Bowsite.com

Cardio, legs, and core but don't ngelect the upper body.

The only thing I would add is....if you really do all that day in and day out as a way of life. the heck with the diet. A person has to have some vices...mine is ice cream...and beer of course.

I like to add some moderate impact exercises (besides running)broadjumping with medicine ball...or a propane tank...whatever it takes :) or diagonal hops with a medicine ball. For me, balance excercises are a must due to poor ankles.

GR

There's about ten years worth of fitness threads on the elk forum. Originally they were "Exercise Guys" threads. Now they're "Only XX Weeks" threads. The "Git in Shape for Goats" thread on the goat forum last fall was perhaps the best of all.

I look forward to seeing more bowsite features by Dwight.

I really felt much steadier in my shooting after using that technique for a while. And of course a small rock or redbrick can take the place of a dumbell if you practice hike where you wouldn't want to come back for an expensive dumbell. Anyways. . . carry something in your hands. Good luck

Shooting skills is the most imporant aspect in Bowhunting training

Please no more spandex pics lol

But another senseless assault on pizza???? This is one of the basic food groups ;-)

I stick more to weightlifting, been following Dan Staton's train to hunt site for the past few months. Lots of great workouts on there.

Shooting skills are the easy part. Staying in peak physical condition takes a tremendous amount of self discipline.

Sarge

Nothing but pure, unadulterated bull$hit there buddy.

Some of us do the best we can without mountains out our back door. I could care less if you run. Don't belittle other people's efforts.

Nothing but pure, unadulterated bull$hit there buddy.

Totally agree JLS. I use triathlons as my spring/summer training, along with scouting trips into the hills. Once you complete an Ironman race, just about any hunting terrain you encounter is going to be a piece of cake. Congrats to Dwight for keeping in such good shape and helping others to do the same.

There is another statement that I disagree with!! Maybe when you are hunting tree stands back east, but whenever I have folks coming out west to try their first elk hunt, this couldnt be further from the truth.

I am not saying you shouldnt know how to shoot, and of course, it is important to practice, but the SINGLE most important aspect of hunting western mountain hunts is to be PHYSICALLY and MENTALLY prepared. I dont care if you can hit dimes at 100 yds, and your last name is Hood, If you bonk, and give up, after 10 miles in elk country, you are not going to be successful.

and for reference, I think for most guys, Mile 10 is somewhere between day 1 and 2.

FISH

Dwight never said you had to run just that you'll get the best bang for your buck concerning cardio.

Like stated many time being in shape and mentally tough will make a huge different on most hunts dealing with mountain terrain.

Yes shooting accurately is a must but it doesn't do any good if your not in shape because 10 to 1 you won't hit were you're aiming at after climbing any steep terrain because you'll be out of breath.

We can all learn from him & see what true dedication it really requires to get in & stay in "Elk Shape" Thanks!

ElkNut1

I didn't grow up in a hunting family. It wasn't until I was 18 years old and off to college that I picked up the bowhunting bug. Initially I found it as a way to fill the time that I used to fill with high school sports, and it didn't take long until I was hooked. During the college years and even my few years of bachelor life after graduation I exercised regularly. I did extensive weight training and moderate cardio and was always in great shape.

Once I got married and we started our family I found less and less time for gym memberships and regular exercise. I spent the next 4 years gaining unwanted weight and put on close to 30 pounds. I found myself getting lazy during the hunting seasons.....wanting to ride a 4-wheeler into the stands instead of trying to slip in undetected. Or if I did try and walk the entire way I would be so soaked with sweat and tired that it made the sit miserable. Add to that the fact it became difficult to keep up with my 1-1/2 old son too.

Long story short, it was at that time I re-committed to getting back in shape and being better able to enjoy my family and my hunting time. I bought a few sets of dumbbells, an exercise ball, a couple elastic bands and made a simple home gym from that. In conjunction, I started alternating some running and mountain bike riding for cardio and of course watched what I ate. In less than a year I had lost the 30lbs, feel great, and plan to keep it that way!

All guys talk about is how how far u can run HMMM ive never seen an ek die from a bowhunter running it to death, Elk are also a species that even someone disabled can hunt in the right areas,so even the bowhunter thats very out of shape can get a crack at an elk .

My point being to be a well rounded bowhunter for mountain hunting , one needs to have his game together.

