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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 61 reviews Marissa Bluestein2025.10.14.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Using the OAT app has been a great way to take the guesswork out of how to train properly for hiking and backpacking trips. There is a weekly schedule and easy to follow videos along with consistent support and availability from Mikey if you have any questions. I used the program to train for a Colorado trail thru hike and was able to finish the trail injury free and still feeling strong after 500 miles. I would highly recommend training with OAT if you want to increase your mobility, feel strong and be prepared for whatever adventure you have planned. Blake Bluestein2025.10.13.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The 6-month Summit Strength program from Outdoor Adventure Training was a complete game changer for me. I found the sport specific workouts to really increase my performance and endurance while climbing difficult objectives in the North Cascades. The app provides all the background and videos for each exercise and movement, making each workout easy to follow. Mikey is very helpful checking in throughout the program, answering questions, and offering different exercises or modifications. What I found very helpful were the mobility routines. I found that staying consistent with the mobility routines really helped me with some tightness and aches in my knee that would bother me after long hikes/climbs. I have recommended this program to friends and family, and they also have had great results! Highly recommend working with OAT for training any outdoor sport you do. Jay De La Sierra2025.10.11.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Simply stated, Outdoor Adventure Training (OAT) was and is a game changer to my backpacking training and aspirations. The APP is user friendly and the training is what and how the user decides to make it. There will be no time spent in anything else other than training and improving. My coach, MIKEY, was and is very attentive to my needs. MIKEY makes it a point to promptly answer and/or solve any interrogatives or future plans. MIKEY’S superb training knowledge and experience will become immediately obvious to the trainee. I began my OAT journey in April of ‘25. My goal: to complete the John Muir Trail (JMT) in 10 days. Foot problems kept me from sustaining a high level of training. MIKEY personally assisted me via phone, and messages, but most importantly, he was able to bring me back up when I was feeling down about my field training performance. MIKEY also assisted me with dealing with a pesky Achilles. That kind of attention is something I have never experienced from any trainer. I was ultimately able to train for (261 miles) and complete the JMT in 11 days (211 miles). A total of 472 backpacking miles since linking up with OAT in April. I will recommend OAT to friends and family. It is my intention, at almost 64 years old, to make OAT part of my outdoors and retirement lifestyle. Peace. Jorge Chitranshu Kumar Srivastava2025.10.10.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. As a hiker for 10 years and a gym-goer for 15 years, I honestly just accepted that knee pain and screaming glutes, hamstrings, and calves were a mandatory part of every multi-day hike I did (even the shorter 60 km ones). Seriously, I thought that's just how it was! Then I planned the massive Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB). Knowing my usual pain wouldn't cut it, I signed up for OAT's Trek Prep Program. What a game-changer! I loved the holistic approach: it's not just grinding away; it includes deep stretching, foam rolling, and serious strengthening, all from home workouts. The result? I finished the TMB totally pain-free! It was the first time I actually enjoyed every moment instead of just managing pain. The proof is in the pudding: two months later, I felt so confident that I tackled another tough 65 km hike in the Canadian Rockies with a heavy pack (33 lb)—and guess what? Zero issues again! This program didn't just train my body; it completely changed my whole hiking experience. If you love the outdoors but are tired of the pain, do yourself a huge favor and get this training. It's phenomenal! Marianne Yoder2025.10.05.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I used this program to get ready for a long hike. It was a wonderful program to follow. Lexi Stout2025.09.20.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Can’t say enough great things about Mikey and the OAT program/community! The progression of workouts builds from basic stability up to power, which I really appreciated after struggling with the “give it your all” mentality of other programs that didn’t seem to work for me. Such a well planned mix of form, mobility, cardio and strength that helped me confidently backpack through Olympic NP and the Enchantments out in Washington. Coming from flat Florida, I’m extremely proud to have crushed this trip and am already planning what’s next! Cynthia Brunet2025.09.20.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing app! Finally, a training program tailored for long-distance hiking. Thanks to this program, I had an incredible experience on the TMB. The exercises are well-suited for preparing for a long trek. I highly recommend this app. Landon Woodward2025.09.04.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. So great! I got so much attention from a remote trainer. I met my fitness goal and then some! Heather Cooper2025.08.24.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Outdoor Adventure Training (OAT) has been by far the most professional and comprehensive training program we have ever tried. Six months ago, at 51 & 55 years old, my husband and I had a big goal to hike/climb to the top of the Grand Teton, our first 14'er. We have always been active, but like most people, we had holes in our training, things we avoided or overlooked. The OAT Summit Strength program filled those gaps plus some. The program is specific, comprehensive, organized and enjoyable to do. Put in the work and you will be ready for your adventure with the guidance of Mikey Bell and his Outdoor Adventure Training program. Thank you and now onto the next adventure! Dave Kuster2025.07.29.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mikey has a great training program and the app is very easy to use. This helped me prepare for the biggest backpacking trip I’ve done so far. I performed great, and my confidence level has gone way up. He’s also extremely responsive for questions/guidance/etc. I’ve recommended OAT to multiple people on the trail and will continue to do so.
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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