Training for the Tropics

Many travelers will incorporate some type of adventure into their trop and try to be fit prior to their vacation.

When planning to undertake a new endeavour – kayaking, scuba diving, skiing, or mountain climbing it really is important to have the training, fitness and the time to be properly to the activity.

There are many wonderful experiences to try abroad that you simply can't do in Winnipeg. Fortunately, we have a large amount of enthusiasts for many sports disciplines at Sport Manitoba (400 Main St.) Acting as an umbrella for many activities, Manitobans can be initiated into new activities locally so they will really enjoy their holidays. (www.sportmanitoba.ca)

Travelers can try to simulate their new destination while at home.

I know of some people who put rocks into backpacks or walked up and down the stairs at the Richardson building to simulate mountaineering.

They of course are simulations and not quite equal to field conditions.

For those embarking on something completely new we suggest travelers with specific agendas and goals hire a personal trainer.

A personal trainer can objectively determine a client's present and goal fitness levels, and prescribe a realistic training program.

This will maximize their pre trip fitness but of course will still have to go slow at first when they arrive at their destination

The Manitoba Fitness Council regulates personal trainers and you can locate one through their website ( www.manitobafitnesscouncil.ca ).

Sport people must also realize that they may need to acclimate to their new environment. Moving into a totally different climate (severe heat, severe cold, humidity, altitude or pollution) will always take some time getting used to.

Travelers still need a period from a few days to 2 weeks to be truly adjusted to their destination weather.

When exposed to sudden heat and humidity of Africa a body person undergoes some adaptive changes in their sweat and kidney function to maintain homeostasis.

Likewise after flying to Tibet a new traveler will be short of breath and tired until their body appropriately rests and responds to the new environment.

The key to adaptation in all new environs is to go slowly until you do fit in.

This is often difficult for young healthy adults who want to do a lot.

That is always important to budget enough time into a vacation so that travelers don t rush and try to do something they aren't prepared for.

We see travelers from Mt Kilimanjaro who return exhausted and sick after being evacuated from the peak. Although they trained and prepared well their bodies just weren't ready for the rushed acute ascent and altitude.

Other travelers who pay extra to have a few extra days at the lower rest huts on “Kili” instead of rushing for the summit do much better.

When preparing for adventure travel make sure the whole package really is a good match for what you are willing to spend in money, training and time.