Do You Need To Train For The Appalachian Trail? (Physical and Mental Prep)

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  • Опубликовано: 24 ноя 2024

Комментарии • 75

  • @renarantscomics7262
    @renarantscomics7262 2 года назад +16

    I know people 👀 at me like I'm crazy constantly incline training on the treadmill at the gym ..Buuuuut when I hike it's so so much easier. I'd recommend incline training at the very least if anyone is concerned with a sore body. Throw on your pack and use it !! It's weight

  • @pungo147
    @pungo147 2 года назад +16

    I trained for almost a year before my AT thru hike in 2021. My routine consisted of a combination of weights, cardio and walking - lots of walking. I started the trail in GA in excellent physical condition, which also helped with the mental aspects of the trail. For me being in good shape was definitely an advantage - at least during the first 5 or six weeks. What ultimately got me to Katahdin was maintaining a positive attitude. Yes, post trail depression is real and can be hard to deal with. I'm still a little down (after almost 12 months) and miss the trail. Staying connected with my trail friends has helped and planning my next thru hike has given me something to look forward to.

  • @stevecannon7214
    @stevecannon7214 2 года назад +4

    Thanks for sharing the "big picture" issues for preparing, completing, and dealing with the aftermath of a long thru-hike. As I listened to your words, I thought they could also be applied to most of us and our journey through life (prepare, start slow, learn as you go, don't quit on a bad day, hike your own hike, focus on others, no rain-no pain-no Maine, enjoy the view, it can't rain forever, simplify, put one foot in front of the other, focus on the positive, give back some trail magic, it is ok that you didn't finish - at least you started and did great things). I hope I can remember this.

  • @sway_onthetrail
    @sway_onthetrail 2 года назад +30

    Post-Trail depression is such a serious thing that really isn't talked about enough. I lost a friend to it. About a year after completing the AT in 2016ish, he couldn't assimilate back into society and ended up taking his own life. RIP Cody Hawkins, think about you often.

    • @Applebottompenis
      @Applebottompenis 2 года назад +6

      Being suicidal is like being trapped 10 stories up in a burning building that isn't putting out any smoke: nobody on the ground can possibly understand why you're jumping out the window. In fact, if you ask for a ladder, they may refer you to the stairs.
      Unfortunately, it never starts with post-trail depression but it can end there. Post con depression has killed people, too. Don't wait until it's already too late to check on your friends, and don't wait until you see that dramatic warning sign you're expecting, because it'll never come. This is probably obvious to you now OP but that understanding seems to come too late to most of us.

  • @rowansheppard4062
    @rowansheppard4062 2 года назад +24

    As someone who is about to start hiking Te Araroa in October. If you have family getting concerned bring them in on the planning process. My mum was freaking the hell out, but after showing her all the planning and training she is now totally on board. Even wants to come do a section with me.

  • @rodneyslattum379
    @rodneyslattum379 2 года назад +9

    You're right about enjoying the moment. I remember hiking
    over a hill in Washington. At the bottom of the hill was a small lake covered with snow geese, they saw me, took flight, circling to gain elevation they flew 10 feet from my eyes. In Idaho getting out of my tent by Horse Thief Lake I watched an eagle circling in the thermals above the water no more tan 20 feet from me. Pack of coyotes singing next to my tent welcoming a new day for me. Being eyeballed by a momma moose. These and many more memories will always be with me.
    You are right, appreciate every moment.
    My moments are guiding me to my recovery that is taking what seems like forever, but I am getting there.
    Your videos keep reminding me of reasons to persevere in my endeavor to hike in the mountains

  • @papajeff5486
    @papajeff5486 2 года назад +3

    Heh, heh, I started my adult life in the Army Infantry. I got out, went to school, and retired from the Army doing anesthesia as a CRNA. Everyday I wear scrubs (PJs), in cool, climate control. Going back, to wet, cold, tired and hungry, humping a ruck, for weeks at a time, kinda makes me, whew…I remember and it was miserable. This time my backpack will not be 60-80 pounds. I know more about protecting myself from the, SUCK. I know there will be times of SUCK. This time I will have more knowledge, more control, more perspective, doing MY hike. Thanks for your lectures, over and beyond the call of duty. You’re a mighty fine lady. Kentucky

    • @papajeff5486
      @papajeff5486 8 месяцев назад

      “The sun’ll come out tomorrow…bet your bottom dollar….”

