If you ask most of our hunting guides for their advice on being prepared for your next Wyoming hunt, it usually boils down to two things. First, practice with your weapon. And second, do your best to get in shape.
For more about shooting, check out our previous article here. But here, we want to take a look at why it’s so important to tackle some physical conditioning before your next Wyoming hunt – or any western hunt for that matter.
There’s still plenty of time before next fall. Here’s why you shouldn’t wait to get started.
WHY CONDITIONING MATTERS
You hear it all the time. But why is getting in shape so important for a western, big game hunt? When you’re hunting this big, western country, you can have the best gear. You can be an excellent marksman. You can even have the best glass and locate more game. But if you can’t move quickly enough to get within range and get set up for a shot, the rest doesn’t matter.
Where we hunt in Wyoming, whether it’s antelope, mule deer or elk, hunters are often required to traverse rugged terrain for long distances. Can you still do it if you’re out of shape? Sure, we can make it happen. But will the hunt be more fun if you’re in the best possible shape? Of course! When you’re feeling good, the entire experience is so much more enjoyable.
Here are three tips to getting in shape for your fall hunting adventures….
1. START TRAINING EARLY
Spring has only just arrived, and you have months to prepare for hunting season. That should be a motivation to get started now, not a reason to procrastinate!
Time is on your side now. But that won’t be the case later this summer. Rather than trying to rush your workouts and risk injury at the last minute, start now and give yourself time. Start getting your heart rate up for at least 20 minutes a day. Over the next several months, do your best to increase both the length and the intensity of your workouts.
2. MAKE A PLAN
Set goals and make a plan. It’s easy to burn out or give up in the first few weeks. In order to stick with it, make sure you set goals that are realistic based on your schedule and lifestyle.
If you need help getting started, visit your local gym. Sign up for a class to give you some accountability, or ask a trainer to help you develop a consistent workout plan. Ideally, you’ll want a plan that includes both strength training and cardio exercises.
3. GET OUTDOORS
The gym is a great place to put your plan into action. But don’t forget to take your workouts outside whenever possible. Find a nearby trail with a steep incline, or use the local stadium stairs. Load up your hunting pack with a little weight, and start climbing!
As we get closer to hunting season, do these workouts in your hunting boots. Add your binocular harness and even your hunting clothes. In addition to getting in shape, this will help you iron out any wrinkles in your gear before your big hunt.
Finally, add some mini cardio to your shooting routine. The next time you’re at the range, do a quick sprint or a set of burpees, then quickly get into position to shoot. We find ourselves in many situations when we must hurry up and then shoot. This is a great addition to your training routine.
ENJOY YOUR HUNT
When hunting season arrives, take confidence in the fact that you’ll be able to put a stalk on a bedded buck, or move in quickly on a bugling bull elk. Rather than cursing your burning lungs and legs, you’ll be able to enjoy the excitement that’s out in front of you.
Thanks for your interest in Table Mountain Outfitters! Check out the rest of our website for more information on our antelope hunts, elk hunts, mule deer hunts in Wyoming. If you’d like to ask about availability or any specifics, please give us a call at 307-632-6352 or contact us online.
