Wednesday, January 16, 2008

Kili Trip Prep - What does it take?

Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest ‘walkable’ mountain and does not require previous climbing experience. For that reason many people approach the climb with the attitude that Kilimanjaro will be an easy walk. Mount Kilimanjaro is not an ‘easy’ walk but instead probably one of the toughest physical and mental challenges you will ever face. The days preceding the final ascent are not extremely physically demanding, indeed a person with a reasonable degree of fitness should have no problems. Yet the final ascent to the peak is the toughest part due to the extreme change in altitude. The failure of the body to adapt quickly enough to the reduced level of oxygen in the air as one reaches higher altitude is the reason a person experiences altitude sickness.

Altitude sickness seems to affect people indiscriminately, regardless of age or fitness level, yet becoming physically fit before your hike will increase your chances of having an overall enjoyable trip. One should be able to walk for several hours without too much of a problem. Aerobic activity, such as cycling or running, is a fantastic way to get and stay in shape. Hiking before this hike is probably the best means of preparing yourself for this adventure. Not only does hiking prepare you for the particular difficulties one faces on a hike but it will also further assist you in your efforts to become physically fit.