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Stabilization
Establish a solid foundation focusing on balance, coordination, and joint stability.
Designed for backpackers aiming for everything from weekend trips to long thru-hikes, our Backpacker’s Bootcamp enhances stability, strength, and cardiovascular endurance. This top-rated program prepares you for any terrain, ensuring you’re ready for the wilderness’s demands with confidence and robust fitness.
At OAT, we’re dedicated to empowering hikers and backpackers to reach new heights in their outdoor adventures. Our Backpacker’s Bootcamp is founded on science-based training methods aimed at reducing injury risk and boosting performance on the trail. Whether you’re gearing up for your first extended trek or tackling challenging multi-day hikes, we’ll help you develop the strength, endurance, and stability needed to make every journey memorable and rewarding.
EXCELLENT Based on 50 reviews Jackson Knepper2025.06.17.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The OAT team is very involved and willing to help you out on an individual level with questions and thoughts on how to improve your workouts. The workouts themselves are awesome and lots of fun! Highly recommend Jeanette Linder2025.06.10.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mikey Bell has created a fantastic training app for hikers of all levels. I have been off the trail for a few years due to injuries and surgery. I also had bad knee and foot pain for decades before. I was worried I would never hike again. Mikey modified the workouts and slowed down progression to fit my needs. I started his app in February and am so happy to say that I am back! I managed a beautiful Fairylands hike in Bryce at altitude and without time to acclimatize. My knees and feet did great. Amazing. And my everyday life is easier because I can go up and down steps way better than before. Thank you Mikey! Sarah Birkle2025.06.04.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The summit strength program helped to bring structure to my routine while training to climb Mount Rainier. I don’t know a lot of people who train for mountaineering objectives and I am a beginner myself. I was following a loose training program based on information I was learning along the way. I am so grateful that I got connected with Mikey on one of the free discovery calls. I talked about my goals and he helped get me dialed in over the last two months before my trip. The programming was easy to follow and I quickly saw a progression in my strength. Mikey was very encouraging and available to answer my questions. I successfully made it to the summit of Mount Rainier with a guided group on June 2nd 🙌🏼 Ward Stutz2025.05.27.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I booked a backcountry ski trip to Svalbard and knew I had to be in better condition to ski and climb for multiple days in a row. I found OAT on IG with great reviews so I signed up for the Backcountry program and couldn’t have been happier. The progression and intensity of exercises was well developed and did a great job of getting me in shape so I really enjoyed my trip. I really looked forward to the workouts as well; they were fun and challenging. Mikey was always very responsive to the questions I posted with great advice and encouragement. I can’t say enough good about OAT. Veronica Shukla2025.05.25.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Now at the completion of Backpacking Bootcamp, I feel qualified to comment on my experience with OAT. I started the program very weak. I hadn’t exercised much more than walking for several years due to ongoing weakness episodes that rendered me couch bound. I have since gotten that issue under control (🤞) so it was time to regain some muscle to support my joints and future endeavors. I chose OAT after viewing a YouTube video Mikey had created about training for elevation for flatlanders. The videos and app made it much more likely for me to complete my scheduled workouts on time and to actually push through them. I lack motivation for lifting and indoor workouts and am a procrastinator. I also loved the verbal motivation of upcoming backpacking trips and hikes, not “looking good in a bikini” or some other silly stuff that will never be true for this stretched out 40-yr old mom. The results have been astounding. I haven’t lost much weight (not enforcing a calorie deficit as I’m working on other health-related priorities), but I have transformed a lot of fat into a lot of muscle. I have quads again. I have a bit of a butt, which I thought was exactly impossible for my body type. Lunges and squats have gotten progressively easier over the last 3 months. Each week we are scheduled a long hike with progressively longer time on feet, more pack weight, and more elevation. And each week they, paradoxically, feel easier, because of the work I’m putting in during the week inside. I have been recommending OAT programs to everyone I know who is interested in outdoor activities. I am headed for a long trip now, but when I get back, I will absolutely start another OAT program. Probably ridge runner. I never thought I could run again after I started developing a weird knee issue a few years ago. I was devastated, but eventually accepted it. But last weekend I (probably quite stupidly) attempted to drown some feelings in a long trail run that I had not trained for. And my knees never had the problem. I was sore in new ways but I was completely able to tolerate it due to this program. THANK YOU so so much, Mikey, for this program. You have saved my sanity. You’ve given me back options I thought were lost to me. You have motivated me and molded me. I owe you so much more than the paltry fee I paid for your amazing program. And to everyone else, you have nothing to lose with a free trial. It is 100% worth it. Cassidy Quistorff2025.05.21.