Training your feet for long distance hiking

admin August 21, 2007

Conditioning your feet for long distance hiking is merely a matter of…hiking. Nothing replaces getting out on the trail with weight bouncing off rocks and pushing yourself. I do find it difficult and sometimes I am too lazy to put all my equipment together, but I know I need to work up some miles to condition both my feet and my body for my upcoming long distance hikes.

Here are some ideas on how to get your feet happy…

1) Hike Barefoot for a few miles on the weekend. This is a great way to really put some stress on your toes, a short distance during the weekend or evening will go a long way to training. A bit awkward in some parts of the world I know. Try this product out. Vibram: FiveFingers Classic. These are just enough protection for rocks and such and will can really ease the pain of breaking in your feet.

five fingers classic

2. When on training hikes, ALWAYS wear your sock/shoe combination that you would on the PCT. When trained in your exact gear your feet will begin to find the sweet spot and your comfort level will go way up.

3. Short trail runs. Awesome way to get the blood in your feet pumping and help them tighten up.

4. Heavy weighted day hikes. Strengthens your back, legs, upper body and definetly trains your feet for abuse.

5. Back to back training days. Up to about a month before you are leaving, start taking back to back hikes of 15-20 miles, with your pack weight. This is probably the most important means of training your feet (and your body) for the hike ahead.

6. Signup for the FixingYourFeet newsletter! This site is filled with quality articles, tips and products on preventing and taking care of your feet and blisters.

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