1 Fitness to get up and down . 2 Mental for when the times are tough no game , bad weather etc. 3 Shooting skills for when that one shot must count.

Its great some of you guys are in such great shape , but please understand that only a very small group can be as fit as some of you . louis

Dwight Schuh says that running is the best way to train for mountain hunting.

Fitness guru and my friend Cameron Haines says that running is the best way to train for mountain hunting.

And lil' ol' me, who's been running marathons and ultra-marathons since 1978 and coaching fitness here for about ten years says that running is the best way to train for mountain hunting.

Ya'll suppose there might be something to this?

You totally miss the point. But thanks for playing!

No. It's all about passing on to others what I've learned over the years.

What do you do to teach others how to maximize their potential? Being a negative naysayer does nothing to help.

Unless you are arguing that the # of P&Y elk a person has killed is a proxy for their physical fitness, you have completely missed the point.

No one ever said you have to be an ultra marathoner to be a good hunter. No one said you have to be an Ironman triathlete.

The "best" workout is the one you can physically do, and will do on a consistent basis. If your knees are shot, then running isn't the "best" workout for you is it? If you can run, get out and do it. If you hate it, find something else you enjoy, and do it. Do weights, bike, swim, hike, XC ski, Pilates, Yoga, P90X, yada yada yada.

If being physically fit adds 1 year or 10 years on your life (or more), then didn't that just make you a better hunter? You can't hunt elk if you're dead.

And show me where Louis/city hunter professed being well rounded in his first post. He stated that shooting is everything. Only after getting called on it did he change his tune to being well rounded.

It is completely untrue that only a small percentage can be highly fit. I am no special talent. I'm not fast. I can't bench 400 lbs like Aaron can. I can't backpack or hike the mountains all summer because I have a job, three kids, and wife with a job. Oh, and I live in the flat lands. But, come September no one will be waiting for me to climb the mountain. And I'll do it all in my running shoes, on my bike, or in my 10x12 home workout room.

If being mentally tough is so important, wouldn't that same mental toughness come from dedication to one's fitness?

If I were I suppose I woldn't have to be in the shape I'm in to get in farther and higher to hunt "dumber" elk. ;^)

I get one 2 week shot a year to be in elk habitat to learn and hunt elk. Being in the best shape I can be in only will guarantee that I can spend my time doing that and not sleeping my aches and pains away.

50 weeks a year I can talk with elk hunters, research, scout maps, and gather all the intel I can. Doesn't do me as much good though if I spend my time in camp licking my wounds because I'm physically fatigued.

All things being equal, the hunter in better shape stands the better chance of having a great hunt without relying on luck to deliver it.

Great article, BTW!

Watts

I do a little trail running but for the most part do not do well running. Like Dwight said, it lays me up if I max out the run. I ride road and mountain bike in the summer and cross country ski in the winter. I had a bowflex years ago but sold it. A nice machine but too expensive now to replace. Use the kettlebells and some squats. No situps since the bells do what I need.

I need to watch what I eat since my weight is too high at this time,. It goes up and down too much.

Bigpizza, All in the name of charity of course :)

Enjoyed the feature

I elk hunted with a runner, I mean this guy, bragged about his 2% body fat etc, and all the runs he went to. He had the Cameron Hanes look, but he did not have the Cameron Hanes MENTAL TOUGHNESS........ He was cryin the blues in 4 days, too hot too wet, too tired, so he headed back down.

You have to LOVE TO HUNT, for one thing. I met a fat guy in Colorado, a local, and how he went up and down every day, was amazing. I would not want to be heavy or anything, but it goes to show you.........

However you young guys will learn this, as you get over 55, you have to change your diet, and work out more to stay in shape.......

I like this article, I think Cameron Hanes adds alot. I work out for one reason, so I can hunt in the fall.....

Its that simple. I follow Mens Health Guide System which I posted on the running thread, using all kinds of muscle confusion exercises, and add a routine daily in the swimming pool..... It works for me.....

By the way Mr. Schuh, I still have your original pack and frame, that you designed, and except for the lower fanny pack part, it is still going strong......

Best In Field to all

That's certainly true. Better yet however, would be a Jack Lalane type who calls the office to extend his hunt.

The Jack Lalane type will also be able to hunt for many more years than the chubby type.

I think I'll open a thread entitled

"A pack of Cigarettes a day does it matter to your hunting success?"

;-)

Kyle,if I may use your own statement to answer your statement.

