How fit do you need to be to climb Mount Toubkal
How Fit Do You Need To Be To Climb Mount Toubkal?
Planning to visit and explore Mount Toubkal soon? Well, you might want to stop and remember that you can’t go and climb itjust because you want to. It’s understandable if you want to check something off your long-time bucket list but you can’t do so out of whim. Many climbers ask this question: how fit do you need to be to climb Mount Toubkal?
Toubkal might not be as challenging or treacherous as other lofty peaks in the world, but it is still a mountain nonetheless. What does it mean for you, then? It only means that you have to be in tiptop condition for you to reach the top!
For Casual Hikers: Basic Fitness is Enough
Do you go on hikes now and then and you have at least basic fitness level? If yes, you can expect to finish the trek to peak of Toubkal as long as you prepare beforehand.
Most of those who take on the challenge aren’t necessarily athletes but it would be of great help if you got a good level of leg strength and cardiovascular fitness.
You also shouldn’t have any issues talking on a steep terrain every day for 5 to 6 hours since this is the standard timeframe for ascending the mountain.
Your pre-hike training should include brisk walking or regular hiking, possibly on a hilly or uneven terrain to develop your endurance. You can also strengthen your core and legs, the main muscles you will be needing the most during your climb, by doing some lounges, squats, and stair climbs.
For a More Comfortable Hike: Intermediate Fitness is Recommended
Have you always been pursuing an active lifestyle made up of running, cycling, swimming, or going to the gym a few times a week? If that’s the case, you’ll likely experience some challenge when climbing Mount Toubkal but it will still be manageable.
You can also develop your endurance with regular cardio while balance and leg strength training can save your muscles and joints from the usual strain during a steep and long descent.
Hikers with intermediate fitness levels will also have an easier time adjusting to the mountain’s altitude. The levels of oxygen experience a significant decrease as you go higher. People with stronger cardiovascular systems won’t have any issues adapting to the change.
For a More Fun Trek: High Fitness is a Must
Even though it isn’t mandatory to have a high fitness level to climb Toubkal, it will add more fun and enjoyment to your trek. If you’re a seasoned mountaineer or trekker who often goes on climbs or hikes for several days at an altitude, the hike will be a welcomed challenged for you.
Experienced adventurers can experience a sense of achievement after they trek the mountain. It offers a distinct balance of eye-catching scenery and exertion without being too technical.
Hikers who are also used to trekking high altitudes will also be more knowledgeable about pacing themselves and having an efficient management of their energy levels. These pros are also less prone to experiencing muscle soreness, fatigued, and altitude sickness. This lets them enjoy the entire trek without having to push themselves to reach the peak.
Climbing Mount Toubkal wouldn’t be impossible for anyone with a moderate fitness level. As long as you’re physically prepared, you can get to the peak in no time!