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A tourist on the Salkantay trek route with his trekking equipment │Un turista en la ruta de Salkantay trek con su equipo de trekking.

Training for Salkantay Trek: An Easy Salkantay Trek Training Plan

How to Conquer the Andes? Training for Salkantay trek!

The Salkantay Trek is one of the most thrilling routes in the Peruvian Andes. This trek is not just a means to reach Machu Picchu; it’s a physical and mental challenge through stunning landscapes and challenging altitudes. Before you embark on this adventure, it’s essential to understand what lies ahead and how to prepare adequately.

Remember, this trek involves several hours of hiking on uneven trails, with ascents and descents. Additionally, part of the route takes place at high altitudes, making it crucial to be prepared for the physical challenge this entails.

To overcome these challenges without difficulty, it’s important to take care of your physical condition. While you don’t need the physique of an athlete, maintaining adequate physical fitness is essential to handle activities such as hiking, building endurance, and improving your breathing capacity.

Why is Salkantay Trek training important before the hike?

Imagine walking through the mountains for several hours a day, traversing uneven trails, facing steep ascents and descents that will test your legs. Now add the altitude, with peaks reaching up to 15,255 feet above sea level. Do you feel the challenge? That’s why it’s important to be in good physical shape. Being ready to tackle the Salkantay trek will not only help you overcome these obstacles with confidence, but it will also give you the energy needed to fully enjoy each spectacular landscape that surrounds you.

A tourist on the Salkantay trek route with his trekking equipment │A tourist on the Salkantay trek route with his trekking gear.

Being prepared for this route will allow you to fully enjoy each spectacular landscape that surrounds you.

How to train for Salkantay trek? It’s Easier Than You Think!

You don’t need to be a professional athlete to conquer the Salkantay, but it’s essential that your body is ready for the task. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Walking and Running: This is undoubtedly the most important and realistic exercise you can do to prepare. Nothing will prepare you better than simulating what you’ll be doing during the trek. Start with long walks on uneven terrain, gradually increasing the distance and difficulty. If possible, train on hills or mountains to get your legs used to ascents and descents. Incorporate some running to improve your lung capacity and endurance. This type of training for Salkantay trek will strengthen your legs, improve your breathing, and perfectly condition you for the long days of the Salkantay Trek.
  2. Gym Training: Complement your walks with specific exercises at the gym, like the step machine and stair climber to simulate ascents. Squats and lunges are ideal for strengthening your legs, and core exercises like planks will give you the stability needed on uneven terrain and at high altitudes.
  3. Swimming and Cycling: If you’re looking for variety, swimming and cycling are excellent for endurance without much impact on the joints, though remember that the main focus should be on walking and running.
  4. Dancing: Yes, dancing! While it’s fun and useful for coordination and endurance, it should be a complement to your walks, not a substitute.
Physical preparation for the Ausangate trek│Training for Salkantay trek│Physical preparation for the Lares trek

If you’ve already planned to do this trekking route, start exercising to overcome the challenges.

Don’t Underestimate the Salkantay Trek Altitude

If you’re coming from lower altitudes or sea level, facing the altitude of Salkantay can be a significant challenge. Upon arriving in Cusco, make sure to take at least a couple of days to acclimate. During this time, walk slowly, breathe deeply, and allow your body to gradually adjust to the reduced oxygen levels. Consider using coca leaves, coca candies, or chocolate to ease altitude sickness symptoms; these traditional remedies can be very helpful. Also, avoid any intense physical exertion during these first days to ensure you’re in the best shape when you start the trek.

Don't foget your Training for Salkantay trek│Salkantay trek altitude sickness symptoms│Don’t underestimate the altitude of the Salkantay trek

Don’t underestimate the altitude of the Salkantay trek.

Proper Gear for Salkantay trek

For a hike at 15,255 feet, you don’t need super technical gear, but you do need comfortable and appropriate clotSahing and footwear for the conditions you’ll face. Opt for lightweight layers that you can easily add or remove as temperatures change. A good windproof and waterproof jacket is essential to protect you from the cold and occasional rain. A pair of well-worn, comfortable trekking shoes are indispensable to ensure stability and comfort during long days. Don’t forget a hat or cap, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the intense UV radiation at high altitudes.

Last-Minute Tips:

Nutrition and Hydration

Maintain a balanced diet and ensure you’re well-hydrated. Carrying some chocolates or energy bars can be useful to keep your energy levels up during the trek. And don’t forget to drink water constantly, especially at high altitudes.

Enjoy the Journey

The Salkantay Trek is more than just a physical challenge; it’s an unforgettable adventure. Every step brings you closer not only to the majestic Machu Picchu but also to a deeper connection with nature and yourself. As you prepare, visualize the breathtaking views that await you and the satisfaction of reaching your goal. Remember, this journey is as much about the destination as it is about the path you take to get there.

With these tips and good preparation, you’ll be more than ready to tackle the Salkantay Trek. Now that you know you need these exercises to be ready, don’t forget to eat and hydrate properly. This will help your body recover and build a bit more muscle. See you on the trail to Machu Picchu!

Written by: AdminGustavo

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