Training For Kilimanjaro

At over 19,000-feet, Mt. Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest summit. The trek to the Roof of Africa is a strenuous and committing trek that requires proper preparation for maximum success. To ensure the best chances of success on Kilimanjaro, it’s essential to have a proper training plan and start getting shape for high altitude trekking as soon as possible.

Tents perched on a rugged mountainside overlook a breathtaking sunrise over expansive, shadowy peaks. Great example of views and environment to be expected on Kilimanjaro.

When starting to train for high altitude trekking, the focus should be on endurance, strength and stamina. On the mountain, expect hiking days of 6 to 8 hours, with summit day being 12-16 hours, and carrying packs from 5 to 10 pounds. Please note that porters will be carrying your gear minus your daypack, which includes clothing, water, and food. The perfect training program focuses on the same skills and conditions that should be expected on the trek. Thus the focus should be on strengthening core and legs, plus hiking uphill for extended hours with a heavy pack.

Workouts should alternate between cardio and strength training with a well- balanced schedule of each. Plan a week of an hour to two hours of workouts each day with one rest day or day dedicated to a ‘fun’ activity such as hiking, biking, or cross-country skiing. In planning any major training program, vary different locations and activities so that the program doesn’t become repetitive and boring, which can be discouraging.

Start with aerobic activity to stimulate a healthy heart. Run stairs and climb hills as much as possible while slowly increasing duration and intensity. The goal is to be able to hike up to eight hours with minimal fatigue. Alternate between bike riding, stair climbs, and climbing bigger hills to utilize different muscles and keep the exercise varied. Budget for a minimum of 30-minutes per session. Over time, increase the heart’s ability to pump more blood, thus supplying more oxygen, especially at higher altitudes.

Endurance training allows the body to gradually accustom to moving for an extended period of time. Incremental changes in the overall routine can help accomplish this goal. Work on increasing weight in a pack while doing stair climbs, setting “challenges” like trying to take time off a certain hill or trail, and increasing the intensity of strength training.

Strength training should alternate between upper and lower body, with a focus on building muscle that will power and sustain. As much of the Kilimanjaro trek focuses on walking across uneven terrain, one of the key goals is to increase core fitness, not just in the stomach but the back as well. Furthermore, work on increasing strength in the shoulders and upper back in order to accommodate for carrying a heavy pack. For the lower body, work on strengthening the calves through squats, wall sits, and weighted step ups in addition to the interval and endurance training.

Given a proper training regimen, as well as a healthy diet and hydration, Kilimanjaro, while still an intense and difficult trek at high altitude, is made much more enjoyable. The goal of the program is to increase overall endurance and strength, while increasing cardiovascular ability and carry a weighted pack over an extended period of time. Colorado Wilderness Rides and Guides is dedicated to improving the overall fitness of each member on our team to maximize the best potential for success.