"You totally miss the point. But thanks for playing!"

:)

I'll even submit being nicer to any/all wealthy relatives may impact your "ability" to kill a trophy elk more than training for an ultramarathon.

BALANCE is all I'm sayin'

Where the heck are you hunting that allows you to have pizza for supper? ;^)

Genesis,

Given that I don't have any wealthy relatives, nor have I ever had any wealthy relatives, I guess I'm stuck with staying as fit as I can for as long as I can then.

I elk hunt with two other guys- 1)K lives in LA. He rides bikes, plays hockey, and does strength training. 2)P lives at 4500ft. He runs, hikes with backpack, and does pushups. 3)I live at 4500ft. As previously stated I do p90x, Insanity, Asylum, hike with backpack,etc.

When it comes to hunting, we are all tough enough. I couldn't honestly say who is in the best shape. Seems to vary slightly by the day.

Do what works for you. If you are experienced, you know what fit is. I used to workout without a heart rate monitor. Then I got one because everything I read said I needed one. The reality is I don't have to look at a number to know when I am at my anaerobic threshold. I know where it is and what it feels like.

I agree with the balance concept. Go back and read Dave Holt's book- Balanced Bowhunting. As others have said, the real key is mental toughness. With that you want your body ready to do whatever you want. Anybody can be their best.

When I limit these kinds of meals to just once in awhile, I enjoy them all the more.

I eat 'pizza and beer' pretty much seven days a week.

Mike

I believe that running (especially hard surface)is too hard on the knees.

Other than that, strength training.

Drop a few pounds and you will be impressed at how much better your cardio is.

Actually I do several solo hunts a year, and at 56 I now have to work alot harder to stay in hunting shape. My routine has slipped somewhat, this is a good reminder to get moving again.

Who here has EVER said you need to run ultras to be a successful elk hunter?

Not me. Not Dwight. Not Cameron.

Agreed. While I've never met the man, I know a few who have. They all say he's totally genuine and interested in helping others learn. That's pretty much all I need to know.

Man you guys like to argue...

The other last thing you want is a knee injury to ruin your trip.

I would concentrate on isolating the work to your quadriceps. Most any exercise that works quads IS going to work lungs. If your quads are in shape and ready for work then that is all you need. My favorite quad workout is the Arc machine. It is just like climbing a mountain but better than the stairmaster. It definitely works your lungs.

Got to be efficient and bummin your knees ain't efficient.

So fitness gurus please expliain how a bronx born bowhunter with chronic lymes disease can go to canmore and survie ,,,

Im not no special person just a guy that loves to bowhunt , so if can do it then most others can , all they need is the desire . louis

Okay, we'll dub you Superman. All hail Cityhunter, the immortal bowhunter who conquered Canmore and never ran a step.

....Hail Cityhunter!

Also, at first I kind of laughed at him doing curls in camp, until I remembered that he hunts all fall. At his age, taking three months off from the workout regimen would be a killer to keeping in shape. Actually, at my age it wouldn't help much either. If I was going to spend all of November hunting whitetails I'd have to work out in camp too. Tough problem to have.

I have always enjoyed Dwight's stuff. I'd love to meet him someday.

What would lead you to believe anyone on this thread disagrees with your bold assertion?

I have never disagreed with that. Reference my above posts. You however, seem more intent on repeating your opinion until everyone agrees with you.

On my hunt last January, I was up and down the mountains like I had never been able to do before. It made a Huge difference. In addition, the mental aspect of pushing myself to get my butt out of bed every day or push to get that extra mile during a workout also increased my mental fitness. No, you don't have to run.....but do something. You wont be sorry you did. I have found that running is enjoyable to me and burns the maximum number of calories.

I have taken the time, during some down time, to do Yoga, stretch, use of flex bands, water filled gator aid bottles for curls, simple stuff... 10 - 15 minutes is all I need.......

Dwights Mule Deer Book was one of the best hunting books ever written. I got to meet him once, what a genuine guy.......

I think everyone on this thread, loves to hunt, and knows what it takes.

I also think alot of guys think, well I dont hunt the mountains so I do not need all this getting in shape stuff...... Well I can tell you load up a canoe and freight it in the bush, and that can be a b... buster too.......

I also like the physical training tips on Bowhunter TV, thats a good show...... I wish that mag and TV show emphasized the DIY hunts more, than the private ranches they are always on, but for the most part, its pretty good......

