenge. Look forward to seeing you all in April.
Download the Training Guide