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. If you like to play outside in any capacity, Outdoor Adventure Training is for you. I love to ski, bike, hike, play frisbee, and trail run. The difference I’ve seen over the course of the program has been truly life-changing. I honestly didn’t know how my friends could ski or board all the way down a hill without stopping while I was constantly having to take breaks because of the burning in my legs. Now my friends are having to keep up with me! 😉 The freedom this program gave me to not only explore all my outdoor goals, but thrive and not have to worry about my physical limits has been the best experience. Not only that, but Mikey is super responsive and willing to help and adjust the program to your needs and questions. Honestly if you’re reading this review, just go for it now! Download the app and program, challenge yourself, and watch yourself become the best outdoor athlete you can be. 💪🏼🏔️⛷️ Renee Spear2025.05.19.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. OAT is everything that I've been looking for in a training program. I am currently in the Summit Strength program prepping for a Mt. Baker summit this year. I HIGHLY recommend this program to anyone looking to train for outdoor adventures of any magnitude. Mikey's approach to outdoor training is incredible. I see a direct application of each training session to my goals, and I have seen huge results on the trails in the last ten weeks or so of training. The program is very fun with easy-to-follow videos and timed workouts. Furthermore, Mikey drops all kinds of fun facts and queues during the follow-along videos that I've found to be incredibly useful. He's also great at communicating and supporting his clients. If you're looking for a training program, look no further! OAT will get you prepped for your next adventure. dev laxman2025.05.18.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I did my Salkantay trekking prep with OAT and the training helped me a lot. Highly recommend to anyone prepping for adventurous activities! philthechef2025.05.14.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. How lucky I was to stumble across OAT and Mikey Bell on YouTube two years ago. At the time I was preparing for a knee operation and used his videos on YouTube to get as strong as possible pre op. So when I was planning to tackle the Haute Route this last winter I knew there was one person I needed to have my back. I signed up for the 6 month Alpine Touring program. I loved every moment of training with Mikey, even though I’m all the way over in France I felt like I had my own personal trainer right there with me. Having a schedule to follow, which was also adjustable to fit around life, kept me accountable and most importantly consistent. I trained even when I didn’t feel like it because I didnt want to feel like I was letting him down!! Anytime I had question or concerns Mikey responded so quickly. At one point just before the Haute Route I got really sick and concerned I’d lost all my hard work. Mikey managed to dig me out of my hole and totally change my mindset. In the end the Haute Route was a massive success and I put it down mostly to being prepared by OAT. I cannot recommend OAT and Mikey enough to anyone who wants to take on any challenge in the mountains from multi day events to tackling your local hill. Everyone is made to feel capable and important. Bravo Mikey and thanks again buddy, you da man! Cob Peier2025.04.03.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mikey and his programme have been the perfect preparation for continuing hiking as an older person. I didn't realise how underdeveloped so much of my body was! I feel many years younger and so much stronger and less prone to injury. Also, recovery time is drastically reduced with much less pain. I appreciated the cadence of the workouts and the calm of the way it was presented. He is always quick to respond to messages. I will never be as flexible or powerful as he is, but that is not the goal. I am at my best for my upcoming adventures and thank him for bringing me to this stage. It wasn't easy, but it met my needs in many ways. Thanks OAT.
Try any of our training programs risk-free for a week. Experience customized workouts and support that will get you ready for the backcountry.
PROGRAM STARTS EVERY MONDAY
Master the fundamental biomechanics to enhance your balance and refine every step on the trail. Build the essential stability needed to navigate varying terrains and sustain long treks.
Develop the strength to power through demanding backpacking trips. Strengthen your legs, core, and upper body to confidently carry your pack over any distance and terrain.
Enhance your reaction time and explosive power. Train to quickly adapt to uneven surfaces and obstacles, improving agility for dynamic movements required across unpredictable landscapes.
Increase your flexibility and protect your body with targeted routines. Improve your range of motion and reduce your risk of injury, ensuring you can continue exploring the backcountry more efficiently and safely.
Build endurance to sustain high energy levels during extended backpacking adventures. Our cardio program is designed to increase your stamina and respiratory efficiency, helping you thrive during long days on the trail.
The Backpacker’s Bootcamp systematically moves you through three unique phases of training.
Establish a solid foundation focusing on balance, coordination, and joint stability.
This initial phase focuses on exercises that enhance functional stability and core strength, essential for rugged terrains. Utilizing a 4/1/2 repetition tempo, each movement is tailored to boost muscle control and endurance. Engage in balance workouts, core-stabilizing routines, and joint-friendly exercises to prepare your body for more advanced training, ensuring you're resilient and ready for the trails.
