Trad Gang

I can't take credit for this idea. I saw it someplace else but thought it was very informative/inspirational.

How are you preparing physically for next years hunting season?
If you are in great shape already and just "maintaining" or someone who has let things "slip" a little (okay, a lot!) this is  meant to help all of you/us keep on target.

I'll start by giving my age. At 53 it takes a lot more time and more thought to getting into shape than ever. (actually, it takes a lot of willpower, who am I kidding)
With this in mind I am hiking the foothills near home when I can for cardio and leg conditioning. I do upper body stuff using dumb bells- exercises to strengthen my small interior shoulder muscles that are the foundation of the joint and rotator cuffs are included.

One reason I  started this thread is to help others build off what ever conditioning - pointing around- we fought to gain for this recent hunting season. DON"T LET IT GO TO WASTE! Use it to leverage your conditioning for next year. Not  to mention the way better conditioning  benefits us in everything else we do.


Joshua

good post Joshua and a good idea.  I'll be 35 next summer and I run to stay in shape, but usuaully quit once hunting season arrives and start again after it's over.  It gets harder to pick up where I left off each year.  Point being it's really easy to get out of shape.  It's muche easier to just maintain.  Good luck.

I keep n pretty food shape all the time, but triathlons and getting ready for those are fun to get me ready to point my toes uphill for long backpack hunts.

I am going to AK this Aug with my dad and Ibsill be ready, making sure he is fit for 8 days on Kodiak solo is another story.

Hopefully this year I can stay healthy and race and hunting season is as fun as the last few have.

For me I was in stellar shape in the service but got a little soft after that.

Once I put a half ironman on the calendar almost 3 years ago  I have been in good shape since.  Having a race, even one you are only trying to finish not compete in is a great way to put a real goal on the calendar.  I always wanted to be in "good" shape like in the service, but that ain't worth much because is not tangible.

Stay safe y'all, and good luck!

40 here, I workout like a madman all the time. Full muscle groups, lots of cardio, and the ol' sloshpipe all year.

If you really worked at it, you could have a baby by then!   :bigsmyl:

Killdeer~pass the bonbons.

I don't know if I'd want to have a baby- my sister explained how it felt once and NO WAY!


Joshua, having plenty of respect for those able to have the experience.

I would rather work at that.

Just kidding. Found my way to the gym this morning, spent 45 minutes on the treadmill. Rabbit hunting tommorrow.

I just accept the limitations of being a big fat bastard  :D

I'm hunting with Rob  :)

If you have room for a third i will happily tag along!

Good discussion topic.
I'll be turning 61 in a month and staying in shape seems to get a little harder each year. Is it worth all the work and sacrifice to stay in shape. You bet.
I am in the gym 6 to 8 hours a week lifting weights and working out. It would be easier to be lazy and just take it easy, but if I did I that I wouldn't be able to have fun in the outdoors.
It is worth all the work, but it is a heck of a lot of work.
I was at the gym for an hour today and will be there again tomorrow. It is a small price to pay for the fun I get to have hunting and fishing.
Joe

I am 57 years and counting  :)  

I have an elliptical machine and use it 4 to 6 days a week. I am doing 20 to 25 minutes at setting 7 or 8 and 32 revolutions a min. I will be doing 45 to 50 minutes at the 8 and 10 settings with my pack and 40#s by the time Sept. Elk comes around. I also use rubber cords for the shoulders and free weights for upper body and squats. I work behind a desk so I have to keep it up or it's just too hard to start over again. I can't do as much as I used to do but I did pretty good keeping up with the youngsters at 6000 to 8000 feet in New Mexico and left a couple of them in the dust.
The place got my bull this year, if you look at the spot on Google Earth it was as far from the roads in any direction as I could get. There is no way I could have made it in there if I hadn't kept up my conditioning routine.
The hardest thing to get ready for is altitude. I try to be in the area I'm going to hunt as many days before the hunt as I can so my body can acclimate to altitude. I live at sea level and no matter how hard I work to get in shape it's still tough on the body up there.

I'm 43 at least for a couple more days and this topic has been on my mind alot lately. I hunt like a dog and I'm a Fat ^$$ I think alot about getting in shape and just can't seem to do it. I've been praying alot for the lord to give me the will power.

Earl you're right most days it's a fight to haul my fat A#%# to my prison (pet name for my work out hole). Now at 57 it's even tougher. The one piece of encouragement I can give you is on the other side. Once you are done you get a flood of endorphins that are great, relish that moment, breath, stretch enjoy what you did for yourself. Man it feels sooooooo good. You'll have energy you didn't know you had.

I will never be or have ever been an athlete but my exercise routine sure improves the quality of life and everything I do.

Start slow, work up to it. It's tough to start but you will be so glad you did. I also ride a bike to town a couple of days a week. Do things that are low or no impact.

I'm only a couple weeks from 54. I'm in construction but not as active as I once was. I have really noticed the difference in my legs the last 3 or 4 years in CO.  When I was 45 i didn't even work out before CO and went farther and longer than any of my buddies(who are all 5-7 yrs younger than me. I killed a mountain lion 2 days after my 49th birthday after 7 days of hunting. The best compliment I had was the outfitter telling me the guides said I did really good keeping up. The quides were 25 yr old locals. A few extra pounds now and I really have to work at it to stay in shape. The best way to get in shape is to stay in shape.

QuoteOriginally posted by Earl Jeff:
I'm 43 at least for a couple more days and this topic has been on my mind alot lately. I hunt like a dog and I'm a Fat ^$$ I think alot about getting in shape and just can't seem to do it. I've been praying alot for the lord to give me the will power.

Just do something fun for your workout(interesting, at least), and set goals. PM me, I do some highland games style workout---with a smattering of military "HooYah!".

For you guys working out---I can't stress nutrition and hydration enough. Be careful, and remember---the body likes WATER a lot more than it likes Gatorade.

QuoteOriginally posted by Earl Jeff:
...I think alot about getting in shape and just can't seem to do it....

Break it down into small parts. One less desert a day. Walk around the block. Next week walk farther, and more often.  Eat a little less.
Like saving money, working out is about making it so the effort is not drudgery -you allow yourself some predetermined "rewards".

Been doing well for a month walking and eating less? Hey! Treat yourself to an ice cream. But that doesn't mean two, or another one again tomorrow.

Start small.

Want to know the secret to Success?

A lifetime of sustained effort.

The small parts make up the Whole. In the end a lot of parts become a pretty big thing. And that is something worth being proud of.

I try to stay in good shape by using my own body weight. I do my daily chin ups, push ups and I was walking/ hiking 3 to 4 miles a day. I have kinda been slacking on the walking while deer season is in but I'm going to get back to it soon. I think one of the most important thing's is proper eating and eating small portion's about 6 times a day and drinking lot's of water! stay away from the pop and the little debbies!! JMO, Jason

QuoteOriginally posted by Earl Jeff:
I'm 43 at least for a couple more days and this topic has been on my mind alot lately. I hunt like a dog and I'm a Fat ^$$ I think alot about getting in shape and just can't seem to do it. I've been praying alot for the lord to give me the will power.

I was in decent shape before getting into running and triathlon, but it took a race deadline to get me to commit to a routine.  Seeing a "5 months to race date" on the calendar kept the iron in the fire.

I am not saying go out and qualify for the Ironman World Championships, but maybe pick a 5k in a few weeks or so and do that, then a 10k, and so on.  Keep challenging yourself in whatever works for you.

Some guys I know never ever run, I run more in a day than they will run in a lifetime, but they hike with a weighted pack pretty regularly and have "spit and grit" and stay on my heels on some of the nastiest hikes out there.  

I know that competition makes me stronger, and motivates me better.  If that is you, maybe get into a local running group and work towards some goals that you never thought possible.

Good luck guys, and Happy New Year!!!!!!

Great thought, JHG!  This fall marked the 3rd year I've been running and training specifically for hunting.  I'm 30lbs lighter and not looking back.  Fit to hunt is a journey, not a destination.  

I don't have a PHD, but if anyone has any fitness related questions, please let me know. I'd be more than happy to pass along what has helped me.  Go get 'em.

Yep...you old guys are spot on. I'm fixin to be 55....I start walking 3 miles a day with my 50 lb. back pack in June. That gives me 3-1/2 months to get conditioned for the walking part of my hunt. Base camp is 9200 ft. there ain't a thing I can do about the altitude, it's a killer for the first three days, then gets better.

Almost 55 and the last couple of years I have started cross county skiing during the winter.
I try to get out at least every other day and do 5 to 10 miles. This has helped me stay in shape during the winter.

Staying in shape is a lifestyle and like you said getting in shape is harder the older you get. It also means giving up or at the very least limiting what you eat and drink like beer (   :(   ), fried food and second helpings. Something else, it helps to mix up your work out every couple of days. Hiking with your heavy boots on and pack is a lot different then running, lifting weights at the gym isn't like chopping and stacking wood. Mix it up to keep all the body parts active but do try to do something active every day.

like many have already posted on this thread, 'staying in shape' is essential for hunting ... and for your overall well being.  

killinstuff's post above about sez it all.  you got to put in some effort to get positive results.  gettin' in good physical shape ain't gonna happen by itself.

you couch potatoes have been challenged!  get on out and move it - or lose it!     :saywhat:      :wavey:

When I started about 5 years ago I could only run about 100 yards. I am 48 years old the longest distence I have made it is 12 mile on 5 different days. the last 5 days 4 of them I have  run a total of 20 miles 5 miles each run. if I can do it others can to. I shoot my bow about every day. I keep track of how much I run on the calendar. when it is cold out is is harder to go but there is some close made they sell at walmart hole suit is about 15.00 air does not go through. they are for gogging. it only takes a few minutes. I cant even begain to tell you how much better you will fill. just do something you will settle in on what you like. for me it is running.