  • @JohnGalt1960
    @JohnGalt1960 2 года назад +5

    I'm about to live my 60th year.....im not in prime shape anymore.....I live in North Florida and I think I'll spend a lot of time hiking the Florida trail before I consider the Appalachian trail....I may never hike the Appalachian (idk)......but the FT goes right through my area and has many miles along the Suwannee river which I've been paddling on for 40 years.....and it's relatively flat and close to my home base.

  • @jeffmartin3406
    @jeffmartin3406 2 года назад +1

    Don't be ashamed to cry, emotionally it is very hard. I seen girls and guys weeping about this and that but your smile will always return.

  • @robertjeffery3237
    @robertjeffery3237 2 года назад +8

    This is probably one of Dixie's best videos. Because of her I will be starting my through hike next March on Springer Mountain. Thank you, Dixie,!

  • @Saras.Serotonin
    @Saras.Serotonin Год назад +1

    Hey Dixie, not sure if you read these. But I’m planning on starting my thru hike of the AT in May (I’m doing a flip flop) and I have been starting to get nervous. The mental prep you talked about in this video helped me so much, it brought me to tears. Thank you for all you do, it is much appreciated ❤

  • @HankOutdoors8052
    @HankOutdoors8052 2 года назад +13

    Thanks for this video. It really helps people especially me. I've hiked for a while now but nothing big. I started section hiking the AT and so far 300 miles down. Also thru hiked Foothills Trail. In my middle 60' s so I do take my time and listen to my body.But I love nature, keep up the great videos and thank you

  • @NessHikes
    @NessHikes 2 года назад +5

    To hike long distances with elevation change and tough terrain with a pack requires strength, endurance, and range of motion. Build strength with resistance exercises (weight training, calisthenics, etc), endurance with cardiovascular exercises (walking, running, stairclimber, plyometrics, aerobics, etc), and range of motion with yoga or any other dynamic stretching. Also, focus on strengthening your feet, ankles, and knees to avoid injury- there's tons of videos on this topic. Of course, nothing will simulate a thru hike like a thru hike- but getting in the best shape you can before you go will absolutely help you hike faster, hike more miles, and avoid injury. Getting used to having a heavy pack on your back while you hike will help as well. One final note: a higher body weight or body fat % doesn't mean "out of shape" just like having a lower body weight or body fat % doesn't mean "in shape". I've known many people who are considered "in shape" (based on their appearance because they're thin) who can barely lift a gallon of milk or make it up a flight of stairs without being completely out of breath. And I've known people who are considered to be "overweight" who run marathons or are competitive weight lifters. It's not about what your body looks like, it's about what it can do 💪

  • @ms7fam433
    @ms7fam433 2 года назад +11

    Thanks for continuing to share your experiences...both the good and the bad. You pouring back into the hiking community is greatly appreciated.

  • @JohnnyRumpassBuns
    @JohnnyRumpassBuns 6 месяцев назад

    I am going on a thru hike in 1 month in my home state in Australia that is 1000kms (624 miles). I have been watching for the past few months and have learned so much.
    As someone who used to suffer with depression im so afraid of the post hike depression bringing that back. But I'm so excited to accomplish the Bibbulmun Track and the thousand kilometres.

  • @kman-mi7su
    @kman-mi7su 2 года назад +5

    Physical and mental prep is important on the AT or any trail that can challenge you. I served in the US Army and we have a saying, "Train like you fight, fight like you train".

  • @Mr_Nobody913
    @Mr_Nobody913 2 года назад +6

    Being in good shape is just overall good for you in every way. I suggest exercise to everyone. Loving the retouch of the series to address questions and help new hikers. Keep on hiking Dixie!
    Also, in the words of Eric Draven: “It can’t rain all the time.”