To each his own,

Lee

I am surprised there was no mention of HIIT.

Maybe in a 2nd installment. Thanks for contributing.

Having hunted the mountains for years with people on both ends of the spectrum I have seen people in great shape fail, while I've seen people in horrible shape succeed. I have hunted with Kyle (NvaGvUp) 3 times in the mountains and also with Steve_Jo once. They both are in unbeliveable shape as far as I am concerned. Kyle has already posted his age, he is twice mine and Joe is 4-5 years older than me. Kyle has both mental toughness and the stamina better than that of a race horse.

One time in Colorado we hiked down 1500+ feet and about 1.5-2 mi from camp where I arrowed a large bodied bull right at dark. The next am we headed down to 1/4 and pack him out. I unknowingly drank most my water on the way TO the Elk and when we headed back up, on a much open sidehill It really started to hit me after I ran out of h2O. I dropped my pack and Kyle kept going. He beat me back to camp easily and I left my pack in the shade so I could resupply my water bladder. That was an eye opener, but aparently not enough for me cause a couple years later I was not in better shape, but worse.

In 2009 Jo, Kyle, and myself headed to Idaho. To me, Joe is the PERFECT hunter in all aspects. He has it all. The right attitude, unbeliveable fitness, the correct mindset, and the drive and want to get it done. That trip was an eye opener for me, but not quite enough...

7/18/10 was the real eye opener for me when my wife gave birth to our first son, that changed me. I've always had the right mindset and attitude, and that along with mental toughness and the want to succeed has allowed me to have great success in the mountains, and I am at 100% success on 13 archery elk trips, but I have to wonder what if... If only I had been in better shape all these years I know I would have enjoyed myself and my hunts more, that that right there is enough. but could being in better shape have allowed me to tag some better bulls over the past 12 years? Who knows, but over the next 12 years we'll find out!

Everyone wants to use BigDan as an example cause he isnt in the best shape of his life, has had heart issues, yet continues to arrow P&Y Elk each year, sometimes more than one in a single year. I bet even Dan would admit if he took his knowledge and experiance and coupled that with the fitness level of Kyle or Joe there wouldnt be an elk safe- anywhere.

Do you need to be in untra-good shape to kill an elk? Of course not, but being in shape will only help, while not being in shape can only hurt.

michael

I had the pleasure of meeting Dwight after a race. It was brief and I wouldn't expect him to remember. But he seems like a very genuine guy who took a little time to talk to me, even though he was there to see his daughter finish.

I was watching an elk video last night and a out of shape, heavier set guy kill a pretty nice elk. Put a good shot on it. Good for him. What did I notice? He was breathing hard while narrating as he and the camera man set up. He was still puffing throught out the whole sequence leading up to the shot. Nerves and adrenaline? Spare tire, donuts and sausage gravy! IMHO! And this looked like pretty mild terrain. Will he continue to kill nice bulls? Heck yes! But he is likely to have the advantage of guides, access roads, and private land which I will not be hunting. Good for him.

Would he be able to hunt public land elk in the areas which I have hunted? Yes. Could he do it effectively over a long hunt, if required? Doubt it. There is no entourage of people to glass for me or pack out an elk if I kill one.

My ideal weight on my final packout of an elk hunt is around 230 pounds. My body weight of 145 pounds plus the 85 pounds of elk meat on my back.

It isn't much of a secret, running is my primary choice for year around training/fitness. I won't apologize for that. I also do stairmaster, elliptical, ride bike (stationary and mountain bike) and hike with weighted back pack. I have never said that anyone needs to run XX miles to elk hunt. But, the article identifies running as Dwight's primary choice for fitness, and he explains WHY running has benefits vs other exercise. There are other choices and options (which I advocate also), but running gives you the "best bang for your buck". Some people cannot run. I understand that. You do the best you can with the cards you are played. Having physical issues which exclude running is one thing, choosing not to run is a choice. In the author's opinion, you would be choosing to exclude one of the best ways to improve your overall fitness.

RE: Mental toughness. When hunting in the mountains, you have the opportunity to be tested for generally two weeks out of 52 weeks in a year. Will you "pass the test"? Can you hunt as hard and effectively on day 10 as you did on day 1? Sucks to find out while hunting, you were wrong. Some folks have a tendency to over estimate their physical abilities as they type on the computer. Running can test you 50 weeks out of the year. (I am elk hunting the other two weeks!)

