Physical Preparation for Long Trip

**The Last Lion** · #1 28 Jun 2005

Hey everybody,

How important do you think it is to be physically fit before a long trip, as far as physical stamina, working out is concerned. I've been running quite a lot, don't know if that is valuable to mitigate fatigue in a long trip.

Cheers,

The Last Lion

[This message has been edited by The Last Lion (edited 27 June 2005).]

**Steve Pickford** · #2 28 Jun 2005

I think a general good health i.e. immune system & teeth etc are as important if not more important than pure physical fitness.

However, I think preparing yourself physically can only be a good thing as long as it's not to the exclusion of any other sort of preparation.

[This message has been edited by Steve Pickford (edited 28 June 2005).]

**JamesCo** · #3 28 Jun 2005

I agree with Steve - general health is most important, i.e. obtain appropriate vaccines & any medications you require. As to fitness, I think a base is useful if you expect strenuous riding in such conditions as mud, sand, extreme heat or cold and very high altitude; if you're running quite a bit now then you'll be in better shape than 99% of overland bikers. Keep in mind that you will get 'bike-fit' after the first few days - the sore bum goes away, hands don't get numb easily, the right muscles stretch a bit and you'll find it no strain to ride long stretches. Your body will adapt to the environment it's in and your technical skill will improve to make riding easier overall.

IMHO jogging is the best way to keep up one's fitness while on the road, so pack the trainers. Continuing a weights routine is unrealistic.

Good luck,
James

**richardb** · #4 29 Jun 2005

yeah, I got a sore bum and some lower back pain in the first couple of weeks until I adjusted to sitting on the bike all day - then no problems.

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Richb
http://www.postmaster.co.uk/~richardbeaumont/60684/