As 60 comes over the horizon, I have rededicated myself to make as many mountain hunts as I can in the time I have left.  That said, this year it's Moose and Caribou in Alaska.  Jason and I will be hitting the road soon walking miles each day and using our packs to build the weight up.

Got a universal Gym in the garage to work on weight training.

I got 60# of fat off last year and want to trim another 25 before September.

Gotta get after it though.

Mike

I get into shape year round through lots of scouting, shooting and exercise. I kinda fall off a little during deer season as most of my time is dedicated to family activities, work, sleep and hunting.
I pick up again in January with lots of hiking and beginning my exercise routines for the up coming year. The areas I hunt require long walks with a climber strapped to my back. Plus if I should get lucky, dragging out even a small deer at those distances can be killer.

Fortunately I actually like working out. I turned 66 a couple of weeks ago and I average four days a week in the gym. I do two days of upper body work and two days of lower body work. After each workout I do 30 minutes of hard cardio on a recumbent bike or the stair climber. On the cardio, in particular, I try each week to increase the intensity of the workout because you can live longer with a strong heart than you can with big biceps. I do it so that I can enjoy and can continue to do the things I like to do, hunting being one of the biggest motivators. In the long run I don't want to happen to me what happened to my mom if I reach the age she did. She died at 87 but when she got aches and pains she stopped doing whatever made her hurt but never tried to get it better. Long story short, she got pretty fragile and weak and the pain did not go away. I try to look at pain as a warning my body is giving me to do things harder or differently. It is not a sign to stop. When I go I hope they have to look for my body in a treestand of find me in my kayak with a large stripper pulling me around Great Bay.

Wingnut has it right...you need to set goals....plan the work...then work the plan.

Good Lord, I appreciate the zeal, but cannot we at least get through Boxing Day and New Years first?

A large stripper? Bill, you rascal!!   :biglaugh:
Killdeer

Great post. I,ve been telling myself that this year I,m gonna commit to getting in better shape.

Two years ago I was in a serious car wreck breaking both feet with a shattered heal that required surgery. Since then it's been a slow recovery and I've lost alot of motivation for pushing  myself. Not anymore. I've gotta do it. As Bill said, other aches and pains have crept in and I gotta get back to that level I had before all of this. This thread just gives me more motivation. Thanks everyone.

stump shooting here in the mountains, climb shoot, climb and shoot. Cutting wood for the water stove. This will get it started if the weather permits. Right now, we are covered in ice.

Great thread  :thumbsup:  

There is nothing easy about it the older we get    I'm 47 and let my self go also then finally made a commitment and joined a gym and changed my bad eating habits. I dropped 30 pounds and started running then I had a bad accident at work 2 years ago destroying a shoulder and a hip/leg.

Several surgeries and some healing time and I'm back at it. Marshall I hear ya bud but I'm committed and won't stop till I meet my goal weight. I love to hunt out west and that is alot of motivation right there for me.

"Food is fuel" So watch what you eat do some exercise of some kind and don't get in a hurry.

Tracy

At 63, I've tried to stay in good shape with exercize and proper eating.
But I couln't help but smile as I crawled into the tent blind this morning rather than climb up to the tree stand five yards away in the 23 degee air.
I may be getting a little old.
Bill

Dang Bill and Killdeer!!  I didn't need that in my head today as I head out deer hunting.

Just how large a stripper are we talking?

LOL

Mike

I'll be 58 in June, about 7 seven years ago I had some issues with blood pressure and 4 years ago I found out I have a artery that is blocked. I stopped doing martial arts and started just going to the gym. I retired 2 years ago, I now go to the gym mon-fri,minimum 30 min on treadmill or elliptical and some light wieghts to help with my archery activities. I also went back to martial arts with a few classes and help to teach the kids classes{4-10 year olds}.I also got told in August that I now have type 2  diebetes. You have to do whatever you have to do to keep doing the things you like. I really think that inspite of my health issues I'm in the best shape of my life because I got out and made it happen. It don't matter what you do, just do something that will improve your health.I also kayak, fish, ride bike, Ride motorcycles, woodcarve and just try to keep active.I have noticed that when I hunt now I'm not out of breath and looking for a spot to rest as often....it must be working!!

Stump shooting; it generally encompasses a mile or more up and down the ridges.  I had a friend who lifted weights and ended up missing a whole year to a torn muscle.  I shoot the bow to keep in bow shooting shape.  That makes perfect sense to me.

I don't care for Bon Bons, Killdeer, but I can play behind Reeses Peanut Butter Cups real easily 8^).

Thanks for this thread. I have been feeling more overweight and lazy lately. I can't run anymore cause after years of long distance running my knees are shot. I started back on my routine last night because of you guys. Elliptical machine, wieghts and bands to start with, along with regular hiking and shooting again. I always suffer during hunting season of not shooting and being active enough.
Killie, thanks, I was hoping I wasn't the only one to see "large stripper"

An 18 year old girlfriend might help you old guys.  :readit:    :readit:  
My health may go way down hill fast!

Reality of good physical health is not something that should be feast or famine. Good physical health should be something maintained. I started running in the evenings a few years ago. I made it fun by picking different country backroads to jog on. Then, before I knew it I found that I actually craved running. It's when I don't exercise that I feel bad. I know it's not so easy for some folks but exercise can be fun once you start seeing and feeling results. CK-42 yrs old yesterday.  :p

Another thought.. Maybe a motivational daily workout thread would help keep folks motivated. Maybe daily posting of your workout, weight loss, etc., may help one guy/gal keep the next motivated. I guarantee you'll be proud of yourself if you can stay with a program for 9 months. You'll also see and feel results that will make you feel good all over. I'll participate! I've got many injuries to overcome in the next 9 months.   :thumbsup:

A great device for those with bad knees is a treadmill.

The activity can be made interesting if you have a good book or something good to listen to. Like an archery tape.

What I like about a treadmill is:

1) low impact

2) gets the circulation going in those abused joints and helps them be the best they can be, even if thats not what they used to be.

3) you can adjust speed and incline for slowly building up  strength and stamina in your legs and heart

4) you'd be surprised how much a tread can get your heart rate up. Its doesn't take a lot of speed or incline and that is key when you are just getting back into it or have knee issues.

J-

When using a tread mill be sure to use GOOD shoes.
I was using slippers and ended up with a inflamed tendon in the foot and also found a spur.

On the subject of Good shoes for walking , any recommendations?
As I say each year this is the year to get my butt motivated after a season of dragging myself around. I started reading Fitness Made Simple.
Got a few good suggestions from it so far.
Any other recommended books on fitness out there?
Tim
47yrs
Deathmaster

I'll be 55 in June, and I've been fighting with getting into and staying in shape since I was 45.

In my 20's I was a mess, years of being a rock musician and abuse to my body took its toll on me.
At 28 I made a commitment to change, quit the drugs and drinking and dedicated myself to getting back in shape. Hit the gym hard and by 31 was in the best shape of my life. Could run up mountains and not be winded, could climb trees like a squirrel, and use to pack whole deer out on my shoulders.

Then I got married...... 15 years later found myself a complete mess again. To busy raising kids and working, neglected myself. Had to start over again..... not an easy feat this time.

Back to the gym, hurt all over. But stuck with it.
2 years later, still overweight, but stronger was told I had liver and cholesterol problems. Went on a diet, lost 67 pounds in a year and felt like a new person. Have since been using the P90X workout DVD's and feel like I did in my 30's again.
It's amazing how this little workout mixes things up and works your whole body like nothing I've ever done. It's an extremely good program and I'd recommend it to everyone. You don't have to do as many reps as the guy on the DVD, just do what you can and stick with it. Before long you'll be doing what they do on the DVD and will be amazed at the difference it makes in your overall strength and well being.

Best thing I've ever done for my hunting, next to dedicating myself to bow only.

  :thumbsup:    :thumbsup:    :archer:

Hal

Happy Birthday Curtis! I hope your healing well from your accident.

A workout thread would be great and I thought about starting one many times when I was laid up and healing from my injury's.

I'm in also, If we can keep it trad hunting related and motivate each other for upcoming hunts and bow seasons. Maybe when can get the ok from a couple of the moderators as I no a few of them work out also.  :goldtooth:  

Tracy

I just turned 50 myself, right now my son and I are traipsing around hunting rabbits on the weekends and days off, weekdays I go to the Y and lift a little and do 20-30 min. on the elliptical at least 3 times a week, summers I ride my bike. I'm always ready for the riggers of hunting, I work for it and think about it all year.

OK several things standing out......
1) Hunting isn't done by a long shot, most areas of the US have a month or two of small game hunting yet, if your not taking advantage your loosing a "workout" and training opportunity! Nothing preps you for hunting like hunting!