Running has tested my mental toughness more than anything else I have ever done. Whether it is training or races. Try getting up at 4:45 AM for the 6th day in a row, running 8-20 miles every day, with temps from -10 to -20 every time you head out the door. For the 4 week in a row. I am tired and sore, but I have my mind set on a goal. I will not allow anything but my best training effort. This process parallels the way I elk hunt, day after day. Sleeping in, sitting around camp because I am sore, or quitting prematurely detract from my goal, which is to kill an elk.

Biologically speaking, a human body typically has enough energy stores within to allow the average person to run/race around 20 miles. Much further than 20 miles, the body sends messages to the brain to slow down/recover. This is the proverbial "wall". Proper training has taught my mind how to exist and persevere when my body is telling me to quit.

For folks who run ultra distances (up to 100 miles), this scene is repeated multiple times.

Kinda sound like the definition of mental training & toughness to me!

My training and physical fitness allow me, if needed, to push hard for long periods of time. Once I stop pushing, my heart rate recovers very rapidly. This increases my odds of pulling off a well executed shot. For myself, nothing I have done in my 45 years has aided my physical and mental well being more than running.

Just like AZBugler stated, you don't have to run. But do something. The benefits will extend well after elk season is over.

I'f I'm elk hunting, I certainly don't need any more exercise.

But either way, I'm not sure about the camo spandex...

You should know that the hike into your camp was no walk in the park. A fat chubby guy with no go could not make it back there. So no matter what he could not kill a ram.

Some snow and a little bad weather and its a 12 hour death march. So being in shape is important. Your attitude is even more important. You did it and found it easy but remember that lots of guys pack it in on that hunt.

Don't undersell the need for working out and getting ready and doing some training.

You have a tough mental nature, and that can get you most of the way up the mountain. The fat chubby guy has little will power and a weak mind with very little resolve.

Just my opinion, but then I day hunted where you did so I could return for pizza and beer each night.

Z BArebows post just above is one of the best I have ever read on this site. Nice job Z.

Good post and Nice article Dwight!

michael

The last couple of years have been tough. I run all year to stay in shape, my buddy starts doing a little biking about a month before our hunt typically.

What I've noticed in the last few years, is he tends to give up easily. There was a time, when we heard a bull sound off, that it didn't matter where in the heck the bull was, we were on our way to him.

Last season, we had one good encounter, and it was after I finally convinced my buddy to go way down and back up after the only bull that would ping us back all morning. His initial response when the bull bugled across the canyon was, "I'm not going clear over there".

I guess my point is, mental toughness does not last forever. I have 10 years on my hunting buddy, and I would be attacking the elk woods much more aggressively, if he wasn't holding me back. It seems much more important to him lately to head back to camp and pound beers.

Kudos to Dwight for an article well written, I am sure he still has many great years of extreme bowhunting left in him, thanks in no small part, to his training regimen.

Best of Luck, Jeff

I've tried various ways of preparing for mountain hunts, and for me there's no doubt that running gives me the biggest payoff for the time spent. The next best (for me) is hiking with a 50-60# pack. But that doesn't even come close to the effect I get from running. Just as I'm no big fan of eating my spinach, neither do I love running. But since both are good for me, I'll choke 'em down ;-)

I would never put my name in the same sentence of schuh and hanes even if we had the same birthday, I have respect for them both, although the spandex bicep curl image might be forever burned in my mind.

Bill

This is a stupid arguement now and it has always been a stupid arguement. Each person has hunting abilities. Those abilities are improved with fitness....even big dan's. I say that without even knowing the man.

Glad to see to back here. Good luck with the re-building process! I hope Shannon and the kids are starting to recover from the shock and sorrow that tornado caused.

Hmmm. If i remember the get in shape for goat thread it was mostly people praising Kyle?

"Who here has EVER said you need to run ultras to be a successful elk hunter?" "Not me. Not Dwight. Not Cameron."

WOW to compare yourself in the same league with these two is pretty impressive!

As a professional guide for several years it use to be a joke to get the dudes who start off every hunt telling you how great of shape they're in. Distance runner are the worst. Most have almost no physcial endurance and break down fast. Most of the guides in my circle made it part of their daily agenda to have these kind of dudes puking on the mountain by noon the first day of the hunt.

