Taking the time to stay in shape during the off-season could make a massive difference in how you feel during a hunt. Here are some tips to keep in mind.
Why You Need to Stay in Shape
Staying in shape during the off-season is essential, and not just so you can have a more successful hunting trip. We know that chilling in the off-season and preserving your energy for your hunting trip can sound like a good idea. But, studies show that an unexpected increase in exertion can lead to heart attacks in people who are inactive or at risk of heart failure.
Establishing a certain level of fitness can help prevent injuries and heart attacks. Meaning that with regular exercise, you’ll be able to enjoy the thrill of the hunt for many years to come. The good news – is it doesn’t take a ton of gear or money to get into shape. Here are some tips to help you on your fitness journey in the off-season.
Think Lifestyle, Not Training Plan
The biggest way to help you stay in shape? Treat it like a lifestyle change and not just some plan you’ll do for a little while, then quit. That means developing exercise as a habit and improving your nutrition.
There are likely things in your everyday routine that are non-negotiable. Like eating food and brushing your teeth, those aren’t things you skip. You can do the same thing with exercising. When you develop exercising as a habit, it won’t just become second nature when getting fit for hunting, it’ll become part of your life routine.
If you’re wanting to stay in shape during the off-season, don’t forget about your nutrition. A major part of your overall health is the food (and drink) you put into your body. To see and feel results, make sure you’re getting a balanced diet packed with protein, fiber, fruits, veggies, and healthy fats.
Take a Hike
The most basic exercise you can do to stay in shape for hunting is going for a hike. Hiking mountainous terrain is helpful, but no matter where you are, there’s always an option for you to hike. A short subdivision hill can be hiked over and over to help you get in shape. But even if the time or your terrain doesn’t permit outside workouts, the stair climber at your local gym will do the job.
While going for a hike on its own is good, adding some weight with a backpack is even better. Hiking under load prepares your legs, back, and core. So load up your backpack or wear a weighted vest and hit the trail (or sidewalk or stair climber). Just remember to not get too eager and load up your weight too heavily or hike too far when you start. Set a realistic baseline/mileage goal and progressively add more weight or distance each week.
Don’t Overlook Strength and Core
Cardio is important, but so is strength and core training. Your legs will carry you during your hunt, so make sure they stay strong. Lunges (especially weighted walking lunges), squats, leg presses, box step-ups and step-downs, and high-volume calf raises are all exercises you should try incorporating into your routine.
Keeping your abs and back muscles strong is crucial and will keep you stable as you hike over rugged terrain, bend and haul, or aim and fire. So, add crunches, planks, and Supermans to your routine, too.
Mix it Up
Each hunt presents new physical challenges, so your workout routine should be no different. By incorporating a variety of exercises, you’ll stay motivated and ready to tackle anything your next hunt throws at you. Mix up your workouts by type, intensity, and duration to reduce the risk of injury and give your muscles time to recover.
Stretch it Out
Give your joints some love with stretching, and they’ll give you love back. You’ll also have greater peace of mind about your ability in the field by being more flexible. Get into the habit of stretching your body in the morning, at night, and after your exercise sessions. Stretch your hip flexors, neck, and any areas you worked out.
Just Do Something
Staying in shape during the off-season isn’t always easy for everyone. While it doesn’t have to be aggressive, you should start somewhere. If you’re currently doing nothing, then any exercise is an improvement. Even just walking a few laps regularly around your neighborhood means you’re on the right track, and you’ll notice an easier transition of getting in the field.
Book your next hunting adventure with us, and we’ll show you what you’ve been missing.
Book Your Next Hunting Adventure with Soap Mesa Outfitters
With these tips, you’ll be in tip-top shape for your next hunt. If you’re looking to hunt elk or mule deer with professional guides in the mountains of Southwest Colorado, we’d love to be an option you consider. At Soap Mesa Outfitters, we offer quality guided hunts on our 3500-acre private ranch that overlooks Blue Mesa Reservoir. Not to mention, we also have a National Forest Permit, which provides an additional 8000+ acres with utter seclusion due to its limited access. Let us show you what you’ve been missing.
