Hi Folks,
I have a question about physical conditioning for AT north bound AT thru hike I plan to start mid march at Sprnger Mountain.
I am a bit confused fromwhat I have read. On the one had.. I read that the trail itself will condition me..and as long as I start with relatively low milage (10 per day or less) I will gradually get into shape. I also understand that being in condition at the start helps..and may even help in the mental aspect which from what I have read is key to a successful thru hike.
Currently..my health is good, I am 42 years old, and my physical condition is ok but not great. I have done a lot of hiking in the past (all white mountain 4000 footers, Completed the vermont Long Trail in two trips --18 days 1st 200 miles, 8 days last 70) and hiked portions of the Alps. I am generally NOT a fast hiker. I like to enjoy the trip and don't care for the speed hiking philosophy. I have not done much if any hiking this past winter and spring. And with winter one tends, or at least I tend, to eat more and exercise less. so I am now in less than optimal condition physically.. I have weight to lose which is easier said than done as I love to eat! For the time being..I am able to genenerally just do day hikes or weekend trips due to time limitations.
So.. how critical is ones pre hike physical condtion to a successful and enjoyable thru hike? Is it mostly mental challenge and proper gear? is it mostly being fit at start? Is it a combination and if so which is most important? I guess to put this more clearly....in my preparations for my AT hike spring of 2006, what should get most priority? physical conditioning? gear selection? logistical planning?
Thanks in advance for advice!
NHhiker