Backcountry Hunting – Deringer

  • Base fitness protocol designed to prepare hunters to meet the physical demands of a 1-2 day, self supported, backcountry/big game hunting trip.
  • 6 weeks/30 sessions focusing on endurance, step-ups, and ruck based exercises.
  • Ideal for hunters new to strength training and those wanting a “jumpstart” for their hunting season.

$49.00

DESCRIPTION

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

This 6-week block of training is structured to build your lungs, trunk, leg and low back strength needed for a 3 to 8-mile (4.8-12.9 km) hunt over rugged terrain, with an elevation gain less than or equal to 1,500 feet (457 m). You won’t necessarily find any sort of technical hunting preparation; rather, the purpose here is to develop the functional strength and stamina necessary for hiking uphill and to sustain long-distance travel under load.

DISCLAIMER

The information presented in this work is by no way intended as medical advice or as a substitute for medical counseling. The information should be used in conjunction with the guidance and care of your physician. Consult your physician before beginning this program as you would with any other exercise or nutrition program. If you choose not to obtain the consent of your physician and/or work with your physician throughout the duration of your time using the recommendations in the program, you are agreeing to accept full responsibility for your actions.

By continuing with the program you recognize that despite all precautions on the part of Epoch Ascent, LLC, there are risks of injury or illness which can occur because of your use of the aforementioned information and you expressly assume such risks and waive, relinquish and release any claim which you may have against Epoch Ascent, LLC and its representatives, or its affiliates as a result of any future physical injury or illness incurred in connection with, or as a result of, the use or misuse of the program.

REQUIRED EQUIPMENT

To complete this program you'll need the following equipment:

  • Ruck or hunting pack loadable to 20% (or more) of your bodyweight
  • Stopwatch with countdown timer
  • Pull-up bar
  • 14-16” Step-up box or bench

Suggested equipment:

  • For some of the endurance based training sessions it would be useful to have cardio equipment such as vertical climbers, a Jacob’s ladder, and a sled or tire set up for dragging. Rowers, skiers, and assault bikes can be useful as well.

FAQs

How do I know if I am fit enough to start this protocol?

Whether you’re a novice, seasoned, or deconditioned hunter, the majority of the training in this protocol is scalable to your specific ability level. If you’re still not sure then try out the training under the “sample training” tab. If you successfully complete the training sessions then the weeks in this program shouldn’t be too difficult to complete.

How should I train if I cannot maintain a 5 on, 2 off schedule?

It is ideal that you train 5 days in a row with 2 full days off for rest. If you miss a session for some reason, avoid skipping ahead and start again where you left off and complete the sessions in order throughout the plan. If you miss more than a few days in a training week you should start that training week from the beginning in order to get the most out of the training cycle.

I could stand to lose a few pounds prior to my season. Will this protocol help me with that?

In addition to building hunting specific fitness, it is also designed to help hunters lose unnecessary fat mass as well. In order to see the best results, we suggest you pair this protocol with a healthy diet that suits your current lifestyle and level of discipline. See out FAQ page for some of our basic guidelines concerning nutrition.

Why is a 10# dumbbell or sledgehammer a part of the suggest equipment?

A dumbbell is a safe and functional substitute for a bow, rifle, or muzzleloader.

What type of training attire should I use?

For the endurance based sessions it is strongly recommended that you train in whatever hunting kit you will be using during your actual hunt (weather permitting). During your in-gym sessions you should wear whatever attire you find to be most appropriate for strength and high intensity training.

I have more questions, where can I have those answered?

Please email us at training@epochascent.com