  • @diamondeyethunderbow5678
    @diamondeyethunderbow5678 2 года назад +4

    After a 3 day section hike and a ton of uphill, I can say I'm sure that I need to lighten my pack, but I plan to also lighten myself! I don't plan to thru-hike until retirement, but it occurred to me that I could shed an entire pack - complete with water and food! - and that would probably make thru-hiking a lot easier. I had the most oversized, impractical sleeping pad, and changing it for something lighter would save me 2 pounds, but I could save 20 pounds by getting serious about losing some weight!

  • @johnmcadam7493
    @johnmcadam7493 2 года назад

    Got back into outdoor adventure back in 2015-2016. After my first canoe trip I knew then that I needed to train for adventure. Being fit and functional became my priority. My off-season is all about calisthenics, primal movements, and kettlebells.
    The following trip in 2017 ( and subsequent trips ) my mates realized how much better/quicker/stronger/faster I became at portages, rucking, and paddling.
    Discipline = Freedom !

  • @comeseetheviolenceinherent579
    @comeseetheviolenceinherent579 2 года назад +6

    I had severe depression when I got home from Iraq. I missed my buddies. I missed the foot patrols in 110° temperatures. I missed bullshiting around the patrol base. I missed weird stuff.

  • @chuckhines459
    @chuckhines459 Год назад

    I love being by myself so that is one aspect of hiking the trail I'm looking forward too.

  • @brib9716
    @brib9716 2 года назад +2

    Climbing up and down mountains is no joke. In addition to being in shape, the less weight you have in your pack the better.
    Also, take it from someone who knows. Look into how to strengthen your ass and hips in order to prevent IT band pain.

  • @billd8167
    @billd8167 2 года назад +4

    I would say that for a hike of any great distance you should be in prepared both physically and mentally.

  • @justbob4731
    @justbob4731 2 года назад

    Having watched and enjoyed so many of your video's, I can say this one probably hit home with me the most. So many video's out there are geared towards presenting all the beauty around you while on trail, but none are geared so in depth as this one on the mental and emotional prep needed to 1. - Plan your trip. 2.- begin your trip 3. - maintain good mental health on the trail 4. - complete your trip and 5. - deal with the aftermath of "Post Trail Depression". Thanks so much for this. I know there will be many of us that will be able to benefit from this. I know I will on my upcoming thru hike.

  • @nickhikesinthewoods6150
    @nickhikesinthewoods6150 2 года назад +2

    This is great that Post trail depression is absolutely for real even if it's day hiking

  • @jeremypease6191
    @jeremypease6191 2 года назад +3

    Getting ready to start the 9/11 Memorial trail on Thursday. It is 1300 miles long and connects all of the 9/11 memorials together

  • @Bosko57
    @Bosko57 11 месяцев назад

    Thank you for all of your videos. They have helped me tremendously in planning my upcoming through hike. I hope thank you in person someday on the trail !

  • @lethiapage4767
    @lethiapage4767 2 года назад

    Aside from health and physical conditioning theres stuff you want to do to prepare.
    Learn how to use your gear such as adjusting your pack, setting up your tent, working your water filter. Break in your footwear. Know how your sleeping bag and coat work for you...that is do you need a zero bag to feel comfortable at 40°? I do. How do your clothing layers work for you best? Practice your knots and fire building skills. Practice pooping in a hole. Practice your backpacking recipes. And make sure you have prepared yourself for improvising with fewer items, adapting to situations you cant control, and doing without a lot of luxuries.

  • @CrimeVid
    @CrimeVid 2 года назад

    I prepare all the time, I listen to you talk about it in all aspects, then I watch you do it !

  • @larryoliver6935
    @larryoliver6935 2 года назад

    It is a joy just to watch you and hear you talk..

