[pct-l] Training for a thru-hike

[plongton at pacbell.net (Paul Longton)]

Blake Boles wrote, "Can some old-time PCT thru-hikers give me advice on pre-training for the hike?"
 
I run 5 to 6 miles most days and prior to my 2004 PCT hike it was no different. What I added in the months before the hike was to run hills at Torrey Pines State Park (San Diego area) and walk up and down steep trails along the bluff above the ocean. I am convinced the hills made a huge difference in being trail-ready. I think it is far more useful to find a trail where the tread and incline are uneven (like the PCT) rather than the machines available in a gym..., but a gym would be better than nothing. I also think that some of the best pre-training anyone can do is to be as lean as possible - don't start off with excess weight.
 
What was interesting is that while the steep trails and trail-running, in my opinion, made the beginning of the PCT easier..., when I returned from the trail..., the steep trails and trail running was as hard as ever. So while the training helped for the hike..., the hike didn't repay the favor. Oh well..., I'm running again and loving it. Buzz