2) I get the distinct impression many of you only go afield when your hunting!?! 90% of good hunts takes place in the off season, consistent observation of game animals there habits and habitat is essential to being a good steward of our resources. In short scouting is 90% of the game and great exercise.

3) Stop making excuses! I don't buy it for a second if your too fat, old, busy whatever it's your own fault! I've broken my back twice and was told I'd never walk without a cane again in august of 2000. Being a couch potato is not a valid excuse. With all do respect to the christian tradgangers statements like "I've been praying for the will power" drive me nuts! Fact is he/she probably has given you a thousand reasons to get in shape including the drive to hunt. Instead of praying try doing! Hard, painful and often humiliating work is what got me back in the field.

4) You guys lead a MUCH easier life than I ever have! Between hauling firewood, raising a 3 year old and maintaining a household I seldom need to put in any training time. Looking at the lives of others It dose seem to me that allot of "gym time" is only needed because folks are to lazy in there regular life. Stairs not the elevator, don't use the closest parking spot, walk to your hunting pards house.....it's less than a mile! TURN OFF THE TV AND SPEND SOME TIME OUTSIDE! PLAY WITH YOUR KID!

5)Traditional bow hunting is a lifestyle not a 1 month a year hobby, live that life instead of talking about it. Spend time afield every week, scouting, observing and learning about the game you chase. You'll be a better hunter and "get in shape" without noticing your working out. Either that or take up gulf.

Good points made Rick P. I might add to my previous post, I have had 9 (I thought 11...but as usual my wife of 32 years set me straight) knee surgeries. Three were total reconstructions, one a bacterial infection, and, one was an extensive allograft/replacement (dead guy parts, and titanium). The rest were simple ligament/cartilage repairs. Point being...If you, as Rob said get off the couch, the results start right then. If you don't do anything but WALK...that is an excellent beginning.

QuoteOriginally posted by Rick P:
...4) You guys lead a MUCH easier life than I ever have! Between hauling firewood, raising a 3 year old and maintaining a household I seldom need to put in any training time. ... TURN OFF THE TV AND SPEND SOME TIME OUTSIDE! PLAY WITH YOUR KID!

I heat with wood. And I don't pay someone else to cut, split or haul it. I don't have a TV. And  I play with the kids all the time. So don't be so sure we all have it easier than you do.
Even doing all that stuff (and more) does not translate into being able to climb a  slope @ 8500' with a pack chasing an elk. It requires some "GYM TIME".  Some of us can't be in the woods all the time.  So we steal an hour here and there for a workout.

If its at the gym that gets it done, thats a good thing.

Joshua

Granted

Alpine hunts are a different story.....they do require more training. But the best training for that hunt would be on that mountain not a gym.

Wait a minute where the heck is tree line in Colorado?

When did elk stay below tree line anyway?

Around 10,000

jhg

Well 8,500 feet would put you in habitat on the upper edge of what Dall Sheep can tolerate and firmly in mountian goat teritory here in Alaska. Kinda beggs the question "where is colorado's treeline" dont you think? I never said elk don't go above tree line, never hunted Elk so I wouldn't know.

QuoteOriginally posted by cacciatore:
Around 10,000

That's what I gathered from a quick Internet search....thanks for the help.

Congrats Bawana  :knothead:  Bad form dude!

The only thing Rick said there that made any since was you do need to stay active no matter were you live and what you do for a living.

You don't need a gym member ship or a bunch of fancy equipment just do some push ups or sit ups maybe some pull ups a few times a week and you will slowly get better and better.Remember stamina directly effects your desire and it gets better also.

I like to mix it up with running,walking, hill climbing with a pack(Yes we have hills in eastern Kansas)Riding a mountain bike which I use for hunting and some wieght lifting.

I applaud all of you for wanting to better your selves and there physical well being and I look forward to hearing how everybody accomplishes it.

Tracy

Bad form? Explain please?

I don't want to be argumentive but I do have alot of experience in keeping in shape for hunting season.I'm a military veteran and have alot of experience. If anyone has actual experience that disagrees with this I would like to hear it. First off the Gym is the worst place that you can go to work out for hunting. Machines and weight lifting are a waist of time if your goal is for hunting shape.Gym machines work the same motion over and over. Weight lifting does the same thing and builds bulk.Do a check on Navy Seal training. Your heart does not Know the difference between muscle and fat. In fact muscle weighs more than fat. You should work the muscles that you use in hunting. I will be 50 years old in June 2010 and I have not hunted with anyone that can keep my pace. I work out to hunting conditions. If anyone is interested in my workout procedure I would be very happy to share with you. The worst fantasy of good shape is the "Treadmill". PM me and I will share a hunting workout based on my military experience.

QuoteOriginally posted by Adirondackman:
I don't want to be argumentive but I do have alot of experience in keeping in shape for hunting season.I'm a military veteran and have alot of experience. If anyone has actual experience that disagrees with this I would like to hear it. First off the Gym is the worst place that you can go to work out for hunting. Machines and weight lifting are a waist of time if your goal is for hunting shape.Gym machines work the same motion over and over. Weight lifting does the same thing and builds bulk.Do a check on Navy Seal training. Your heart does not Know the difference between muscle and fat. In fact muscle weighs more than fat. You should work the muscles that you use in hunting. I will be 50 years old in June 2010 and I have not hunted with anyone that can keep my pace. I work out to hunting conditions. If anyone is interested in my workout procedure I would be very happy to share with you. The worst fantasy of good shape is the "Treadmill". PM me and I will share a hunting workout based on my military experience.

Not at all argumentative you made a statement of fact as you see it and your spot on!

Cloudcroft New Mexico is over 9000 feet with lots of elk.

I had my 40th birthday July 6th

July 13th I awoke to severe vertigo that was a struggle for weeks.

mid-November I hurt my knee playing basketball (my good knee, the other was scoped a year ago)

I've made up my mind, with life as short as it is, to go back west on a solo hunt this fall. Maybe Colorado, maybe NM, maybe ID .... I haven't chose where or if it'll be elk or muley but I'm going like I did when I was 22 and did it.

I've got about 9 months to lost 15 pounds and get in shape physically and to strengthen my knee etc. I look forward to the challenge.

I hunted the rockies with the MO Sherpa last elk season and we hunted upto 12 000 ft most days. I'm 34 and like to keep in the best shape life, work and my family will allow me to be in.

I stay in shape by hitting the rowing machine, running, lifting weights and also do a lot of pull ups and push ups for a more natural strength.

IMHO...life is way to short to be unfit and unhealthy.

As the saying goes... "Life is no dress rehersal"


ak.

QuoteOriginally posted by coaster500:
Cloudcroft New Mexico is over 9000 feet with lots of elk.

OK one more time I asked about treeline because I was stunned anything worth hunting was found at 8,500 feet, NOT because I doubted jhg!

At 8,500 feet here in Alaska you have snow, rock, maybe a lichen or two and if your lucky in coastal areas you might find a mountain goat. You would not however find anything remotely like an Elk!

Starting to feel you have to candy coat to the highest PC standard any opinion you want to post on tradgang and curiosity is apparently expressly forbidden.  :rolleyes:

hiking as often as possible. cycling to and from work,, kayaking.

Rick, didn't mean to offend just thought it might interest you, I mean your curiosity?

Sorry Brother   ;)

I do Crossfit, one of the most challenging programs I have ever done. Best shape of my life at 38 years old!

I sure hope I will be !  October thru May or so I work hard on an eliptical 3-6 times a week, for cardio and just to burn calories (~1,000 caloreis a shot).  Used to do a lot of power lifting stuff, but anymore if I lift weights I do a circuit training routine.  Spring comes and I do a lot of hikes in the mountains, early on with my widow for black bears, then in the summer just for exercise, scouting, and just to see whats on the other side ! Am probably in the best cardio shape of my life.

QuoteOriginally posted by Adirondackman:
... If anyone has actual experience that disagrees with this I would like to hear it. First off the Gym is the worst place that you can go to work out for hunting. Machines and weight lifting are a waist of time if your goal is for hunting shape...

I think we all agree more than disagree....

but,
Take into account not everyone here is in the same shape we are. I agree that the gym is not the best place to train for hunting, but man does have the capacity for higher learning. I don't train in one but thats beside the point. I play hockey and it goes a LONG way toward doing most of what is needed to put me in top shape for the mountains and hunting. Likewise, the gym is not a static environment where the only thing people do is get on a machine or lift weights the old fashioned way. We do plyometrics, speed training and lactate tolerance training and use weight training to build strength rather than  for hypertrophy.  Especially out here in Colorado-so many full time athiletes train here and the knowlege rubs off. The gym can be a pretty tip of the arrow kind of place.

A lot of folks can't, due to schedules or other reasons, find another place to train. If thats the choice they have between doing nothing and something I think something is always better. I think its better to support that than condemn it on a wholesale bases. And as you mention, its how you train your body that counts. I don't think where you train makes one bit of difference.
Any training regime can be applied almost anyplace with some thought.