I always hated getting two kind of dudes, the ones who are so concerned about fitness they're more intereted in showing you how fit they are then they are hunting, and the dude who simply refuses to take any responsibility for his physical condition. I want the guy in the middle, fit enough to get the job done but slow enough to hunt while he's doing it.

If your serious about being fit for hunting, put down your running shoes and save the money you spend on gym memberships and buy yourself a pack of hounds. Turn them loose on a track twice a week and problem solved.

I think I would like to hunt with most Bowsiters but not all.

Lost 30lbs since Jan 1 and exerise 5-6 times a week. WY elk coming up!

Not much for running,( bad knee) but like stair stepper and should probably add pack and boots.

Consistency is what I need. Also book called Protein Power helped me alot. Happy Hunting ss

Get a life. Also, why don't you try actually READING the Git in Shape for Goats thread before you make a bigger fool of yourself?

BTW, how hypocritical that you should slam me for simply wanting to help others get in shape, while at the same time starting a thread about YOU and YOUR most awesome wonderful bear hunt? LOL

As to the rest of your nonsense, I've never claimed to be even half the bowhunter that Haines and Schuh are. In fact, I've rarely posted on hunting skills or techniques at all, because I'm pretty average on that stuff at best. So I'll leave the hunting expertise to them.

But I do have considerable experience in staying exceptionally fit. I've likely run more ultras than both of them combined, and faster as well. Cameron referred to me a few years ago in one of his blogs as 'the original ultra-running bow hunter.' Last year, at his request, I coached him for his successful attempt at the Western States 100 Mile Endurance Run.

So with your permission or not, I'll keep right on trying to help teach and coach guys how to improve and learn on the subject of fitness for mountain hunting.

As mentioned, there is nothing magical about running - only you can get the same amount of calories burned quicker than most others. A good rule of thumb is about 100 cal/mile - whether you walk or run. So, you can walk that mile in 15 min or run it in 7.5. For those of us who have full-time (non hunting) jobs, getting twice the work done in the same time is valuable.

And, as I get older (46), I find that Mr. Schuh's advice on diet is spot on.

As Amoebus said, 100 calories/mile. Take it to the bank.

Sure, heavier guys will burn more per mile than lighter guys, but as a basic rule of thumb, 100 calories/mile is pretty accurate.

Personally I think that the fitter you become, the more efficient your body becomes, so you burn less calories/ mile. But that's a good thing.

How true. I bear and lion hunt with some guys here in Idaho, and they are tough, rugged, mountain men. My best hunting partner is a hound hunter, and no matter how hard I train, he can walk me into the ground at will. These guys never quit.

So you are saying i will burn the same number of calories over 5 miles no matter if I run or walk it? How can that be true? I am not second guessing you, if you guys say it is so I'll believe it-

What utter BS.

I've never in my life had a gym membership, nor a pack of hounds (which I would think would be a tremendous way to get in shape, btw.) All I do is run.

Of course having a pack of good hounds would cost thousands of dollars, require a major kennel and then you'd need to live in the mountains as well, Neat idea, but totally impracticle as well as not doable for 9,999 out of 10,000 hunters. Running, OTOH can be done anywhere at any time, and costs nothing more than a pair of shoes, running shorts and a beat up and tattered t-shirt.

In August, 2008, at age 59 and 11 months, I did a backpack Stone Sheep hunt. The outfitter was my guide and told me I was in better shape than anyone he'd ever had on a hunt.

Last fall, at age 62 and one month I did a Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep hunt. The outfitter told me the exact same thing. The day I killed my ram, my guide and I were three miles up from the horses glassing a huge area. After a while he asked me what I thought about dropping down across a saddle below us, hiking up a long slope and looking down into the next basin. The distance was probably two miles.

I said, "Sure. What's it look like over there?" His answer was priceless.

He said, "I don't know. I've never been there. I've been guiding up here for ten years and you're the first guy I've ever had who was willing to go there!"

There are many ways to get in great shape for mountain hunting. But you guys who claim you can't get there by just running are full of baloney.

I think a few folks might need smaller brush strokes as they type and categorize folks.

The one absolute is is being out of shape in the mountains will kick your @ss. Dwight laid out several training options and supported the advantages and disadvantages of each. Not every hunter has mountains out there back door. I'll bet the majority readers of this article live below 1500'. The hunters who live below 1500' (and many who live above 1500') are looking for all options to be a more fit hunter. If you don't like the options, don't kill the messengers.

