Hunting and fitness go hand in hand, and taking time to get in shape for your hunt could make a massive difference in how you feel throughout it.
Whether hunting for meat or sport, being in shape is essential when exploring rigorous and extreme mountainous terrains. Of course, being a successful hunter does not necessarily mean you need to be a gym rat or a fitness pro. But having a certain level of health and fitness is an essential part of hunting and allows you to be the best version of yourself in the backcountry.
Learn how you can get in shape for the upcoming hunting season below.
5 Ways to Improve Your Health and Get In Shape for Your Hunt
- Get Out and Hike — Cardio is an integral part of your health and fitness journey, and rucking (walking or hiking with a weighted pack) is one of the best ways to get your heart rate up. If you’re an avid hunter, you know firsthand how rugged the terrain can be in remote hunting areas. Being able to handle extreme land and going farther for longer could make a huge difference for a successful hunt. Getting outside in the steep mountains for a hike or heading to your local gym to use the stair stepper can build your strength and increase your endurance.
- Improve Your Nutrition — A major part of your overall health is the food (and drink) you put in your body. If you want to see results, in addition to feeling them, you’ll want to make sure you’re eating a balanced diet packed with protein, fiber, fruits and vegetables, and healthy fats. Additionally, make sure you’re drinking at least eight glasses of water daily.
- Build Your Core — A strong, solid core is essential for hunting. You’ll probably spend hours in your tree stand or ground blind, and maintaining good posture can be challenging. But by strengthening your core, you can last for countless hours waiting for your perfect shot. Make sure to include exercises that will help build up your core strength, such as planks, Supermans, and reverse crunches.
- Leg Day — In addition to a strong core, strong legs are critical, so make sure you don’t skip leg day! Include weighted squats and lunges in your workouts. This will ensure you can handle your physically demanding hunt and quickly load your harvest into an ATV, onto a horse, or carry it down the mountain yourself.
- Stretching — Sitting around for the ideal trophy buck to walk by for hours and hours can wreak havoc on your body, creating an assortment of health issues. Make sure to stretch your body morning and night, as well as after your exercise sessions. Stretch your hip flexors, neck, and any areas you worked out.
Book Your Next Hunting Adventure with The R & K Hunting Company Today!
Whether you can get in shape for your hunt to handle rigorous and steep terrains or have special needs and require minimal foot travel, the outfitters at The R & K Hunting Company are here for you. Our team can individualize your hunting experience for an unforgettable Rocky Mountain hunting expedition in the scenic hills of Utah and Wyoming. Our skilled crew will take the headaches and hassles out of planning and preparing; we’ll put together the perfect hunt for you! Contact our team to book your next hunt today!