Training for Mera Peak

There is specific training you need to be doing for your Mera Peak expedition. I have climbed Everest and Mera Peak 6 times and I can assure you need to be training for Mera peak months in advance. We believe you need to take a scientific approach to training and following a step by step approach. We are here to advise you on the best way to prepare for this amazing expedition in Nepal. Check out our unique Mera Peak itinerary and upcoming trips.

Acclimatization is Critical for Success on Mera Peak

When it comes to high altitude adventures, the best advice I can offer is simple: the more days spent acclimatizing, the better. Including extra acclimatization days in your itinerary is essential for your success and safety. On our trips, we ensure you have the best acclimatization program and itinerary in place.

We don’t attempt the summit of Mera Peak until day 13 at the earliest, which is the optimal approach for climbers. Training is extremely important, but without the right acclimatization schedule, your efforts may be in vain. Be informed and be prepared!

Off the Beaten Path

Firstly, we follow an old trade route through the Himalayan foothills getting you into more remote part of the Himalayas. This trail offers more acclimatization before approaching Khote and the main route to Mera Peak. Our pace, and route offer additional acclimatization and conditioning as you approach Mera.

Our itinerary includes three nights in Khare at 4,950m (16,240 feet) and two nights at Mera Peak Base Camp at 5,350m (17,552 feet). Most trips skip this crucial acclimatization, but they are vital for your safety and success.

Additionally, we use High Camp at 5,800m (19,028 feet). Our comprehensive plan includes ample acclimatization days, time to adjust the itinerary for bad weather, and opportunities for additional summit attempts. Trust our expertise to guide you to the top with confidence. We know what it takes to maximize your chances of success.

Do Not Underestimate the Preparation Needed for Mera Peak

Preparing for Mera Peak requires more than just enthusiasm; it demands thorough preparation and commitment. To conquer this Himalayan giant, you must be in excellent health, fully trained, and mentally ready for 18-20 days in the mountain wilderness. We strongly recommend having previous high altitude trekking experience, ideally above 5,000m (16,404 feet) before attempting Mera peak.

We have compiled all our essential Mera Peak resources in one location to guide you on your journey. If you’re unfamiliar with how your body reacts to low oxygen levels, reconsider undertaking a Mera Peak expedition. Understanding your body’s response to high altitudes is crucial before committing to this challenging adventure.

For personalized advice and to ensure you’re truly ready, chat with our experienced team before signing up for a Mera Peak climb.

Long Days Hiking and Daily Gym Work: Essential for Mera Peak Training

To successfully conquer Mera Peak, you need a targeted training regimen. Firstly, focus on hiking up and down hills, as you’ll be doing this in low oxygen environments for days on end. Read more about training for the downhill.

You will also need to carry approximately 6 kg (13 lbs) each day on the trail. On any given day, you’ll be loaded with 2-3 liters of water, rain gear, layers, camera, sun cream, and snacks. As you ascend higher, you’ll need to carry additional gear such as gloves, a down jacket, a fleece, a warm hat, crampons, a harness, and an ice axe.

To prepare, we recommend gradually building up to carrying 12 kg (26 lbs). You need to be comfortable doing 1,000m (3,280 feet) ascents and descents on back-to-back days with a weighted backpack before embarking on this trek and climb.

You also need to incorporate daily gym work into your Mera Peak training routine to strengthen your endurance, stamina and leg strength, ensuring you’re well-equipped for the challenges ahead on your Mera Peak adventure.

Endurance and Leg Strength are Crucial for Mera Peak Success

To prepare for Mera Peak, you need to focus on two key elements: endurance and leg strength. Start by considering a fitness test to assess your current level. Your training should include a mix of cardio exercises aimed at increasing your lactic threshold, allowing you to perform at higher heart rates for longer periods. I spend most of my time training in Zone 2 and Zone 3. Excellent strength and conditioning are essential for a successful Mera Peak expedition.

Low oxygen environments reveal any weaknesses in the body, so developing a robust strength and conditioning program is crucial. We are happy to offer advice to help you understand the terrain so you can come fully prepared.

The route we use to reach Mera Peak involves significant elevation changes, particularly during the first six days leading to Khote. This section offers excellent acclimatization opportunities but requires navigating many steps up and down through forest trails. Proper preparation will ensure you can handle these challenges and enjoy a successful ascent.

Training for Downhill Trekking on Mera Peak

Training for downhill trekking is just as important as preparing for the ascent. The descent from Mera Peak can be strenuous on your knees and legs, so it’s crucial to incorporate specific downhill training into your regimen.

Focus on strengthening your quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves, as these muscles will bear the brunt of the impact. Incorporate exercises like lunges, step-downs, and eccentric squats into your routine.

Additionally, practice hiking downhill on uneven terrain to improve your balance and coordination. Building strength and stability will help prevent injuries and ensure you can handle the challenges of descending Mera Peak safely and comfortably.

Carry Weight in Your Training

You also need to build an endurance program that gets you training in a similar to the actual trail. Training with weighted back pack building up to carrying 12 kg/ 26 lbs is critical in this part of your training.

You will be walking up and down steps, steep trail, across and up and down a glacier, with heavier mountaineering boots with crampons on. You need to consider all elements of the trail and lack of oxygen while developing the correct training plan.

If you are going to be walking 4 to 8 and up to 14 hours a day you need to be training in a similar manor. As you get closer to your trip, it is important to get in some multi-day hiking.

Remember when hiking to build slowly, starting with 2/3 hours and build towards 6/8 hours if possible.

Build Endurance and get the Hours Into Your Legs

My recommendation is to training 5 days a week. Train on a stair master is best, you can add in training on a 30 degree incline treadmill to mix things up. Start with 4 days a week with minimal weight in your back pack 4kg/ 8/9 lbs. Doing a fitness test is a really good idea, as it is important to understand which specific heart rate training zones you need to be training in.

You should be doing most of your training in the endurance zone. Building from 45minutes a day up to 2 hours per day for 4 sessions. Slowly build up the level of stress you inflect on your body. You then need an longer endurance session once per week and a day or two off to rest and recover.

This longer endurance session is best completed up and down hills with weight on your back in very specific heart rates. If you have no access to hills you should consider a long bike ride with resistance, or in the gym for 3+ hours.

We can help you figure this one out. You should be looking at building from 6 to 12+ hours of training per week. You should building up over a 6 month period. Don’t forget to build up your leg strength with some weight training developing your quads, calves, and core. In the last 2 months you should consider adding in interval training while you are still doing the endurance training building up the weight you are carrying.

Do Not Underestimate This Trek and Climb

Embarking on the Mera Peak trek and climb is a journey of a lifetime, one meant to be savored and enjoyed. However, do not underestimate the demands of this adventure. Thorough preparation is key to maximizing your performance and ensuring a memorable experience.

The better prepared you are, the more you’ll be able to embrace the challenges and relish the triumphs of this extraordinary climb. Start your training now to make the most of your Mera Peak expedition!

Enhance Your Mera Peak Adventure with a Mountaineering Course

Before embarking on your Mera Peak expedition, consider enrolling in an introduction to mountaineering course in Scotland or Colorado. Gaining competence in using crampons, ice axes, and moving efficiently on snow and ice will significantly boost your chances of success.

These skills not only enhance your performance but also add a vital layer of safety to your adventure. By mastering these essential techniques, you’ll be better prepared to tackle the challenges of Mera Peak, ensuring a safer and more rewarding experience. Join a mountaineering course today and set yourself up for success on Mera Peak!