Conditioning for Next Hunting Season Starts Now
Don’t wait until the summer when your hunt is around the corner. Don’t wait until spring. Conditioning for next season should begin now! If you’ve followed western hunting for long, you’ve probably heard it said that the better shape you’re in, the better your chances of success. And it’s true. Being in the best shape possible will open the door to more opportunities in the field.
However, there might be a better motivator for good conditioning. Being in shape for your hunt is about more than success. It’s also about going home with great memories. When you’re in the best shape possible, a physically challenging hunt should be fun, not frustrating. When you’re in good shape, you’ll have more fun!
To hunt game like mountain caribou or mountain goat or moose like we do here in British Columbia, you don’t have to be a world-class athlete. But you do have to set fitness goals for yourself that are both challenging and attainable.
When it comes to conditioning, it’s important to make a plan for yourself that’s realistic. Start where you are. You may want to consult a trainer at your local gym to help you get started. Make sure you start with a workout plan that fits your ability level.
Your plan also needs to be challenging. Tailor a workout to your abilities but continually push yourself to get better. When you’re on the mountain next fall, you will be glad you did. You will be able to enjoy the experience rather than cursing each step of the way.
Make a commitment now to begin a challenging and realistic workout routine. No matter how you measure success on your hunt, your experience will be much more enjoyable if you’ve prepared physically.
Written by Ryan McSparran
Ryan McSparran is an outdoor writer, a hunting and fly fishing guide, and very proud to be a part of the Kawdy Outfitters team.