Mountain climbing is a very specialized sport requiring a high level of physical fitness. There are many ways to train, but we advise that you focus on “Sport Specific training,” which involves doing things like going for long hikes uphill (or using gym equipment) to get in shape for your sport. A typical week of training for a climber includes four to six sessions. Even though training activities during the week are usually shorter than weekend walks, there are still plenty of chances to grow and improve.
Fitness for Climbing
Mountaineering training focuses on cardio-respiratory endurance, flexibility, and strength training that are all geared toward the needs of the sport. If you follow the training tips, your climb up the mountain will go more smoothly. The average person takes four to six months of training to summit Aconcagua.Please read all the tabs on the Aconcagua guided climb page to learn everything you need to know about how to fit you need to be for this ascent. If you have never trained for climbing, you should look at many different resources to devise a good plan.Prepare For the Aconcagua Climb
You’ll need to be in peak physical shape for this expedition to the top of Aconcagua (22,829 ft./6,962 m), including having excellent strength and endurance, high altitude tolerance, self-care skills, and cardiovascular training. Even if you work out frequently (say, six days a week), it might not be enough to have you in peak physical shape for an Aconcagua trek to the South American summit. Many people who are physically fit enough to finish a marathon or triathlon can’t make it to the top of a high enough mountain. Heart health alone is not enough. You should train to climb the Normal Route, which involves a 3,500-foot ascent over several days while carrying 45 or 50 pounds. So you can enjoy the trip without having to carry heavy loads or do double carries and keep the pack weight down to help you get used to the altitude. On the Vacas Valley Route, the trip starts with a 30-mile walk that takes three days and is helped by mules. On the Normal Route, the walk is shorter. Assuming you’re healthy and injury-free, you should prioritize your training.- Training for ascents, including uphill walking, trekking, and stair climbing Aconcagua while carrying a heavy pack
- Exercises that strengthen the legs and abs
- Aerobic and anaerobic exercises are performed without carrying any additional weight.
- Work on your flexibility.