J-

QuoteOriginally posted by Adirondackman:
I don't want to be argumentive but I do have alot of experience in keeping in shape for hunting season.I'm a military veteran and have alot of experience. If anyone has actual experience that disagrees with this I would like to hear it. First off the Gym is the worst place that you can go to work out for hunting. Machines and weight lifting are a waist of time if your goal is for hunting shape.Gym machines work the same motion over and over. Weight lifting does the same thing and builds bulk.Do a check on Navy Seal training. Your heart does not Know the difference between muscle and fat. In fact muscle weighs more than fat. You should work the muscles that you use in hunting. I will be 50 years old in June 2010 and I have not hunted with anyone that can keep my pace. I work out to hunting conditions. If anyone is interested in my workout procedure I would be very happy to share with you. The worst fantasy of good shape is the "Treadmill". PM me and I will share a hunting workout based on my military experience.

The team guys, aka Navy SEALs are gym rats and running fools, they do both.

If everyone did something everyday, or every other day that made them stronger, ie challenged them physically, we would all make Lance Armstrong look like a wimp.

Everyone, everywhere, in every state would be more successful if they were in better shape.  It is not just those of us that hunt with our pack on our backs for a week plus in wilderness areas, but also those hunting the back 40.

One of the biggest strengths "better shape" gives you is not just the ability to go farther, faster, stronger, but also to recover quicker.

My dad is on the 60's side of his 50's and is tough as nails.  He doesn't workout much but is tough as all get out, however after a few hard days he is spent.  Being able to "do it" is only good if you can repeatedly "do it", aka endurance.  Being able to do the same thing on day 10 that you do on day 1 is the biggest difference.

Most folks I know that are in horrible shape can get to the top of just about any mountain on the first day of the hunt, but what about the last...

Stay safe, consult your physician if you have questions, and have fun most of all.

My boys are great pack weights, and also they love to be drug around in a bike trailer or jogging stroller as daddy tries to get "ripped".

Zeke

I am a bigger than average guy for sure,I have always been big. So I have to stay on top of it. But what I do is to stay as active as I can. I really do not like gyms or machines and would rather do something else.
I bike to work when possible
I hike with a load on
I play at 10,000 ft alot(at least once a week)
I park at the back of parking lots
I fish miles of rivers with vengance,back pack in to remote lakes to fish.
I just do things that take some effort,and push it as hard as I can. I am lucky to live where I do it gives me an opportunity to be in the outdoors alot. Not that I don't have room for improvement but between my hunting,fishing hiking,biking,back country skiing ect... I always suprise the ones that try to keep up each fall.

I don't think the gym is the worst place you can work out for hunting.
In fact if it is the only place you can work out, then it is the best place you can go.

Any exercise is better than no exercise.
Circuit machines are good for keeping large muscle groups toned and keeping joints moving. I think this in itself is a big factor in preventing injuries and keeping muscles from atrophying.

A lot of you talk about hiking in the higher altitudes in the off season. Well I live at the highest altitude on the east coast of Florida. My little piece of paradise sits at a breath taking 67' above sea level!!!!
If not for adjustable incline treadmills and stair steps there would be no place that I could train that isn't level ground.

My next door neighbor is a world class triathlete and (SHE) does weight training, and swimming at the same gym which I attend. Runs and bikes the road along river where we live.
I would be willing to bet this little 5' 2" cutie could leave most of us in her wake in any endurance type of hunting situation.

The main objective of a hunting exercise program IMO is to keep muscles toned, joints flexible, and build endurance. Combine this with a good diet to keep body fat levels low, and that's all you need to maintain a healthy lifestyle and keep your hunting experience pleasurable.

It doesn't take heavy weights, body weight training is all that is needed to maintain a better level of fitness than 98% of the people in this country are presently in. Look around the next time your out say at the local WalMart. The United States at this time, has got to be the most overweight society which has ever existed in history. I blame it on High Fructose Corn Syrup and the failure of physical education programs in the schools. (I never see kids running around the track these days at schools, their always walking! Whats up with this?)

I'm getting off subject so I'm going to stop. But like I said any exercise is better than none, so don't tell someone what their doing is bad, if at least their doing something!

bawana bowman, I agree 100% and live at sea level...What are pull ups, push ups, walking up hills, running if not repetition, they may be better? but,if a man gets up in the dark, works 8 to 12 hours a day and can get himself to the gym before or after he is a whole lot better off than doing nothing.

Anything you do to increase the blood pumping ability to feed and strengthen your muscles, tendons and joints is going to translate into a better hunt and you are less likely to be injured or have a heart attack. You will also have more fun in the process. I will not say any mans way of exercising is a waste of time, if you can get in mountains and hike great, if running is your thing great, if the gym great but like Nike says "Just do it"....

Excuse me gents my Elliptical (one of those bad machines) waits and I'm late starting this morning

 ;)

Have you started yet?

C'mon, you can do it! You'll be glad you did!


Joshua

It is so true that it is easier to stay in shape rather than beat yourself into shape.  It has to become part of your life, not just something you do if you draw an elk tag.  

Part of my job is doing stress tests on people, so I am constantly being reminded of how out-of- shape people can be in.  Elderly people who just walk several times a week are often in better shape than the 55 year-old who has a sedentary job and lifestyle.

NEW YEARS. Time is ticing away. Lets get going so we are ready for the rest of our lives.

YOU have time.
25 push ups jump rope 50 times 25 push ups
Park farther away
Use the steps
100 crunches befor you sit down to tv
EAT HEALTHY.(My problem)
Motivator

Did my work out this morning and getting ready to go for a run. It has started to snow again and we already have a foot on the ground from last week  :goldtooth:  Got to stay busy.

Tracy

Any man who says the gym is a bad place to workout is sadly mistaken. My thought is this---the gym has the necessary equipment needed for a complete body workout, all right there in a nice, neat spot. One can do a cycle of weights and cardio there without even leaving the room(keeping the heart rate up). The outdoors are a GREAT place to get your exercise, but the gym is agreat place to use if you are wanting to focus on one or two troublesome areas.

I use both---whenever I have the time to do both.

As long as round is a shape, I'm in...lol I do expect to do better this coming year assuming that the back surgery holds up like it appears it will.
God bless,Mudd

I find the opinions on this thread intresting and helpful. One that bothers me a bit is the one that Adironackman makes about the Gym being a waste of time.I will agree that if you want to walk or hunt in the woods the best way to get ready for that is to walk and hunt in the woods. but to say gym time is not helpful is wrong. Its helped me alot with my health issues.Any physical activtivity is good and benefits the person doing it.

I agree Ron, The gym has it's place. Earlier in this thread I said you don't have to go to the gym to get in shape there's allot you can do at home. Gym member ships are expensive but worth it if you are serious about getting in shape.

While I was injured and recovering several different machines helped me tremendously. I use the free weights to but keep it light, My shoulder has seven pins and anchors in it now and just doesn't work like it use to but I can still pull a bow so I can deal with it. The elliptical machines were great for my hip when I couldn't run or barely walk and I recommend them for anybody with bad knees and ankles also.

Its also the atmosphere in a gym that helps motivate you some times. You see all the other people working out and some are worse off than you but there in there day after day and you think, "If they can do it so can I"  :)  

Next thing you no it's been a month than 2 months and you have started to see your body change in the mirror. You start to notice that set of stairs at work that used to wind you after climbing doesn't anymore.   :saywhat:  Then the scale you weigh on starts to go the right direction and you say hey this is kind of fun.

Good luck everybody so get out there and shed hunt, pull down your stands and do some scouting for next season that's the best kind of exercise right there and take your kids too if you can, Mine are all grown up and I miss it.

Tracy

I am rowing, free weights, walking, snow shoeing and some stump shooting to try and keep any kind of fitness level for the spring. The gym is mandatory, its -25-30 degrees outside. 48 years old, not that easy getting back into shape if you let it ride.
Terry

As a former athlete (and the father of a former college football player and two former college basketball players), it is my opinion that the gym can be an important part of a full program of fitness and strength. As said earlier on this thread -- the gym is where the equipment is, all in one place.

Weight lifting and other resistance training have changed a lot in the last few decades. Rapid sets keep the heart rate elevated build strength, endurance, and cardio-vascular fitness all at the same time. Complex resistance motions dominate training now and were  unknown a few decades ago. And, yes, it is possible to get very strong without a gym, but strength does take resistance, hard work, and lots of reps no matter what method you use. A barbell, a hammer-strength machine, a log, or your own body weight can all serve the same purpose, but you do have to lift it to get the benefit.

Strength improvements made at the gym need to be put to use and translated into skilled motion. That is where getting into an environment of application (hunting woods, baseball field, boxing ring, etc.) and using the improved strength and fitness comes into play. Skill and strength are different training areas.

Every professional and college sports program has a weight-room routine. They do that for two reasons: first, because they have found there are limits to what can be efficiently done with body-weight exercises alone; second, because it pays off in measurable results -- measurable results: times and scores, not opinions.

Perhaps we can think of it this way: more strength and endurance means having more physical talent. Developing the talent into an applied skill is the next step in the process and both steps are necessary for me to be at my best (I am not a "natural" in either area).

My two cents worth and my humble opinion.
Joe

Folks! Keep it up if you started or already have a routine!

If you have yet to begin a program now is a good time to plan one and get it started! Little pieces lead to success.

C'mon now, you'll thank yourself later... we are all pulling for ya!


Joshua

Great topic and i just pray i can put these dang smokes down. I workout on a regular basis and then light up when i get through, how insane is that.

The biggest buck i killed this year came in and i had to drop my cig in my water bottle before i could shoot.