  • @theoutdoorrookie645
    @theoutdoorrookie645 2 года назад +1

    Hi I'm new here, I'm a primitive survivalist I live wild and free, I have anxiety before, it's hard to breathe you sleep but you awake, I struggle every day to survive to come back in the real life, no one can save you but only you' don't be afraid in anxiety and depression, they are just in your mind don't allow them to control you, they are stuck in your head, you have strong physical body use it and dwell to see the beauty of nature.

  • @drivingmissmolly
    @drivingmissmolly 2 года назад +1

    On my first backpacking trip of this year, I was planning doing 8 miles per day, easy right? Wrong! 😂 I did about eight miles the first day and as soon as I set up camp, I threw up everything I ate and drank that day. Everything. Felt absolutely horrid so the next day, with no food and hardly any water in my body, I hiked what felt like the longest 2.2 miles of my life to the road where I sat for five hours waiting for my ride. Thank god I had my Zoleo and could text someone to pick me up. Lesson learned; I can only do about six miles a day right now)

  • @AidaJof
    @AidaJof 2 года назад

    Obviously, you do not but most people will have to train.
    My friends are used to my far distant adventure but when I told them of my latest one I was me with sckepticism and at my age might have questionned my sanity. That was about 7 months ago but I have been training all my life but more intensely for the past 5 yrs. It is worth mentioning, I was going to do this in May 2020 but we all know what happened. Now my friends have since learned more about my spiritual journey & adventure and are more understanding & excited for me.

  • @garywood702
    @garywood702 2 года назад

    Thank you for posting this. It answers the question I had posted to you.

  • @jimmyjamgto5448
    @jimmyjamgto5448 2 года назад

    Love, Love, LOVE you Dixie! You just make me so happy! Love your videos and your spirit of freedom and adventure. Thanks for including us all with your adventures and sharing your knowledge. Cheers!

  • @jjjohnnyjoker9727
    @jjjohnnyjoker9727 2 года назад +2

    hello dixie. i am suffering of pre trail depression. it sucks big time. lol

  • @kcstafford2784
    @kcstafford2784 2 года назад

    I will never be able to tell you how you help me help others your golden to this old cowboy

  • @Jeff-jg7jh
    @Jeff-jg7jh 2 года назад

    Old guy here. Folks might be negative about your plan to go hike when you haven't gotten a job yet and have, oh, say, 10K of student dept above you. Oh, wait, that's taken care of. Old guy. Dixie, you are such a beautiful lady. Seems like decades since your AT hike. You are marvelous.

  • @TXMEDRGR
    @TXMEDRGR 2 года назад

    When faced with a very difficult situation, I don't let quitting be an option.

  • @edeveland7834
    @edeveland7834 2 года назад

    Gradually adding weight also gives you the opportunity to try out different combinations of gear

  • @allenarquette158
    @allenarquette158 2 года назад +2

    I start march 15

  • @MariaSimpson-rp1os
    @MariaSimpson-rp1os 4 месяца назад

    I wanted to see if you might have a good stuff sack size recommendation. I may tentatively start an AT hike in early February. I know weather conditions are going to be very rigid then, so I know I'll need extra winter layers. I want to use my stuff sack as my pillow, as well as for my clothes, so what are your thoughts on stuff sack size? Thanks!😊

  • @ferdonandebull
    @ferdonandebull 2 года назад

    I was always a a meanderer. I never planned on more than ten miles for any walk.. if I made it it was fine but if I did more that was okay.
    Ten miles sometime is easy.. but in the hills in is less easy.. setting longer distances is stressful..
    Those days you don’t get ten will balance out on those days that go to 12 or 13..
    That drive to get to a town is dangerous… a day or so longer is not a horror story..
    Lonely makes you do the wacky.. keep the wacky down…
    But then I never stayed out more than three days…lol

  • @donghadave5210
    @donghadave5210 2 года назад

    From my perspective, young is the best physical condition that you can be, it’s possible for a wide age range so if it moves you, go.

