Preparing for High Elevation Hunting or Sports
As you well know, a successful hunting experience is a collaboration of tasks and good fortune. Terrain, weather patterns, proper gear and logistics all factor into a successful hunt. However, if you are not physically able to get to the great location, the fancy gear and perfect weather are not going to compensate for laborious breathing and physical exhaustion. We master every detail. Often, the only factor that stands between a successful trophy and a disappointing hunt, is the hunt.
While scouting this fall, it became apparent to me that even for someone in fairly good shape, the physical strain of a high elevation hunt could be extraordinarily difficult, even dangerous. For this reason, I have developed a High Altitude Conditioning Program designed for all ages and abilities. This program is specifically customized to each hunter, taking into account their age, fitness level, medical history, nutrition, hydration and existing conditions.
A reputable outfitters primary goal is to convey valuable information to their clients and put them in position to achieve success. This process begins long before the hunt by physically preparing your body for the task ahead.
My High Altitude Conditioning Program has been designed to enhance the hunting experience, increase the success rate and decrease fatigue. I am confident that you will find this to be a worthwhile addition to your preparation, and the peace of mind of knowing that you are physically up to the challenge at hand.
For more information or to have a customized fitness and/or nutrition program designed to enhance your hunting experience, please contact me at trainedbytracey@yahoo.com

Program	Individual
Sport Specific/Recreation Consult and Program Design	$125
6-Week Follow Up Consult with Program Design	$75

Prior to beginning an exercise program
Complete physical or consult physician
Prior to embarking upon a fitness program, it is essential that you have a baseline indication of your blood pressure, resting heart rate, cholesterol and other medical factors. If pre-existing medical conditions exist, they can be exasperated by the increased elevation. Having a baseline allows for improvement comparison. Consulting your physician prior to beginning an exercise program is recommended.
Hydration
I can’t express the importance of proper hydration especially at higher elevations. Dehydration occurs more frequently at higher elevations since the relative humidity is low. Dehydration can ZAP ones energy. Increase water intake prior to your scheduled hunt to deter dehydration. Limit alcohol, caffeine, antihistamines and other products that ‘strip’ the body of water. Keep in mind the body will pull water from non-essential parts (muscles/joints) to hydrate essential parts (organs). This process can lead to fatigue and musculoskeletal injuries that will certainly detract from a great hunting experience. I recommend consuming half your body weight in ounces per day in water. This process can be achieved over a thirty day-building up- period. If this amount is not possible, drink enough to cause urination at least every three to four hours.
Flexibility and balance
The two most neglected components of fitness. Strength and endurance are essential for high elevation hunting. If you are lacking in either of these areas, injury can easily occur. I always give a flexibility program along with the strength and endurance conditioning (which will incorporate core exercises to increase balance) and I STRONGLY recommend you do them! They will get blood flow to muscle and joints and allow for increased performance through all range of motions.
Nutrition
Let’s face it…we treat our cars better than we treat our bodies. Think of yourself as a brand new Mercedes. Put top quality gasoline into your car! Fast food, processed food, high saturated fats, over consumption of alcoholic beverages, high sugar consumption, tons of caffeine, along with white flour overload slow our cars down. They clog the engine and decrease function and speed. Think NUTRIENT DENSE not CALORIE DENSE. Lean proteins, whole grains, fruits/vegetables, and lots of water allow for a great base. Make your meals colorful and choose good fats like nuts and olive oils. Food in the whole state (minimal processing) will have the highest nutrient value and give you a great base of vitamins/minerals and fuel for your hunting experience.
Mrs. Stroup's fifteen years of experience in the field of fitness, health and wellness has made her one of the most sought after trainers in the outdoor business and the personal attention she gives her clients is unmatched.
Donna McDonald
President  Montana Outfitters Assoc.