Big hikes don’t just “happen.” They’re earned, through smart training, durable joints, and a fueling plan you’ve practiced before the trail gets serious.

In this episode of the Thrive on Plants Podcast, I’m joined by Mikey Bell, founder of Outdoor Adventure Training (OAT), NASM Certified Personal Trainer + Corrective Exercise Specialist, professional mountain guide (Mount Shasta), and a plant-based athlete for over a decade.

Together we break down what it actually takes to prepare for long hikes and big elevation days (including Rim-to-Rim style objectives): posture from the ground up, downhill “armor,” pack weight progression, trekking pole technique, heart rate zone training, and plant-based fueling that won’t wreck your gut.

If you’re training for a bucket-list hike, or you simply want to feel confident and capable on the trail, this is your blueprint.

Key takeaways
• Train the downhill on purpose (eccentric strength + stability), not as an afterthought.
• Posture isn’t “stand up straight, ”it’s alignment under load, starting at the feet.
• Use heart rate zones to build real endurance (and stop guessing intensity).
• Your pack plan should be progressive and strategic, not a last-minute ego test.
• For long efforts, practice a plant-based fueling strategy that prioritizes performance and GI tolerance.

Connect with Mikey + Outdoor Adventure Training (OAT)
OAT Website: https://outdooradventuretraining.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@outdooradventuretraining
Instagram: https://instagram.com/outdooradventuretraining

Some Helpful Videos from OAT
Train for Hiking: https://youtu.be/qHO8m0tQ0j0?si=vvGWSTTNRm02Fvb0
Train Without Mountains: https://youtu.be/42qKDlnt59Q?si=FsTQOT8lon1YZo6U
How Much Should Your Pack Weigh?: https://youtu.be/HgG57D95OMY?si=I9bEKYPyS6ZZg7n9
How to Fit Your Backpack: https://youtu.be/h7eFd-D5_DI?si=Uj9OoqvtRZWnvuXR
Nutrition for Endurance: https://youtu.be/XCPm4VRpX9I?si=jM9IkBVRlX6I-2AZ

#hikingtraining #trekkingpoles #rucking #zone2training #plantbasedathlete #endurancefueling #kneepainprevention #outdooradventuretraining #thriveonplants

Additional resources to help you thrive on plants:

🌱 Join our free Thrive on Plants community: Join Here

🌱 Access the free Plant-Powered Body course: Access Here

🌱 Take the free health assessment for women 40+: Start Here

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