  • @rockytopwrangler2069
    @rockytopwrangler2069 2 года назад

    ... Good video Dixie ,, comments,,tips and tricks on specific topics are a great way to share to the many that reach out to the related topic ... good job coach Dixie ...
    ... At the end with group hugs ,, kinda expected to see you with a long bushy beard too ..... lol ..

  • @mosquitoeslovejohn
    @mosquitoeslovejohn 2 года назад

    Wow.
    What a blizzard of videos!
    I can hardly keep up 🙂💫🙂😎

  • @bobmcelroy7289
    @bobmcelroy7289 2 года назад

    So good!

  • @kerrir1955
    @kerrir1955 2 года назад +3

    Have you given any thoughts to doing the trail again? With all your better gear and more experience are you curious about how you would do a second time?

    • @HomemadeWanderlust
      @HomemadeWanderlust  2 года назад +3

      I have! Just not sure when yet

    • @michaelsakowich7026
      @michaelsakowich7026 2 года назад +1

      She would have to go in disguise on the trail because of all her fans.😂😂😂

  • @TexasRoast
    @TexasRoast 2 года назад +1

    In the great words of Shia LeBeouf, "JUST DO IT!!!"

  • @daniellearmato845
    @daniellearmato845 Год назад

    Hi Dixie! I’m not sure if you’ve covered this - none of the titles seem like it covers it. What do people do for health insurance on trail? I will have none unless I pay 700-800/month to stay on my family’s COBRA. I can’t seem to find any options.

  • @dudley5658
    @dudley5658 2 года назад

    ❤️. You have inspired me to go check the mail.

  • @CCB249
    @CCB249 2 года назад

    You are amazing!

  • @lisaweppler1669
    @lisaweppler1669 2 года назад

    Dixie, would you consider hiking the wonderland trail? maybe next year?? Peach

  • @walterlangston4484
    @walterlangston4484 2 года назад

    on A section hike meed some one who thru hike 5 times and was doing the 6th trip

  • @walterlangston4484
    @walterlangston4484 2 года назад

    there is A national park justt short drive from my house and get wield looks from people day hike trails wearing A heavy backpack lol

  • @EatCarbs
    @EatCarbs 2 года назад

    Thanks for the video

  • @modestadventurers
    @modestadventurers 2 года назад

    Luvs you Dixie.

  • @brianferris1233
    @brianferris1233 2 года назад

    three million steps is a lot work

  • @walk-tall-hikes
    @walk-tall-hikes 2 года назад +1

    Wow first view of a Dixie video, that's never happened before!

  • @machineman6498
    @machineman6498 Год назад

    👍

  • @duncang01
    @duncang01 2 года назад +1

    Yes, don't pack a 95 pound backpack and headout.

  • @goonbuggy1135
    @goonbuggy1135 2 года назад

    Not really, youll either grow into it or you wont.
    Most of the american trails seem to be pretty manicured, guess that just comes from the numbers that walk them and waters pretty common.
    Once you have to start carrying 4 days water in 38-45C (100 - 113) heat. That sorts a lot of people out.
    I do wonder Dixie, how youd go carrying a extra 8kg/ 16pds, just in water weight a day. That would probably just blow your pack out out.

  • @MrAvidOutdoorsman
    @MrAvidOutdoorsman 2 года назад

    I miss your original smile. 😞🤗just saying🤷‍♂️😎😂, I imagine you feel more confident with straighter teeth, though your a good looking gal either way and I appreciate what you do and all the time you spend thinking about us and how you can share your experiences and skills with us for no cost. Thanks you again Dixie!!!🤗 You can tell me to take a hike if you want!😳🤪

    • @Mr_Nobody913
      @Mr_Nobody913 2 года назад +2

      Maybe don’t start your messages by literally dissing someone as a “joke” hehe haha “just saying”

  • @Audioobscure
    @Audioobscure 2 года назад

    how many videos do you need to make on the same thing? there are tens of thousands of backpackers. you're just greedy and want attention

    • @JAaronMattox
      @JAaronMattox 2 года назад

      Seems like you want attention. These are the worst performing videos on this entire channel. Maybe she just wants people to hike the Appalachian Trail