I was addicted to pain pills for 15yrs and finally kicked that habit or should i say sickness, these cigs are turning out to be harder to kick than the pills.

Any advice would sure be appreciated.

Joe, find a local group or create some sort of support system amoung friends/family so you don't have to "go it alone". Its been proven someplace that quitting is very difficult without others
. We all lean on our friends, out families and others.

Quitting smoking is no different.

Post your progress here. We'll pat you on the back and/or kick you in the butt, depending...


Joshua

I couldnt agree with you more Joshua, i have a huge support group im envolved with concerning my drug addiction.

Im going to have a house full tonight watching the Alabama game.

And yea i do need a kick in the butt on a regular basis.

GET OUT!

Are we walking yet? Maybe with the pack on? Doing a few push-ups? Stretches?


Make the change, one piece at a time.

Hitting the gym 3-4 days a week. Lifting and cardio. I am going to start hiking in a few months when the weather gets better. Not so wet out.

ttt


Added the rowing machne to the end of my weight routine.  Building stamina, cardio and leg strength.

J-

I have been having a hard time getting to the gym this week. My schedule at work is weird. I work 1 on one of 2 on type schedule and they are nights and 12 hour shifts. These are my excuses.LOL. I am going to the gym on my next day off (sunday). Everyone keep training hard.

Greg

When the weathers bad and the wife and I don't want to get out we just work out at home while watching TV. We have some dumbbells we picked up cheap and a workout ball that we picked up at Walmart for ten bucks.

We do some kind of exercise on every commercial, Sit ups,push ups,leg lifts,jumping jacks,weights, tons of different things you can do. We have a treadmeal too for when the weathers bad outside. You would be surprised how much you can get done and still watch your favorite shows and get in shape at the same time  :D  

When the weather gets better jump on the bike or go for a walk maybe a run. Spring is right around the corner.

Tracy

I started something new this year, ROM exercise machine. I was skeptical at first, and I still don't know if it will live up to the hype, but I figure, in addition to my usual conditioning, it can't hurt.

TTT

Well I am feeling human again after having the flu this week. My temperature is down and feeling good. I am working tomorrow and back to the gym on Monday.

Greg

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v232/stickbow98/FatCat.jpg)

I just HAD to post that!! Sorry, Guys!       :thumbsup:      
>>--Ron--<>

Ok, I'm 44 yr. Now and I have a pacemaker / defibrillator I also have a mechanical Heart valve. so lots of work out I can't do.

The Wife and I have been doing walks  (when weather lest Us) every night with the dogs. That's about it for now.

57 years old - 6am

I'm headed down to my home gym for 30 minutes of cardio and 30 minutes of lifting -3 days a week

Not all that much fun - but worth the effort when spending a day on the trout stream or still hunting white tail!

><>
Glenn

I need to stack wood . That is a good workout and makes me smile when I see the end results.

Parking farther away and keeping food spending journal.

Lets keep it up.

Tim

One last bump to top and then I'll let this die... (sniff)

For those working out let us know how its going.

Joshua

No reason to let it die lets keep it going and hopefully motivate someone else.  :D  I hope everyone else is staying with it.

Running on treadmill 3 times a week because of the crappy weather, Come on spring  :bigsmyl:  and hitting the weights 3 times also. As soon as it drys up some I will be on the Mountain bike alot too.

We ran a under-ground 5k race in January another 5k this month and have another March 6th. I just ordered my first ever new bow and will be picking up the pace soon getting ready for the mountains this fall.  :D  

Tracy

I run 3 to five miles a few days a week and when it warms up those miles will move to the mountains.

ttt

In case there are any older archers  working out to stay in hunting shape  here is my injury stops workout report and some thoughts on aging and the  value of patience.

Somehow a mild twinge in the elbow has bloomed into full on tendonitus. If you have not had the pleasure rest assured it cramps your style.
The big difference I have noticed about aging is an injury like this 5yrs ago would have remained mild or not even happened. As it stands now its taken 4 weeks for it to begin to recover and I am finding this typical of injuries in middle age- they take a lot longer and a lot more care for recovery.

I am in great shape and stay active. But injury is a part of being older. Injurys seem to just show up, often without warning and in ways that you have never experienced. Not a big deal, but to ignore them is to risk destroying your foundation.

I read about workouts that are clearly designed and perfromed by  younger hunters. Simply pushing yourself does not always work as you get older. Push you must, but with an eye on the details and an acute awareness of recovery time.

I have noticed that my ability to push myself now exceeds my bodys ability to recover. Now workouts and the goals I have physically must be carefully balanced against time to recover. In the end it simply takes longer to achieve a certain level of fitness.

Now, it is a question of persistence.

It becomes a dance between what you want and what you can realistically expect. In my case I wanted to be in as good a shape as the very best in my age group. 10 years ago that would have meant 4-6 months training. Today it has meant 2 YEARS.  Two years to reach a level of fitness that 10 years ago I could have reached in 6 months or less. But I don't let that fact flag my love of life or staying fit. There are many good reasons to be the best body you can be.
Sustained effort requires a certain amount of value placed upon the goal. For me, hunting elk and running with my kids has kept me at it. My family takes pride in what I am physically in that I can do lots of things with them that many older men like me can't do anymore. I can share more with them that includes active stuff. And no, its not all they think of when they think of me. But it is  cool to them that Uncle Joshua or "Big Daddy" can still "walk the line".

Find your own motivation. Make it personal.

Rock on!

Joshua

I'll be in the best shape of my life when I get to CO in Sept.

I'm 45

I try to power eat atleast 3times aweek... shoot my bow and dream of going elk hunting in the Rockies. Though I've completely given up on the dream now.

Mid December I turned a page. After getting lit up by my Doc for mmy cholesterol and poor diet, and a slap in the face with a heapin dose of reality, I made some changes. I'm 5'8" and had swelled up to 210 lbs, just squeezing in to a pair of 36" waist pants. Considering at one time I wore 32's and was under 160, it was time to get to work. My program is simple, takes a little discipline, and thus far involved no working out, although I am starting a program for that this week which I'll explain.

As for diet, I started with the South Beach diet. Lean meats, veggies, fruits and good carbs. The first 2 weeks is more limited, but I lost 15# in that time. I have totally eliminated any white flour, enriched flour, sugar, white rice and processed food of any kind from my diet. If I need flour for thickening sauces etc, whole wheat flour only. I can eat carbs, but I limit them and watch the fiber content. More fiber-good. very rarely do I eat bread. No more than 1 slice. I use whole grain flour tortillas for sandwiches instead.

I used to be a junk food/sweets junkie. I no long have any cravings for them, and really no interest. I eat 3-4 pieces of fruit a day, usually apples, pears and bananas. grilled venison, chicken, pork, beef,baked fish etc. Eggs 3-5 times a week for breakfast.
No vegetable oil, canola oil or any trans fat. Olive oil or coconut oil. Healthy poly and mono unsaturated fats.

I'm slowly taking off wieght, and am currently down 30 lbs. I picked up 3 10# wieght plates, and let me tell you, holding 30# of iron in my hands and realizing that used to be FAT on me was humbling. And motivating.

AS for workouts. I hate lifting weights, and not really a fan of working out. Looking back, I was in the best shape of my life while in the military. Never lifted weights. Body weight resistance only- Calisthetics. PT. The old fashioned way.

So this week I'm back in boot camp, sort of. Except I dont have some creaming idiot spitting on me and yelling at me.

I ordered Combat Conditioning by Matt Furey. Excellent workout with just your own body weight. Also doing the Marine Corp daily 7, plus a few others that I remember.

With that, I do interval training, running short bursts of sprints, and walking or jogging. Sprint 30 sec, walk 1 minute, etc mixing it up.
Mt total workout time is 15-30 minutes tops. No marathon sessions on the treadmill, I keep my body guessing as to whats next. Run 30 sec, crank out 25 pushups, walk 1 minute, crank out 25 mountain climbers.

With this program, my next goal is 170#. Followed by 160#. Might take me all summer, but thats fine. There is no end point. That will be 50# of blubber off my arse, and gone!. 50# less of ME I have to haul up and down the mountains.


I encourage anyone looking to get in better shape to try this program. I know it works.

I signed up for a half Ironman in RI the week before the season opens in CT... been dropping weight and getting back into shape after the birth of my son but needed a 'goal' to get my butt outta bed at 430-5 and ride a bike or do core workouts several times a week... since I started, I have felt better and been able to negotiate stress better.  PLUS I know I will be able to hunt deeper where the bigger boys are than my heavier brethren of the bow in Sept  ;)

Dang Erik, A HIM right off   :bigsmyl:  

I'm signed up for a Sprint Tri. and a couple Duathlons and running 5k's every month and I thought that was a lot. Go get em buddy!!

Nice job everybody and hang in there.  :thumbsup:  

Tracy

WOW a half...I was due to do one in Sept right before elk hunting but my brother got deployed to A-Stan early so no half. YOU GO BOY!

I am up to 6 miles running as my long run with a half-marathon looming in 8 weeks. After that it is a triathlon every month (Sprints and one Olympic)until I do my Colorado and Wyoming elk/mulie hunt.

Keep up the good work everyone...that air is thin, the mountains don't get any smaller each year, and I am a year older. Man I love it :)Can't wait!

