Training

Although no formal mountain climbing training is required in order to reach the summit of Kilimanjaro, a high level of fitness will no doubt increase one’s chances of success. The ascent always involves long walking distances along lower slopes and very steep and strenuous climbing close to the summit. This hike will put a considerable strain on my lungs and legs, adding to this the effects of the lack of oxygen, typical of the higher altitudes. It is very important not to underestimate this mountain!

With this in mind I had to adjust my regular gym schedule to include more work building up strength in my legs, as well as more walking and running to improve my stamina and overall fitness levels.

Over the past three months I have been going for a 4-6 mile run about three times per week. I have also been going for long walks in the countryside each weekend. Although it is good to be able to run comfortably for a couple of hours it is worth noting that ascending Kilimanjaro will be done at a steady walking pace. The ability to walk for 7-8 hours is just as important as the ability to run for 1-2 hours. Especially as the final days ascent and descent will take the good part of 11-13 hours.

I have undertaken many countryside walks ranging from 4 to 10 miles as well as a short break to Wales where I climbed Mount Snowdon, the highest mountain in England and Wales.


Weekly Training Schedule

Monday: Rest day or long country walk
Tuesday: Gym at lunch (1hr) – 4 to 6 mile road run
Wednesday: Gym at lunch (1hr)
Thursday: Gym at lunch (1hr) – 4 to 6 mile road run
Friday: Gym at lunch (1hr)
Saturday: long country walk or 4 to 6 mile road run
Sunday: Play organised sport


Equipment

All communal equipment such as tents and cooking gear is provided by the climb teams. However, a large amount of specialist equipment is required for an ascent of any mountain this high.

My first and most important purchase was a decent pair of walking boots. These had to have a strong sole so not to contort too much on the uneven and loose terrain. They also have to go over the ankle to offer the best possible support. I had to purchase a pair very early on in order to give me the opportunity to break them in sufficiently.

I decided the best place go shopping would be London’s Covent Garden. Never before had I encountered so many outdoor specialist shops in such a small area. I settled on a store called Field and Trek as I found the staff to be the most helpful and knowledgeable. Having tried on numerous pairs and even managing to shred the skin on my fingers in an attempt to tie the laces as tight as possible, I settled on a pair of Raichle MT Trail GXT boots. These were by far the most comfortable. They offered excellent ankle support and had a very stiff sole. They also had a Gore-Tex coating which meant they would keep my feet dry.


Other essential equipment:

• Gore-Tex down jacket – to wear nearer the summit. Will keep me warm and dry
• Gore-Tex rain jacket – lightweight rain jacket to wear if it rains on lower slopes
• Trekking trousers/shorts
• Gore-Tex waterproof trousers
• Fleece – middle layer to be worn under down jacket when temperature drops
• Cotton t-shirts
• Long underwear
• Specialised walking socks – to provide comfort and warmth
• Sock liners – extra layer helps to prevent blisters
• Fleece socks – to wear at night
• Warm outer gloves – must be waterproof
• Inner gloves
• Fleece hat or balaclava
• 4 season sleeping bag – suitable to temperatures of up to -10°
• Sleeping bag liner – made of silk to keep me warm at night when getting rest is important
• Therma-a-rest self-inflating mattress
• Headtorch with spare bulb/batteries – some trekking is done at night so this is invaluable
• Sun cap
• Sunglasses with side-protection
• Pocket knife/multi-tool
• Gaiters - external protective coverings for the boots, ankles and lower legs
• Platypus water carrier – flexible water carrier with drinking tube – fits into rucksack
• Trekking poles – adjustable length
• Deet – mosquito repellant
• Compeed – blister plasters