Since Dwight has been a successful bowhunter for so many years and he lives in Idaho, he must have hounds. Apparently he will cover that in the next feature, Advanced Hunting Fitness. BigDan has killed more elk than you can shake a stick, and he also killed himself a dandy bighorn, he must train with dogs. Ludicris statements/comments?? Of course they are.

"If your serious about being fit for hunting, put down your running shoes and save the money you spend on gym memberships and buy yourself a pack of hounds. Turn them loose on a track twice a week and problem solved." The readers can come to their own conclusions on this comment.

I never read that Idaho said you can't get there by just running.

His economic projections are flawed and lots of logistics are omitted, but I bet his program would get a person in good shape.

I agree with Z, too many folks here have something that works for them and they want to label it the "best" way, or the "only" way. I think there is such a cross section of folks on here that one can easily see that there are many ways to skin a cat. However, someone will fire off with their chosen method and label it the "best" and "only" way.

Ironically, it was the first ultramarathon that I did that forced me to train by methods other than running. I can run further and with less effort now by running three to four days a week than I could when all I did was run. The added strength training has been a good addition to my overall fitness and conditioning as well.

There's nothing like a crossfit type workout to make you feel like someone's used you to mop the floor.

There is much good science out there regard training for multiple sports. A recent article in Outside mag May 2011 addresses training to compete in fairly elite level competitions by training fewer hours but in a "smarter" way allowing one to fit it into their life.

The whole idea is for each individual to be a better athlete (mountain tough) and not a competition amongst us. What works for me may not work for you. Be open minded consider what might make you better or maybe just as good with less risk of injury. Ego should not be an issue here. We should be brothers who share the greatest passion there is.

Good stuff there. I do triathlons because I love the competition but the training also gets me is great shape, both physically and mentally, for the elk mountains in the Fall. Swimming is good for my core and a moderate aerobic workout. Cycling is killer for your quads and hamstrings and a good aerobic workout. Running, the best aerobic workout and mental preparation for hunting, at least for me. Add in the weight room and core workouts and it all works really well for me. Probably not for everyone but it helps me enjoy elk country a lot more when I'm not sucking wind at the top of the ridge in the morning! Whatever it is y'all are doing to stay in shape, keep doing it. :)

That 100/cal/mile is pretty dependent on your physical build. A study came out last year that showed the differences between a 150lb runner and 200lb runner. Both running the same pace, same distance, the 200lb runner burned as much as 8 times the calories as the 150lb runner. Same held true for cycling. So us bigger guys get more benefit for the same workout as you lightweights! :)

That 100/cal/mile is pretty dependent on your physical build. A study came out last year that showed the differences between a 150lb runner and 200lb runner. Both running the same pace, same distance, the 200lb runner burned as much as 8 times the calories as the 150lb runner. Same held true for cycling. So us bigger guys get more benefit for the same workout as you lightweights! :)

As far as getting in shape, its pretty stupid for anybody to say you wouldn't hunt better if you were in better shape. Dwight just gives some ideas on how to get in shape and how its changed HIS hunting.

As far as the running vs. other methods, I personally choose other methods because I absolutely HATE to run. Give me a ball (basketball, football, soccerball) and I can run for hours and hours. Put me on a treadmill or an open stretch of road and it is pure agony. Just my preference, I also love P90x and have had great results. Insanity I don't like much (even though the results are great), again just a preference. To each their own....including hounds as I'm sure that would whip you into shape right quick!

Might want to check out this article. Also, the 100 cal/mile doesn't take into account differences in body weight. It burns more oxygen moving a 195 pound runner than it does a 145 pound runner (assuming roughly equal percentage of body fat).

I advocate running as the best way to get to that point and many others agree, to include the above mentioned Dwight Schuh and Cameron Haines.

What some of you guys seem to be unwilling to understand is that the only times I get 'belligerent' about running is when someone claims that you cannot get in extremely good shape by running alone. Such ill-informed claims are bogus and wholly unrelated to the facts.

Does Dwight manscape too?

Are you saying that spinning is the only way to get in shape for hunting? 8^)

"I never read that Idaho said you can't get there by just running."

Nor did I ever say that.

I'm with you.

I have no interest anymore in responding to those who cannot read, those who cannot understand, and worse, those who's lack of personal success results in a need to attack those who do.

michael

Misuse of the word....Belligerent can bust a wet bag....just sayin' :)

Funny to me how two people can read the same thing and come to two opposite conclusions... Who ever thought that an article about eating right and working out will result in better shape could be so contriversal...

