Yes, backpacking is exercise but.... I've heard PCT hikers lament how wasted they get especially their upper bodies. A week into a 4-5 week walk I'm already feeling this. Ski season is just around the corner. I ran yesterday and did some agility drills. Very sluggish. After walking all day, I tend to be unmotivated to do any maintenance conditioning. Even stretch. Had to do some scrambling and use some fixed ropes a couple times -- felt so good after just walking.

Directed at winter athletes, triathletes, etc. Do you supplement your walking with on trail conditioning of some sort?

One could easily do midday exercise for the upper body by carrying a theraband (very light weight) or even using their gear, along with body weight exercises (push ups, etc).

Edited by jshann on 11/25/2009 07:17:13 MST.

My arms actually get a pretty good work-out by simple trekking poles,i never put them down while hiking/backpacking.
The motion resembles that of X country skiing.