How to Train for the John Muir Trail (Avoid These 3 Mistakes)

If you're planning to hike the John Muir Trail, this video breaks down exactly how to physically train for it—and the 3 biggest mistakes hikers make in their JMT training plan. Many assume they need to start running, but that's a fast track to injury, especially for beginners. Instead, learn how to train for the John Muir Trail the right way with a smart approach to strength training, real-terrain hiking practice, and sustainable fitness. After completing a 230-mile JMT thru-hike with my teenage son, I’ve seen what actually works to prepare your body for the elevation gain, long days, and rugged terrain. Whether you’re creating a backpacking training plan for beginners or refining your JMT fitness guide, this video will help you get in shape for the trail without burning out. ---------------------------------------------------------- Some of the links in this description are affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them. It helps support the channel at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support! My Gear: Thermarest Neoair Xlite NXT Max: https://amzn.to/4kLxv71 Trekology 2.0 Pillow: https://amzn.to/3FAbsjt TOAKS Titanium 750ml Pot: https://amzn.to/4kWEk5t TOAKS Titanium Long Handle Spoon: https://amzn.to/4ixredg BRS 3000t Ultralight Stove: https://amzn.to/4kUKbbr Swedish Cloth: https://amzn.to/4bSci72 BearVault BV500 Canister: https://amzn.to/4ixvF7K Katadyn BeFree 1.0L Water Filter: https://amzn.to/3FAbOGP Bogler Ultralight Trowel: https://amzn.to/4iaU7Mr Summit Suds Powdered Soap: https://amzn.to/3FyXOgx Mini Snap Top Plastic Bottle (for soap): https://amzn.to/3Fxz8VD Unpaste Toothpaste Tablets: https://amzn.to/3DUGIJh Mini Victorinox Classic Swiss Army Knife: https://amzn.to/41vFEUa Electronics: DJI Pocket Osmo 3: https://amzn.to/3QVjNRi Insta360 X4: https://amzn.to/3DMkvgN Nitecore Carbo 20000mAh Lightweight 2 Power Bank: https://amzn.to/3DXSVgi inCharge XL 6-in-1 Multi Charging Cable: https://amzn.to/41QdkMh Nitecore NU25 400 UL Ultra Lightweight Headlamp: https://amzn.to/41Ls2UI Garmin inReach Mini 2: https://amzn.to/4kAYVML Clothing: Outdoor Research Echo Sun Hoodie: https://amzn.to/4iay6gG Nike Men's Challenger Dri-fit 5" Lined Running Shorts: https://amzn.to/4kq1S2B Topo Athletic Pursuits: https://amzn.to/4i7MmXx ---------------------------------------------------------- Timestamps: 0:00 - Intro 0:49 - Mistake 1 2:52 - Mistake 2 3:55 - Mistake 3 5:18 - Training Plans 6:29 - The Plan 11:22 - Running Options 12:01 - Resistance Training 14:14 - Recovery 15:15 - Wrap Up ---------------------------------------------------------- #jmt #JohnMuirTrail #hiking