Countdown to Kili #1

There's now only 42 days until my girlfriend and I set off for Kilimanjaro. As well as this being the journey of a lifetime for us, we are also doing it to raise money for the Keech Hospice. The Keech Hospice looked after my aunt in her final days (See my motivation post for more info) and I can't thank them enough for the amazing work they did for her, and still do for others. Please feel free to donate to the charity, every little helps! (You can donate here).

Training has stepped up a notch!

What does my training include?

Strength training -

I'm following my own weightlifting program, generally 3-4 days a week in the gym. I split up my weight training days by pushing and leg movements day, followed by pulling and leg movements, and repeat.

I have a workout log where I have all my main exercises listed and write down my progress. As long as I'm progressing in strength or repetitions I'm happy I'm going in the right direction.

Cardiovascular training -

Currently, I'm trying to get out and run around 4-5 miles at least 3-4 times a week. Getting up and running before work or in the evening if I'm not going to the gym. See my post on safety tips while out running, it's important to stay safe out there.

My main focus while out running is to focus on my breathing, as well improving my cardiovascular capacity. Up on Mt. Kilimanjaro the level of oxygen can be as low as 50% of it's normal level due to the altitude, so keeping my focus on my breathing is important for me.

To increase the intensity of my cardio I run with weight, either using the day bag I'll be using up Kili, filling up a CamelBak with water (3kg), or sometimes both. It's good to get the feeling for the weight you'll be carrying up the mountain as we'll be walking for several hours a day.

Walking - 

We're going to increase the amount of long walks we go on too, to help break in our boots a bit more and to also get used to the walking with weight.

If you're interested in climbing Kilimanjaro there's a really good guide book that we use, check it out here. It's been really helpful to us, I'll do a review on it soon.

I hope you enjoyed this post, look out for more posts in this series! If you did like this post, please +, comment and follow me on Twitter. I'd be more than happy to answer any fitness or Kilimanjaro related questions you might have! #getmoving