PHYSICAL WELL-BEING

PHSICAL PREPARATIONS - Mountaineering is suited not only for the physical fitness buff. A weightlifter will not necessarily pass the first minor climb with flying colors. However, for the deskbound in particular, some physical conditioning would help make a climb more enjoyable.

• Legs, thighs and knees conditioning - These are the parts of the body that have to endure a lot of pounding and stretching of joints during treks and climbs. The following exercises, done regularly, would help condition these body parts:

** Knee bends - to strengthen the upper thighs, knees and stomach

** Squats - to strengthen the upper and lower legs and knees

** Leg stretches

** Stairs climbing and descending - allows one to practice proper trekking stances as well

• Stamina and resistance buildinig - Strength without stamina or staying power is of little value in trekking and climbing. The following are stamina developers:

** Jogging

** Bicycling

** Swimming

The first is easiest to do regularly, and is least cosly since no special clothing or equipment is absolutely necessary to get it done. The last is best for overall muscle toning and lung capacity development. However, it does not help much in developing staying power in warm, sweat-inducing conditions.

• It is said that the best preparation for a major climb is another climb, a minor one.
• Do not cram the exercises on the last week or day before the climb. It is better to rest properly on the night before the expedition.

*** to be continued...