Why Train With OAT?
At OAT, we’re dedicated to empowering hikers and backpackers to reach new heights in their outdoor adventures. 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.
Benefits & Results
- Science-Based Training for real results
- Build muscular strength & joint stability
- Reduce risk of injury on the Trail
- Boost endurance for longer days of hiking
- Enhance Mobility & Range of Motion
Program Structure
- 1:1 Trainer Support
- 4 Strength & Stability routines per week
- 2 Cardio Workouts Per Week
- 35-60 minute workouts
- Self-Paced & Flexible Schedule
- User-Friendly Mobile App





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.
7-Day Free Trial
Try any of our training programs risk-free for a week. Experience customized workouts and support that will get you ready for the slopes.
PROGRAM STARTS EVERY MONDAY
Monthly
- Training Program on OAT's App
- Daily Hiking-Specific Workouts
- 1:1 Messaging With Your Trainer
- Progress Tracking & Analytics
- Community Support & Challenges
- Flexible Month-to-Month Payments
3-month
- Training Program on OAT's App
- Daily Hiking-Specific Workouts
- 1:1 Messaging With Your Trainer
- Progress Tracking & Analytics
- Community Support & Challenges
- Full Access to OAT's Member Resources
6-month
- Training Program on OAT's App
- Daily Hiking-Specific Workouts
- 1:1 Messaging With Your Trainer
- Progress Tracking & Analytics
- Community Support & Challenges
- Exclusive In-Season Training Plan
Training Pillars
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Stabilization
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.
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Strength
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.
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Plyometrics
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.
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Mobility
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.
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Cardio
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.
Youtube Channel
Check out the OAT YouTube Channel for free hiking-specific training resources!
Have Questions?
We understand that starting a training program is a commitment you’re making, and we want to ensure that you get the most out of your experience with us. Ahead of registering for one of our programs, we’re available for a consultation where we can learn more about you and answer any questions you might have.
