Training

Climbing Kilimanjaro is not a walk in the park. It’s also not Mt. Everest. So how do you train?

First, there is no technical climbing involved when climbing Kilimanjaro. This means you do not need ropes or rock climbing skills. But, you will be hiking uphill several miles each day with decreasing levels of oxygen. This makes cardio and endurance training essential.

We strongly encourage you to consult with your physician before registering for the climb. Talk you your doctor if you have any concerns, especially related to your heart, lungs and/or leg joints as this climb is physically demanding.

Once your doctor clears you to climb, it’s time to begin training. There are countless ways to approach training for your climb and the American Foundation for Children with AIDS does not endorse one training over another. Instead, we encourage you to do some research and create an exercise regimen that progressively builds your stamina and your cardio strength. Here are a couple links to get your research started.

http://www.ultimatekilimanjaro.com/preparation.htm

http://www.mountkilimanjaroguide.com/kilimanjaro-training.html

While we do not recommend one training over another we strongly encourage you to:

-          Hike often wearing the boots you will wear for your climb and progressively increase the length of your hikes. Include as much elevation as possible.

-          Hike wearing your day pack and build up to hiking with 15-25 lbs in your pack.