Backpacker's Bootcamp

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.

Hike Stronger Hike Longer

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.

Benefits & Results

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 backcountry.

PROGRAM STARTS EVERY MONDAY

Monthly

$33/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
  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

Training Pillars

Program Progression

The Backpacker’s Bootcamp systematically moves you through three unique phases of training.

1

Stabilization

Establish a solid foundation focusing on balance, coordination, and joint stability.

Stabilization Phase

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.

2

Strength

Build and expand muscular endurance, perfect for long trails and steep ascents.

Strength Endurance

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.

 

3

Power

Unleash explosive strength and agility for steep climbs on unpredictable terrain.

Power Phase

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.

Program Requirements

Equipment

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:

  • Yoga Mat*: A must-have for ground exercises, providing comfort and stability.
  • Foam Roller (any density)*: Essential for muscle recovery and flexibility.
  • Lacrosse Ball (or other massage ball)*: A key tool for targeted muscle relief and myofascial release.
  • Supportive and Comfortable Hiking or Running Shoes*: Critical for safe and effective training, especially for outdoor activities.
  • Weights (dumbbells, kettlebells, or plates)*: Versatile tools for strength training, adaptable to various exercises.
  • Fitted 35-70L Backpack*: Simulates real hiking conditions, essential for building endurance.
  • 12-20″ Box, Bench, or Step*: A versatile piece for strength and power exercises.

Optional Equipment:

  • Bosu Ball: Great for balance and stability training.
  • Stability Ball: Enhances core workouts and adds variety to your routine.
  • TRX: Offers a range of bodyweight exercises for strength and flexibility.
  • Agility Ladder: Perfect for footwork and coordination.

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.

Time

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!

Additional Recommendations

Before embarking on any training program with Outdoor Adventure Training, we encourage our clients to consider the following:

  1. Medical Clearance: Please consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise regimen, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions, injuries, or concerns.       
  2. 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.

  3. Time Commitment: Consider the time commitment required for the program. Consistency is key to achieving the desired results.

  4. Equipment and Space Requirements: Some programs may require specific equipment or space considerations. Ensure you have access to the necessary resources.

  5. Dietary Considerations: If you have dietary restrictions or are following a specific diet, take note of how this might impact your training and recovery.

  6. Goal Alignment: Ensure that your personal fitness goals align with what the program offers. Each program is designed with specific outcomes in mind.

  7. Risk Acknowledgement: Be aware that all physical training involves some risk of injury. By participating, you acknowledge and accept these risks.

Additional Recommendations:

  • Stay hydrated and well-nourished to support your training.
  • Listen to your body and rest as needed. Recovery is as important as training.
  • Communicate any concerns or issues with our trainers promptly.
  • Enjoy the process and celebrate your progress along the way, no matter how small.

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!

Train Smarter With OAT Fit

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.