On recent back-to-back traverses through British Columbia’s Coast Range, I was reminded of this firsthand. I slogged my 60-pound companion across dozens of glaciers, over steep mountain passes, and down long, technical descents. Even after a decade of sport-specific training and guiding experience, I felt the strain of the heavy pack: tight hips, tender shoulders, and the kind of fatigue that lingers for days.
In those moments deep in the pain cave, I wasn’t thinking about shaving off ounces. I was thinking about the only variable I could actually control: how I prepared.
This guide isn’t about gear hacks or the best ultralight sleep system. It’s about how to train your body to handle the weight you can’t avoid—through science-backed programming, smart progressions, and a better understanding of what your body is actually managing in the backcountry.
Let’s break down the numbers, unpack the risk factors, and show you exactly how to train for your next objective—whether it’s a multi-day trek, a glacier expedition, or your heaviest trip yet.