For hundreds of years, people have taken up the irrational hobby of climbing up mountains just for the fun of it. The idea of scaling Mount Everest or Kilimanjaro is more popular than ever thanks to the hype on social media. If you are looking to get into this activity, you should seriously prepare yourself as it isn’t something for amateurs.
While it’s certainly true that you will be reliant on gear to a certain extent, you won’t go far on a real mountain with weak muscles. The strength of your back, grip, and forearms will be the determining muscles on whether you can complete a climb.
Hiking will prepare you mentally and physically for real mountaineering expeditions. Strap on all your hear and intentionally take routes uphill to strengthen your legs and prepare for the worst. Even if you don’t live near mountains, you can do hill climbs at parks if available.
Adding gym work to your routine is also recommended as it can take muscle strengthening to a level practice runs cannot. Consider using lat pull-down machines, dumbbell rows, and forearm training exercises, which any commercial gym should have equipment available.
It would also be useful if the gym has an indoor climbing wall. This will allow you to get used to awkward grips and feet positions that you may encounter with natural rock formations. Most people end up with a stronger grip just from climbing walls.
If you are planning on tackling infamously treacherous mountains, like climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, you are probably better off having your life in the hands of experts.
Going along with professional mountaineers, you will be guided the safest route possible while expanding your knowledge about scaling mountains. They will also be able to call in the proper authorities when an accident happens or the way back is blocked off.
For high-up mountains, altitude sickness shouldn’t be underestimated. As there is significantly less oxygen in the air, someone not accustomed to the change will have poor endurance and may even pass out. In even more severe cases, pulmonary or cerebral edema may occur.
You will need to acclimate by going on more high-altitude hikes to get used to the change. Be sure to breathe deeply and stay hydrated to reduce symptoms during a climb.
In a realistic scenario, you would also have to worry about food. Set the ego aside and realize that you probably won’t survive long by trying to hunt or living off your fat. Pack very nutrient-dense rations, like energy bars, cheese, bread or and dried fruit
Mountaineering is a serious and physically demanding sport that should be taken lightly as a recreational activity. If you plan on scaling a world-famous mountain for fun and Instagram pictures, you may want to consider something less dangerous. In any case, you should bring along a guide to reduce the risk of something happening during your first real climb.