Adirondackman says"PM me and I will share a hunting workout based on my military experience"

I shot you a PM. Any advice would be appreciated.

I believe in signs or indicators. I bought a Bowflex tred climber set it up (You need to go to M,I,T assemble it). I used it faithfully for two days then my puppy chewed the wiring out of it. There you go, I was ment to be this way!!!

Another 5k in the books and I got a new PR by 4min.  :bigsmyl:  I'm down 28 lbs and still a ways to go before my Triathlon but I'm very happy with my progress.

A big reminder why we should all take care of are selves eat and drink right and go to the doctor and get check ups. A 51yr man dropped dead just a ways from the finish line, Luckily there was medical personal on site and they revived him with chest compressions and had him on his way to the Hospital quickly.

If this would have happened to a solo hunter in the woods bowhunting things could have ended much different.

They announced that he made it and was doing well  :pray:   That was good news for sure but I just wanted to remind everybody to have things checked out and get the OK from your doctor to exercise.

Keep up the good work everybody!!

Tracy

QuoteOriginally posted by wapitimike1:
I believe in signs or indicators. ...

Me too. When I start gasping for breath just climbing stairs and adding another notch on my belt its a sign I need to start working out.

Keep the momentum everyone!

J-

As of today I'm 40lbs lighter than than I was in deer season....15 more & I'm were I want to be for turkey season....I can't believe how much more energy I have...may have to buy some new camo that will fit...lol...

44 Years here.  :cool:   I have been Trying to Walk some each Day, even if its just cruising the Local Wally World. Bad Knee and Use a Cane, but I have a "Walking Stick" to get around the Woods!!  :thumbsup:  
  Been doing some Light Weights, just a Lot of them.  :archer:   So, I AM Trying, for whatever thats Worth!! LOL  :archer:    :biglaugh:

Keep after it fellas...I am running on some bad wheels wight now but everytime I think about quitting one of my long runs I think of a bull that is screaming his head off up the mountain a ways. I wanna be fit enough to go get him!

The only type of exercise that doesn't bore me is riding my bike.  Looking forward to warmer temps so I can get out and ride.

Lately, I'm grinding out some tredmill runs, pushups, situps and my total gym.  Hard to get amped up for it.  I'm still carrying a heavy pack on the t-mill as well.  

I caught myself talking to a friend the other day and we were chatting about some of the bigger name bowhunters who don't workout!  Bad sign....

Sustained effort = success.  

Brick by brick.


There are other perks to getting into better shape too. Just the other day, as I was walking toward one of those glass doors you see in stores, I could see in the refection a woman turn and check out my butt. Made me feel almost young again! I told my GF and she said that woman better be careful, because my butt belonged to her!  (And thats alright w/me!)

I'll take whatever encouragement I can get. Dreaming of elk season, being able to enjoy the backcountry trout streams, or reflections in windows, its all good.

And good for you Bill! Keep it up, walking stick and all!

Joshua

I just got my 3 month follow up results from the doc. Cholesterol down from 276 in December to 136!!! Needless to say, I'm thrilled with that.
Also down 35 lbs, 4" smaller around the waist, and feeling great. Workouts have been hit and miss, planning on buckling down on that this week, but I can run a far cry more than I could 3 months ago. My plan is to continue a slow and steady pace towards 160#. Will be talkin to my doc about eliminating or at least reducing the cholesterol meds, and see how the way of eating I've adopted maintains over the next 3 months.

Whenever I think of stuffing garbage food in my mouth, I think of that stack of weight plates that now weigh 35#, and remind myself that could be back around my mid section if I let my guard down. I plan to replace that image by theend of summer with a 50# bag of sand. As a reminder of what I won't be hauling around the mountains next time I go west.

Good luck to all in your efforts, the vigilance is well worth the sacrifice.

QuoteOriginally posted by Autumnarcher:
I just got my 3 month follow up results from the doc. Cholesterol down from 276 in December to 136!!! Needless to say, I'm thrilled with that.
Also down 35 lbs, 4" smaller around the waist, and feeling great. ...

That is just fantastic! Keep it up brother!


Joshua

I did this, last week

Mon. - 4 mi. run
Tues. - 10mi. ride in the woods (mtn bike)
Wed. - 20mi. ride on the road (mtn bike)
thurs. - 4 mi. run
Fri. - 10mi. ride in the woods (mtn bike)

I'm taking today "off".....and doing a leisure ride on the bike with my wife, tomorrow.

I've only owned my bike for 3 weeks, now.  I haven't found anything to work me this hard...other than an all-out weight lifting session.

The gym DEFINITELY has its' place in a fitness regimen.

To get in bow shape I accidentally made a bow that weighs in at 71#'s.  I have never been so motivated to increase strength in my back muscles.  I recommend overbow yourself, swimming and running (in case you wound a dangerous animal and need to run or swim to saftey).  Nothing like potential embarrassment at elk camp to get you off the couch.
Josh

Like Joshua Lee, I've found no better motivation than working up to a heaver bow.  I may not hunt with it, but its a great way to make your "normal" bows easy to shoot.  Of course, the rest of the body needs work too.  You "kill" with your arms and back - you "hunt" with your legs.  H

Man you guys are doing great  :scared:  
The Triathlon training must be paying off or they got my time wrong  :biglaugh:  

Been shooting my bow almost every day getting ready for turkey season this week.  :D  

Tracy

ran 4.5 miles tonight,very windy,but hung in there and did it,ran my second 5k this past weekend,running is not like hunting,theres a fine line between love and hate,and when the weathers not good i lean the wrong way,but i know those elk are in shape so i better be,its only 5 months away,if your not training you got time,if you are keep it up.peace out Mule.

Test your stamina.

Do strenuous workouts, especially legs, every day for seven days. This will tell you how fast you are recovering, if your stamina needs to go to the next level, or you need more strength.

The sign you need to work on stamina is after the third day your output is dropping. And it might drop  rapidly if you are older. The idea is to workout to failure. Then do it again tomorrow.  If you are older, it takes a lot longer to build the kind of stamina that gets tested in the mountains. So try to push your threashold every couple weeks and then recover, train regularly, then do it again. You will see improvement.

This will mimic what it is like hiking the elk woods if that is the  benchmark. You don't have a lot of time to recover there. Not days anyway.

Joshua

Nice weather here in Central AR today.  I set out to do a 5-miler.  But with the beautiful weather and my own stubborness, I ended up with a 10K run, but I was slap dab wore plum out! My pace was kinda slow at 9 minutes or so.

I am trying to shead about 10 pounds for an upcoming CO Wilderness Elk hunt so I am trying to run 3-4 days per week and a couple days of weight training as well.

Finally, I am trying to hike some with my pack/gear of our local "Mountains", course these be hills when comparing them with CO and 9500 feet that we will be hunting in.

Really good comments and thread!

I AM 65 DO NOT DO ALL THOSE THINGS.I JUST HIKE AN SCOUT YEAR ROUND.THE MOST IMPORTANT THING IS SHOOTING MY BOWS EVERY DAY.KEEPS ME SHARP AN KEEPS ME IN SHAPE.WHEN I HIKE UP STEEP HILLS OUNCE OR TWICE A WEEK.I AM READY FOR BOW SEASON.HAVE FUN BE HAPPY DO NOT WORRY DEER SEASON WILL SOON BE HERE.

QuoteOriginally posted by JOE HARROD:

I AM 65 ...SHOOTING MY BOWS EVERY DAY.KEEPS ME SHARP ...HAVE FUN BE HAPPY...

Spring is here.
I start my scouting/mountain conditioning next weekend. May still be a lot of snow up there but its fading.
To augment my workout I will be in elk country at least one day a weekend,  hiking and learning more territory. Pretty psyched just to be out in the timber and seeing what is on the ground, finding new wallows from last fall and in general stumping my way  to a better shot. All while smelling the flowers.

I get to hone my gear kit too- pack, caloric needs (early weather is cooler and a good way  to find out what your body needs to stay strong and WARM), bivy camp routine/gear and new ideas on water supply. By fall it will be all ironed out. I plan to use either a tent or a tarp. No bivy sacks for me.

Joshua, always surprised how big the world becomes when you start to walk it.

ttt

i have allways been blessed with being strong, at 39 i am jut now starting to feel a couple aches and pains. my wife got me in to running and i have NEVER felt better in my life, my cardio right now is very, very good. i try to run atleast 20 miles a week with must of it done on the weekends. my down fall is i love to eat and am fond of beer! this July i will run my first marathon. i need to start dieting more without a doubt as i am not a small guy at 201. running is not as hard as many wouldlike to believe and use as an excuse, yes the first dozen times feels like your going to die and you will hack up and spit of stuff ya didn't know ya had in you!! THEN you will start to love it and want more of it. gradually you will increase distance, time and will power. helps you focus and keeps you sharp. its nice to know when your in the woods if something happened and you had to help someone you could pretty much go all day. i use to be a gym rat in school and that felt good but for me NOTHING gets you in better shape then running and dieting.

Whats the latest John?

On my own end I have started hitting t he trail with pack.

