Nutrition & Conditioning

Food, fuel, stove, tent, sleeping bag, eating tools, harness, crampons, ice axe, and rope, add up to more than 50 pounds for a 5-day climb. We hike in order to get in shape for climbing, and to learn how to self-regulate with additional weight. In BCEP, the conditioning programs start with shorter hikes with moderate elevation gain. Each weekend the hikes get a little longer and the vertical gain increases. This challenges the body but works up slowly to avoid injury. It takes time for large muscles like our quads to build strength, for our smaller muscles like our abs and back muscles to develop the balance we need for rugged terrain, and for the muscles and ligaments around our joints to build resistance or get used to the impact of many miles of steps.

Hydration in the mountain environment is especially important due to the cold air temperature that removes extra moisture with every breath. This means that climbers need to increase their fluid intake as they expend water through perspiration and respiration. Some climbers prefer a hydration bladder in order to have a continuous supply of water, though keeping the drinking tube ice-free can be challenging on cold climbs. A wide mouth Nalgene bottle is usually carried for backup if the bladder freezes.

Hydration in the alpine is often paired with electrolyte options to help balance proper levels of hydration through to the bodies cells.  

During prolonged activity, muscle breakdown, and glycogen depletion occurs. Being intentional about post climb nutrition can have a significant impact on performance and recovery. Post physical activity the body replenishes glycogen stores and repairs muscle.