Physical Training
Charlie Lynn is a former NSW State ultramarathon record holder and has trekked the Kokoda Trail 48 times. He provides the following advice for prospective trekkers:
- The trek is physically demanding- you will therefore need to be physically fit.
- Be realistic in the time you allow to prepare yourself for the trek. If you have been leading a rather sedentary lifestyle allow at least three months to develop your strength and fitness.
- Your training plan should include a program to improve your aerobic fitness and leg strength.
- Aerobic fitness can be gained by commencing a vigorous walking program. The minimum requirement is to start with walks of about 45 minutes duration. This should be increased by intervals of 10% per week. As you progress it is a good idea to mix in some slow jogging.
- Other good aerobic activities include aerobic step classes in your local gymnasium, jogging, and cycling (for at least 45 minutes per session).
- Strength can be gained by specific exercises. The best place to do this is in your local gymnasium. Step machines are ideal . Plan a program to strengthen your leg and abdominal muscles.
- Acclimatization is a problem as we are going from autumn in Australia to the heat and humidity of PNG. It is therefore a good idea to work out in a tracksuit. The fitter you are the quicker you will acclimatize.
- Think of your training as a deposit in your fitness account - everything you do between now and the trek will pay a dividend on the Trail. You can't cheat on yourself in preparing for the trek. If you do the work you'll complete it with ease - although there will be some patches where you might have a bit of self doubt!