Well I've been shooting the 70#ers I have every day.  At least 50 to 75 times, plus some lighter weight (55# -60#s) to work on form.  Might have to order a 75#der to put some more hump into it!    :D    Nothing, I mean nothing improves shooting a bow more than strength!!!  Its not - no pain, no gain.  Its - no brain, no gain!!!  You want increased preformance - shoot a heaver bow.  Put in the time and effort - well worth it.   :archer2:   H

Well spring is here and it's been nice, it sure helps me with motivation. I have been hiking after turkeys with a full load on. I have had the pack full with decoys and some trips the pop-up. I have not been worried about weight so the pack has been quite heavy at times. Most days on the mountian I've been doing 4 to 10 miles in soft snow and soft mud,and with the pop-up in the pack it's a workout. I have pulled out the bike and been riding  when I can. Surprisingly I feel pretty good for how lazy I got this winter. Some of you guys are animals with your workouts,keep it up.

ttt

One last time to top.

I'd be interested to hear some more about autumnarcher's progress. He had made some serious changes and lost a lot of pounds his last post.

J-

TTT I have been hitting the gym and swimming as time allows.

I finally took the plunge...  I ended up drawing a fantastic elk tag, but it's in Hell's Canyon.  A buddy who hunted there last year said it's so steep it'll put muscles in my terds.

I decided to try and help myself out, so tonight after work, I did it.  Loaded my pack with a 35 pound plate, warmed up by walking a quarter mile on the treadmill, then did 15 minutes on the stairclimber.  The machine said I made it 40 "floors" during that time and I'm relatively certain I'm going to be feeling it in the next few days...

Now just gotta stick with it for 8 more weeks  :) .


Jeremy

Congrats on the great elk tag! I just switched from my road bike (120 miles a week) to doing stadium stairs. Not many hills in my area and the HS football stadium is the only hills I have to work with. I am doing around 4,320 steps per work out (got boarded and did the math) and will be adding my 25lb pack during the second week. I am going every other day rite now so that gives my legs a day to rest! I am still doing my morning workouts at the jym but now it is time to increase the cardio! Legs really feel fresh from all my road work the last 6 months!

Doing a 600yd lake swim and a 2 mile run this evening. I have a triathlon in 5 weeks then 2 weeks to walk/train for my WY mule deer/cow elk hunt...I am lucky. My hunts usually are at 11,000 ft. This one is just gonna be about 8,000 ft. Keep training dudes   :archer2:

Added stairs and running this week.

marathon is coming up soon. going out for a 10 mile run up hills shortly, raining pretty good here but will be a refreshing brake from the heat wave! keep up the good work everyone!

Ran 3 miles this morning.  I have been hard at it.  Lost 12 pounds so far and 13 to go.  Shooting my bow almost every day.

Keep it up

I hike horse trails with a BullPac with a 50# bag of play sand strapped on it, plus my water. You do get some looks but it does work well.

I'm 56 and have DDD (2 heirniated discs in low back)... going to CO for a wilderness elk hunt this fall. I'm riding a road bike 15-20 miles every other day. Since I began riding a month ago, all chronic back pain is gone.

I think the riding is good for my knees too. I've had arthroscopic surgery on one knee (torn meniscus) but they are doing fine. Hitting the bowflex three evenings a week. Not losing much weight (although eating "fairly" clean).

Still have my gut. Gotta clean up the diet more.

Hope to begin shooting (again) every other day.

Good luck to all!
Wayne

Now that its almost elk season I am training by running uphill with my bow in hand then making a shot. Wow, you will learn a lot about shooting this way.

Good luck everyone and good job all of you that have been working out!

Joshua

Got my triathlon in 6 days: 600 yd swim, 16 mile bike, 3.1 mile run. After that I will have 2 weeks to WY so I will start some serious walking with my 50 pound pack over the toughest hills I can find. Keep after it everyone...the finish line is near!

55 years young, have always been in better than average shape. Some how this year has been very difficult to do the right thing and workout. I have an elk hunt in 30 odd days we all need encouragement!

p90x, I am half way thru & I feel better than in years. I played 70 minutes of small sided soccer with guys half my age last week & kept up quite nicley.  The p90x really works.  Mike

enlighten me Mr. No on this p90x,,,,I'm always looking for an edge to stay young.

Interesting topic for sure. I'll turn 42 this year and USED to think all of you old farts were preaching doom about aches & slow recovery times. Guess you could say I have learned my lesson!
Hanging around with my 15 and 14 year old kids (and their friends) has made it clear that I have lost a step or two.

Re the P90X program. We love it! It is a DVD set (of late night TV infomercial fame)that you can do at home with limited space & equipment. Lots of calisthenic style work. The official set is pricey but can be had on e-bay pretty cheap.

I wish I had a out west hunt to go on ...
I have over the last few years been preparing for my 50th birthday . riding my bike watching what I eat ...I think I am in pretty good shape...
I feel these things should be a matter for daily
concerns and not just when you go to the doctor or realize that your not what ya used to be...

I finished my triathlon this past weekend. It is excellent training for the mountains. In 15 days I will have my Stalker recurve in my hand and will be racing elk and mulie bucks up the mountain.

My training is now different. I am loading a pack daily and walking hills with 25 pounds for 3 miles. I tell ya, even in good triathlon shape I can tell that having a pack on is tough on the wheels. I hope to work out the kinks before I saddle up in the high country.

Here's a pic of my finish prize: my triathlete wife of 13 years. She's good lookin' and lets me go bowhunting in the high country if I'm a good boy and train with her  :)  

(http://i147.photobucket.com/albums/r296/wapiti792/tripick.jpg)

ttt  This thread started back last year after elk season in Colorado.

How did everyone do meeting their goals?

Goals met  :)  Fitness level achieved, backstraps toted down the mountain   :campfire:

I am 62 years old.

I walk an average of 200+ miles per month every month of the year.

Usually at about 6 to 8 miles per day, in a minimum of 1 hour and never more than 2.

Sometimes more sometimes less.

It is always hard to start but as my senior Drill Instructor said many years ago 'You ain't gotta like it, maggot, you just gotta do it...'

Just gotta put one foot in front of the other for an hour or two.

It helps minimize a lot of health problems that come with aging.

Charles.
USMC (retired)

Just turned the BIG 40 in July and I wish I had taken better care of myself.  I notice that I come home from work(I'm a plumber) alot more sore and injuries last FOREVER.  

I am finally watching what I eat and do some light exercise(better late than never)but I have a long way to go.  Wish me luck.

I have met all of my training goals and now were waiting for the hunting season to start  :bigsmyl:  

The training continues but will slow down some during the season and pick back up after. It's hell getting old and you have to stay with it thats for sure, It's to hard to start over  :biglaugh:  

Tracy

Fitness is a lifestyle commitment for me, and not just something to jump into prior to the season.  I'm primarily a runner.  I have done 12 marathons (including Boston 3x).  I also cycle and do  intense whole-body conditioning--weight and resistance training, core work, Yoga, plyometrics and stretching.  It admittedly is an issue to integrate the conditioning workouts into my running program.  That often means two-a-days.  But, I feel better today than I ever have!  A contributor to that was recently giving up alcohol and coffee, and I love wine!  I have always eaten a low fat, low sugar, low salt diet, but I never ate breakfast consistently.  I have started doing so, as well as getting at least seven hours of sleep a night.  I don't get tired during the day, my thinking is clearer and I think even my vision is a bit better.  A vital element of any conditioning program that is often overlooked is rest .  You make gains not during a workout, but during the recovery period.  So, for me at least, the balance of cardiovascular and strength training, proper nutrition and rest, all wrapped into a consistent, progressive program leading up to a goal event is what keeps me going.  By the way, I'm 64, 5'11", 142 lbs and have a 32" waist--and proud of it at this stage of life.  The best part though, is keeping up with my 40-yr old son climbing canyonsides chasing elk!

this is good stuff to hear. when going out in public i am constantly amazed at what a bunch of fat slobs we Americans are. my favorite thing on hunting shows are the fat hosts who are elk hunting in the mountains. they look like they are about to die. you know they drove, rode a mule, or were choppered up that mountain as there is no way they walked up there.

Even after playing hockey twice a week and hiking the mountains every weekend I lost another 8lbs hunting elk this past fall- and I didn't think I had much fat to lose! Guess I was fooling myself on that one...

But the hunting was fun and being able to handle the work made it even more enjoyable. I saw some amazing things while wandering about with my bow and met some new friends in the elk woods.

Being 51 I have not stopped the exercise routine. Can't afford to. Its very hard to re-start and I've come so far I'd hate to have to do that all over again just to be even. So I just kept going with the workouts even after the elk season ended. Dreaming of 2011!

Don't stop yours either if you can help it and if you are kicking yourself for not starting one yet its never too late.  
If you are thinking its time to up your hunting game, consider bettering yourself physically.  You will be glad you did and so will your loved ones.

And I bet you will be a better hunter too.

Joshua

I think its good to keep these fitness threads going. There are several.

Set some attainable goals. Its being consistant that will get you into shape- not a brief surge of effort.


Joshua

For what its worth- I have lost 70# in the last five months. I have more clothes that fit, probably last several lifetimes, everything becomes easier.  Method is input verses output. If I eat pizza which I do a lot, then I eat less at lunch time.  Ride a stationary bike everyday at least 45 minutes and then walk a treadmill for at 15-20 min. plus weights working different muscle groups each day.  To keep from being bored I read a book while on the bike and watch my favorite movies while on the treadmill I be 62 in a few months and have the time to do this workout.  If you don't just do a little each day and as you see results you will find the time to do more.

