But first,
THE WHY.Well, if you have ever been to Washington, you already know that there is something intriguing about the wall of mountains that surround us. Why live in this area if you never become familiar with the terrain offered?
Sure, we've hiked around the state (Cape Disappointment has to be our all-time favorite spot, so far. Don't let the name fool you.), but each time we walk to work, take the ferry across the sound, or stroll downtown for groceries - the mountains call us.
Now we are not one to mess with Mother Nature, but who wouldn't want to experience the glorious peaks that Washington has to offer? (Okay, we understand that a few of you would rather keep both feet firmly on the ground, but that is besides the point.)
We have since given in to the call of the mountains' requests...
Just a quick note: We are not rock climbing. We are filling backpacks with necessary gear, lacing mountain boots, and walking with trekking poles up, up, and up 2 mountains. Yes, we will have ice axes and crampons. We will also wear helmets and "rope up."
So how does one prepare for the steps up a mountain?
Good question.
We had to get in peak physical condition (no pun intended), and couldn't do it alone. We needed help with the technical stuff - using an ice ax, gear selection, what to eat... And mental preparation - overcoming the obvious fears of hiking up a 14,000 foot ice cube (also known as a glacier).
THE WHO: About three years ago, Island Fitness developed a training course to help average folks (like us) train to climb mountains.
Why Island Fitness?
We have been part of the Island Fitness family for 2 years now. The owners, Michael & Alexa Rosenthal, are the most wonderful couple you will ever meet. They provide a safe and encouraging environment for folks to achieve incredible, often life-changing, goals. The Island Fitness crew is our extended family. We couldn't have asked for a healthier place to train for this adventure.
THE WHAT:Train to Climb is a 25-week program that prepares potential climbers for the rigorous hike up the hills of Mt. Adams and Mt. Rainier. There are various options in choosing a program, but all climbers will:
- Complete a Metabolic test,
- Receive an initial fitness evaluation,
- Train with an Island Fitness personal trainer to improve on functional movement, strength and endurance,
- And participate in monthly hikes through various parks and terrain.
Climbers also have access to
nutritionists and massage therapists.THE WHEN & WHERE:
After 4 months of training,
Alpine Ascents International mountaineers guide us up Mt. Adams. This year, we are climbing Mt. Adams on July 14 & 15.
After 1 additional month of training, Alpine Ascents mountaineers then guide us up Mt. Rainier.
Mark your calendars, say your prayers, send positive vibes - whichever you wish... The Mt. Rainier climb is August 17-19.
Save the Date!