Transitioning from stability, this phase intensifies focus on muscular strength and endurance. The 2/0/2 tempo (2 seconds eccentric/concentric with no pause) challenges your muscles more dynamically, promoting strength gains without compromising endurance. Exercises become more complex, involving multi-joint movements and increased resistance. This phase is critical for developing the muscular stamina required for extended backpacking trips and challenging hikes, equipping you with the endurance to go further.
In the final phase, maximize your power output essential for mastering steep and uneven terrains. Emphasizing variable tempos for explosive movements, this phase includes plyometrics, agility drills, and explosive movements to convert your strength and endurance into powerful, efficient motion. Experience a significant boost in your ability to navigate challenging trails with agility and speed, ensuring peak performance during adventurous hikes.
Enhance Your Training with the Right Equipment
In the Backpacker’s Bootcamp Program, having the right equipment can significantly boost your training results. While we’ve designed the program to be flexible, certain tools are essential for maximizing your experience. Below, you’ll find a list categorizing the required and optional equipment for the program.
Equipment Guide:
Optional Equipment:
Note: An asterisk (*) indicates required equipment. “Optional” denotes tools that can be integrated into the program for additional variety and challenge.*
Explore More: Want to learn more about these tools and how they can benefit your training? Visit our Home Gym Equipment Library for detailed information and tips on utilizing each piece of equipment effectively.
Maximizing Your Training Results: The Importance of Time Commitment
At Outdoor Adventure Training, we recognize that life is more than just training, and perfection isn’t the goal—progress is. To see significant and lasting results, consistency in your training routine is key. While we all have busy lives and unexpected commitments, aiming to meet your training goals at least 4-5 days a week can lead to remarkable improvements.
Here’s a breakdown of the estimated daily time requirements for each phase of the program:
Stabilization Phase (40-50 minutes daily): In this foundational phase, dedicating about 40 to 50 minutes each day will help you build the necessary stability and balance. This time frame is designed to be manageable yet effective, fitting into your daily routine without overwhelming you.
Strength Endurance Phase (45-60 minutes daily): As you progress to the Strength Endurance phase, the intensity and duration slightly increase, ranging from 45 to 60 minutes per session. This extra time allows for more comprehensive strength-building exercises, crucial for endurance on longer trails.
Power Phase (45-60+ minutes daily): The Power Phase, the most intensive part of your journey, requires a commitment of 45 to 60+ minutes daily. This phase focuses on maximizing your power and agility, and the additional time ensures you can thoroughly engage in high-intensity, power-focused workouts.
Field Time – Embracing Outdoor Training Hours:
For athletes focusing on big mountain endeavors and endurance sports, it’s crucial to understand the significant commitment to field time. Initially, this may involve dedicating 2-4 hours each weekend to sport-specific training. However, as you progress and edge closer to your objective, this commitment will gradually increase. Expect to extend your outdoor training to between 6-10 hours, ensuring you are thoroughly prepared for the challenges ahead. This increase in field time is vital for building the endurance, skill, and mental fortitude required for high-level mountain and endurance activities. It’s not just about training your body, but also acclimatizing it to the demands and duration of your chosen adventure.
Balancing Training with Life: We understand that some days will be busier than others, and it’s okay if you can’t hit the mark every single time. What matters most is your overall consistency and dedication. Even if you can’t dedicate the full recommended time on certain days, doing what you can is better than doing nothing at all. Remember, every step forward is a step towards your goals.
Stay committed, stay flexible, and watch as you transform into a stronger, more capable version of yourself. Let’s make every minute count!
Before embarking on any training program with Outdoor Adventure Training, we encourage our clients to consider the following:
Fitness Level Assessment: Evaluate your current fitness level. Our programs are designed with various levels of intensity and skill, and it’s crucial to choose one that aligns with your capabilities.
Time Commitment: Consider the time commitment required for the program. Consistency is key to achieving the desired results.
Equipment and Space Requirements: Some programs may require specific equipment or space considerations. Ensure you have access to the necessary resources.
Dietary Considerations: If you have dietary restrictions or are following a specific diet, take note of how this might impact your training and recovery.
Goal Alignment: Ensure that your personal fitness goals align with what the program offers. Each program is designed with specific outcomes in mind.
Risk Acknowledgement: Be aware that all physical training involves some risk of injury. By participating, you acknowledge and accept these risks.
Additional Recommendations:
By considering these factors, you can make a more informed decision about your participation in our programs and set the stage for a successful and enjoyable training experience!
Check out the OAT YouTube Channel for free hiking-specific training resources!
We understand that starting a training program is a commitment, and we want to ensure you get the most out of your experience with us. Before you register for one of our programs, we’re available for a consultation to learn more about you and answer any questions you may have.
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