I broke my back on Aug 2009 in a ATV(Quad) role over while on duty at work.  In the last 15 years or so prior to the accident, I carried a little more weight that I wanted. In fact when people would phone they would ask if I was around and my wife would answer he's very round.  

I was mountain goat twice prior to my accident, loved the adventure but I can't say I enjoyed all aspect of the hunt to there fullest.

Since the accident, I have changed my life, I go to the Gym 1.5 hours per day, cardio (20-30 min.) and weights (legs/upper body/intense ab workouts on a three day schedule). I run several up to 5) times a week and even have taken up self instructed yoga (that way I don't have to look like a fool in front of any one else. Instead of going for coffee, etc. I work out doing push ups, squats and stuff in my office. I have changed my life totally to healthy eating habits and food choices.

I have recently realized how much more you can enjoy experiences and life when your in shape.  I love adventure hunting and now realize that health enhances these experiences.

This past summer I went Mountain goat hunting again, what an adventure and experience of a life time even with no goat in hand.  

Anybody preparing for any hunting, whatever type or just living life you owe it to yourselves to get into shape and adopt a healthy life style.  

My inspiration for getting in shape and changing my life style have been my family, me having a second chance and my great friend and hunting partner TDHunter.

Maxwell, we are proud of you! You will be a hunting machine next year.

Thanks Frank-

Started p90x this summer did 3 weeks felt great then stopped. Hunting season came and I killed a big Ohio buck but felt like crap. I am 45, weigh 294 am 6 feet 5 tall and smoke. Sooooo..I refuse to give up, started p90x lean and just completed my first week. Feel better already than I did all hunting season. I also have an E cigarette am am cutting down the smoking. My goal is to complete p90x this time and quit smoking by the time I complete my first round of P90x. I will do this and I will succeed.

QuoteOriginally posted by Rick P:
OK several things standing out......
1) Hunting isn't done by a long shot, most areas of the US have a month or two of small game hunting yet, if your not taking advantage your loosing a "workout" and training opportunity! Nothing preps you for hunting like hunting!

2) I get the distinct impression many of you only go afield when your hunting!?! 90% of good hunts takes place in the off season, consistent observation of game animals there habits and habitat is essential to being a good steward of our resources. In short scouting is 90% of the game and great exercise.

3) Stop making excuses! I don't buy it for a second if your too fat, old, busy whatever it's your own fault! I've broken my back twice and was told I'd never walk without a cane again in august of 2000. Being a couch potato is not a valid excuse. With all do respect to the christian tradgangers statements like "I've been praying for the will power" drive me nuts! Fact is he/she probably has given you a thousand reasons to get in shape including the drive to hunt. Instead of praying try doing! Hard, painful and often humiliating work is what got me back in the field.

4) You guys lead a MUCH easier life than I ever have! Between hauling firewood, raising a 3 year old and maintaining a household I seldom need to put in any training time. Looking at the lives of others It dose seem to me that allot of "gym time" is only needed because folks are to lazy in there regular life. Stairs not the elevator, don't use the closest parking spot, walk to your hunting pards house.....it's less than a mile! TURN OFF THE TV AND SPEND SOME TIME OUTSIDE! PLAY WITH YOUR KID!

5)Traditional bow hunting is a lifestyle not a 1 month a year hobby, live that life instead of talking about it. Spend time afield every week, scouting, observing and learning about the game you chase. You'll be a better hunter and "get in shape" without noticing your working out. Either that or take up gulf.

:eek:

Ok I'll play, I'm 40,and I have a pretty active life style. I xc ski a few times a week for 1.5 hours and walk quite a bit.... I do some strength work out like push ups, pull ups and core work on the ball!! I was pretty inactive for almost 2 years, cardio wise and man I had hard time in the mountains... So skiing is for me a great way to get in shape!!

Maybe one thing for the one that have a hard time to work out, instead of saying to your self, "I need to go work out...". make it that way," i want to go work out...", I'm not kidding you, it does make a difference!!

QuoteOriginally posted by Hummer3T:
...I have recently realized how much more you can enjoy experiences and life when your in shape.  I love adventure hunting and now realize that health enhances these experiences...

Amen on that sentiment!

QuoteOriginally posted by bluegrassbowhunter:
As of today I'm 40lbs lighter than than I was in deer season....15 more & I'm were I want to be for turkey season....I can't believe how much more energy I have...may have to buy some new camo that will fit...lol...

Make that 107 pounds total...& have kept it off a year this past November...

:clapper:     :clapper:    :clapper:

Great job Mark. Can't wait to see your skinny self at the Ky TradFest. We need to shoot a round together this year. You can show me how the hometown boys do it.

Best thing I've found is mountain biking. Work and hunting has had me slack off with hitting the trails. Thanks for the thread.

Gotta get back to it.

A favorite trick of mine is to take my rucksack, put some weight in it, and do stair steps up to about 12 inches. I'll put on a DVD movie or some music and do this for 30 minutes or so. As I built up and got used to it, I increased the weight and then worked 5 pound dumbells into the action.

At first it sucked out loud, but I realized fat was jumping off of me.....and I was working my huntin, hiking, weight carrying muscles so I kept at it. Eventually I'd get my heart rate up to 140 or so and be really huffing the air, and keep it that way for 20 minutes or so.......

It took a while to get to that level, but man what a difference it made.....and I could do it in any weather, inside while watching hunting videos for motivation.....all it took was my old Army ruck, some junk weight (fired rifle brass in a box) and commitment.......

I need to lose some weight before next hunting season.

Went on my first Elk hunt last August. Camped at 9500', if I had not been going to the gym and bumped up my cardio before the trip I would have been in trouble. As it was I had no problem hunting at 10,000' for a week. I did lose 7 pounds on the hunt but that was just from a real change in diet while camping. Staying fit and in shape is really a full time thing! [P.S. I have been working out at the gym for the last 7 or 8 years,before that it was martial arts!]

Just found this thread. Some great info & success stories. I have been overweight my entire life. Have always been very active but ate badly. Was following the elkfit challenge thread. Eating much better. Lost 15#s last year but ready to get serious this year. Want to drop 50 between now & our April stumpshoot in rockwood. Lets keep this going for those of us that need it. Thanks. Will turn 45 on Feb 10th.

1st trip back the gym in over a month last night reminded me that I have a long way to go! The first step is taking the first step. The second step is to keep taking that first step! Last year was a no hunt year due to a pinched radial nerve in my neck/right arm. I hope to be in the best shape of my adult life by this October! It's not age that slows us down. It's what we're not doing that slows us down. My dad is 76 and we have him going to the gym all the time now and he has the chiro stretching him out. He feels better now than before he had a mild stroke 10 years ago.

I am humbled by reading about those of you who have come so far.

TTT

Honestly, I am already ready. I'm running 3 miles 3x per week at a good solid pace, between 25:00-26:00 minutes. I'm also lifting 3x per week doing fast intense sessions. For instance, last night in 20 minutes I bench pressed 200lbs 37 sets of 3 reps, for a total of 111 reps, again, that was done in 20 minutes. I followed up with 5 heavy sets of one arm dumbell rows with a 125lb dumbell for sets of 10 reps. A few sets of leg raises with ankle weights and I was done around the 30 minute time frame.

Also get in plenty of shooting after dinner. Shooting helps the digestion.

I am physically fine thank the Lord, it's the mental aspect I am beginning to deal with. I don't think I hunted a single morning last year. I hate getting out of the sack early. Didn't used to bother me at all.

Ran four miles with my Chessie on Saturday and was surprised I didn't fall over.  My wife got me a six month gym membership for my 36th in April and I punished my arms and chest today.  I've never weighed over 140 in my life, but at one point could press 225 and that was when I was over 30.  My goal is 225 by October.

As far as my mind goes, I've always envisioned myself being at my best between now and whenever.  When we're young, our body is ready but often not the mind.  Only time and experience gets the head where it needs to be IMO.

There was a thread about fitness a while back that made me reassess my condition: fat, out of shape, diabetic (a real problem in winter), high blood pressure, and a cholesterol issue. So I went on a program in March and have lost 16 lbs. I still need to pick up the exercise a lot more, but at least I am making progress. It is woth it.

The mental game is also coming into play. Its just harder now to get up early, particularly in cold weather. Mental conditioning is more difficult.

I'm lucky I live in Montana and get to hike the mountains a lot.  Right now I work out of town and hike for 3 hours on Mon, Tues, wens shed hunting and stump shooting with a pack on. Thursday I drive home, than Fri, sat, sun I'm humpin bear bait up the mountains in Idaho.  Never in perfect shape but the elk really better watch out this fall if this keeps up!

Just started hitting the gym three times a week about a month ago.  Circuit training, mostly.  Now that the decent weather is here I'll be biking and walking a lot.  Can't push it too hard as I have some knee issues (57 years old).  I just started the Paleo diet as well.  I feel a whole lot better and should start seeing the weight drop soon.  I'd like to drop 15-20# more before my caribou hunt this Sept.

I think that simply dropping 25-50lbs of weight would do more good for people than anything else. The fact of the matter is that it really doesn't take that much work to accomplish. Cut out 1 meal per day and get out and simply walk briskly for 30-45 minutes several day per week and it will come off.