I can't think of any reason other than risk of injury to why you would not want to be in the best possible shape to elk hunt.

Only thing I can add is that training is a lot easier after removing all chips (or bricks in many cases) off one's shoulder!!!

I like to be fit enough to walk out of anywhere my horse can carry me into. I hike with a weighted pack, run some and just started mountain biking. As friend recently told me, "You can be in great shape and when you first get on a bike, still look like a fool!" My legs burned for a week. That must be good, right?

I do both!

Seriously, Aron will probably be the first person to tell you that which ever program you chose, it's all about the mindset and comittment that you set for yourself.

I guess I miss your point, city???

Dan Staton advocates Tabata intervals as a lot of bang for your buck. If you're strapped for time, as most of us are, use interval training to maximize your gains. This is why crossfit type training is so effective, and similar boot camp type workouts.

Really, the only reason I do long distance running is because I enjoy it.

Good luck all.

Jason

Let me be clear, I'm not trying to degrade anyone, especially Dwight. The man is an inspiration. I hope I’m doing what he’s doing ten years from now. My point is that running and being fit to compete in triathlons is not the best measure of one’s capabilities in remote, hardcore hunting situations.

Roy and Cameron Haines are best of friends and clearly, as Roy describes it, they are the true odd couple of bowhunting. No two guys could represent more opposite ends of the training and fitness spectrum.

I have been in life threatening situations with Roy on more than one occasion. In those situations, given the choice of having Roy, Cameron or Dwight to depend on, I’ll take Roy 100% of the time. He might not speed up or down the mountain, but he's coming off the mountain in one piece every time. More importantly, he'll see that his hunting partner comes off in one piece with him.

NvaGvUp, I think claiming that running is the best way for everyone to train for hunting is pretty self centered and foolish IMO. I know and respect some runners, but don't push it on everyone.

Thanks Z Barebow, great post and some good points for why running is one good way to prepare for hunting.

It seems to me that body type/size is a big factor in choosing a training routine. Most runners I know are 150lbs or less. At 6'2" and 190 lbs, I rarely run because I'd rather hike or bike steep hills to get a workout without pounding my feet, knees, & ankles. I workout 6 days a week, but only run when I'm somewhere without a steep hill, bike, stairs or gym.

I picked up my UL3700 pack at Kifaru today and the guy there told me Elk Reaper once carried 250 lbs in a pack for 8 miles in the mountains. He probably can't run a marathon, but he sure would be nice to have as a hunting partner.

Thanks for the article, Mr. Schuh. I look forward to reading your books.

I have a plan to live forever,,,, I am currently on track to meet my goal!

Teach them to look at all the elk you back-country guys run past.

The last day I ran was October 18th 1993...the second to last day I spent in the army. I figured they wouldn't kick me out the last day for skipping pt. Still, I do okay elk and deer huntin'.

Being in good shape, no matter how you get there, allows you to make decisions to go places that increase your chances of running into and killing elk. If you're not in very good shape you look at those same places and think, "too steep" or "too far" and it's an opportunity missed.

I tried working more cardio and less power for my mountain hunts in the steep areas of the Eagle Cap Wilderness and the result was that I was less sure footed and felt more ill at ease on the steeps than I had when I was doing squats and deadlifts. That's just me. You can run all you want and it might be fine in Colorado where the air is thinner and mountains aren't quite so diagonal.

I've taken various horses into steep country too. The more racy types like an appendix quarter horse had problems where my heavy boned grade horses just kept on tractoring along. Mules are the best for that stuff. They're the diesel engines of the equine world but they don't race them.

Then it spiraled into the void where so many threads go on this site. Nva and Cityhunt... youse guys crack me up, hahaha.

So, here's my .02. I've been in terrific shape and I've been in terrible shape. How I got to either point is irrelevant. I know I'm mentally tough in either condition and can still hunt effectively. That said, being in terrific shape is better, WAY better - now I just gotta get back there:) Extra strong legs and lungs are the primary goal - the rest follows.

As far as diet, avoid foods which have refined flour ingredients. E.g., breads, cakes, cookies. Most food in the grocery store isn't really food but an experiment on the human body. A high percentage of this so called "food" would last for a century on the shelves.

Bob, How old is Roy?