#28 – The Art of Winging It

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man mountaineer climbing snow with ice axes

OK, so I get that this is a podcast about mountaineering training. But what if you just don't have enough time in the day to train by the book?

Should you wait until you retire or your baby goes to preschool?

Or should you wing it, even if you don't feel ready?

Friends, here's a secret.

As much as I bang on about training, I am also a big fan of doing things I don't feel ready for. It's actually been my secret weapon for living a more adventurous life.

So in today's episode, let's talk about the art of winging it and doing the thing you feel completely unprepared for.

Because the truth is, people surprise the crap out of themselves all the time.

Ready? Let's do this!

Links/Resources Mentioned

Episode Sneak Peek

  • [4:12] What it means to “wing it” in the mountain fitness world. My own experience with winging it and going on trips I wasn’t properly trained for. What it’s like hiking the Grand Canyon R2R2R undertrained.

  • [8:08] Why winging it can sometimes be a good idea. Going on adventures you don’t feel ready for is sometimes necessary and can greatly enrich your life.

  • [10:40] When to wing it and when to keep training. The importance of having an escape valve. How working with a guide service can help if you’re undertrained. Why it’s important to talk to your team/fellow travelers about your plans and preparation.

  • [13:31] Tips for completing hikes and climbs you feel undertrained for. The importance of planning and preparation. How to pace yourself for success. When to make the decision to turn around.

  • [18:46] What to do if you turn around. The importance of being in the arena, even when you get knocked around. How to conduct a “postmortem” and plan for your next attempt.

This episode is brought to you by Mountain Fit

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