Ok fitness experts, what about fencing as training for backpacking?

[milstdfarm]

I've been using fencing as my training for a 30 mile, 3 day backpack trip in the mountains of Yellowstone this summer.

In a similar thread active in the past couple of weeks someone said running long distance doesn't help much with the short burst needs of fencing. Does it work the other way around? Am I not doing enough to get ready? I live at 600' elevation, we will be backpacking at over 8000' elevation.

If I have to do more I will. After all, I want to be in good enough shape to have fun carrying my pack and still avoid being eaten by grizzlies (and by 'avoid being eaten by grizzlies', I mean, run faster than my fellow backpackers if we see a bear)

[Allen Evans]

It's my understanding that fencing using a completely different energy pathway than the sort of long, slow, endurance work you're talking about getting ready for (and at elevation, to boot).

There seems to be at least one thread on F.net about dealing with bears. I don't think it said anything about running from them.

AE

[noodle]

any physical fitness is better than none. if you want to optimally train, though, your best bet is to go on hikes locally.

plus, 10miles/day is pretty average, unless the terrain is rough. your average hiker will cover 2.5mi/hr, or so. you'll be fine if you're fit.

[Superscribe]

Depends on the grade and the load you're carrying, i think. I train with a lot sprint and shuttle work. My bpm suggests i'm i good shape. I cannot run distances anything close my other friends who are about the same weight and height. I can give you about 3 mi before you can stick that proverbial fork in me. Interestingly enough, it doesn't matter if I'm clocking 7 minute miles or 10 minute miles. My muscles give out, while my cardio is okay.

Problems i think you might encounter are your muscles suffering from fatigue, and also the development of shin splints from the grade and loads you might be carrying on those grades.

How to correct for this? Stretch your legs out and work the fronts of your shins (toe taps). Do it now. Try running long distances to compliment your fencing work outs.

[snarsdale]

Try fencing with a 35 pound backpack.

[magic_moose]

I have found fencing to be excellent training for backpacking. Based mostly on 15-25 mile winter hikes with 40 lb packs.

Increases stamina and unquestionably leg strength.

[telkanuru]

any physical fitness is better than none. if you want to optimally train, though, your best bet is to go on hikes locally.

plus, 10miles/day is pretty average, unless the terrain is rough. your average hiker will cover 2.5mi/hr, or so. you'll be fine if you're fit.

Your average hiker covers maybe 1-2mi/hr with no pack. An experienced backpacker can do 2-3mi/hr. Those thru-hiking the AT or something get up to 4.

10 mi/day is pretty small potatoes, so just try not to be a walking heart attack and you should be able to manage.

And break in your boots.

[sabrebelle]

I completed a 6-day backpacking trip in Yellowstone last September, and fencing was EASY when I got back, which means that you need to do more than fence to get ready for your hike.

You literally cannot prepare enough for backpacking at 8000 feet. Just walking at that altitude is an aerobic exercise. Fencing will help with your leg strength, but I recommend hiking/jogging uphill as fast and as often as possible, with increasing weight in your backpack. Be sure to wear whatever boots you plan to bring on your trip, as they need many weeks of wearing in before you hike 10-mile days with a 40lb pack.

What hurt me the most on my trip was my calves, my blisters, and the hip belt on the backpack. There's not much I could have done to prepare for that, but the harder you train now, the more you will be able to enjoy the amazing scenery in Yellowstone.

[Don Badowski]

May I suggest the StairMaster, set on a high enough level so that it feels like you are trying to walk on water. Three times a week should do it.

Amusing Yellowstone Bear Story - About 15 years ago I saw an article in a magazine. I man was found mauled to death in Yellowstone. A hundred feet away from his body they found his camera. The park rangers developed the film. Picture of bear cubs playing. Picture of momma bear entering the frame. Picture of momma bear beginning to charge. No more pictures.

[Grasshopper]

Fencing is great training for backpacking because you have to lug your fencing stuff to practice. Fencing = backpacking w/o the campfires.

[Grasshopper]

Amusing Yellowstone Bear Story - About 15 years ago I saw an article in a magazine. I man was found mauled to death in Yellowstone. A hundred feet away from his body they found his camera. The park rangers developed the film. Picture of bear cubs playing. Picture of momma bear entering the frame. Picture of momma bear beginning to charge. No more pictures.

It sounds like the baby bears had their way with him while momma watched. Sick, twisted bears!

[bigdawg2121]

So for once someone posts a thread that basically has a "MAKE FUN OF ME" sign on its forhead and NO one so much as cracks a joke at the OP's expense.....et tu FNet?