How Do I Prepare My Body for Backpacking?

By Michael Ferguson

Backpacking is a popular way to explore the outdoors, but it can be a physically demanding activity. To make sure you can enjoy your backpacking trip to the fullest, it’s important to take steps to prepare your body for the journey. Here are some tips for getting ready for an upcoming backpacking adventure.

Strengthen Your Legs

Your legs will often take the brunt of your weight when you’re carrying a backpack, so strengthening them before your trip is essential. Incorporate exercises like squats and lunges into your regular routine, as well as any specific leg-strengthening activities that you may be interested in. Additionally, it’s important to practice carrying your backpack and walking on uneven terrain if possible before setting out on your backpacking trip.

Condition Your Core

Your core muscles are important for both stabilization and balance while you’re carrying a backpack, so taking time to condition them is worth the effort. Incorporate core-strengthening exercises into your regular workout routine or try activities like yoga or Pilates to Target this area of your body specifically.

Increase Your Endurance

Backpacking trips often involve long days of strenuous hiking, so having good endurance is key. To prepare, include aerobic exercises in your workout routine such as swimming, running or biking. If possible, practice hikes with a loaded backpack on similar terrain that you expect to encounter during your backpacking trip.

Fuel Up Right

Eating the right foods before and during your backpacking trip will help fuel you up and keep you going throughout the day. Try to focus on nutrient-dense foods that have plenty of carbohydrates and proteins such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Be sure to stay hydrated throughout the day too – bringing lots of water with you!



Preparing for a backpacking trip doesn’t have to be difficult – just focus on strengthening your legs, conditioning your core muscles and increasing endurance through aerobic exercise. Additionally, make sure that you’re getting enough fuel in the form of nutrient-dense foods and plenty of water! With these tips in mind, you should be ready for an amazing backpacking adventure!