Most Backpackers Are Training The Wrong Way (Are You?!)

Most backpackers train hard for long trails — but many focus on the wrong things. In this video, I break down the common training mistakes hikers make when preparing for long-distance trails and what actually matters instead. From overemphasizing cardio and gym workouts to underestimating durability, consistency, and real trail simulation, this is about aligning your training with what the trail truly demands. Whether you’re planning your first thru-hike or refining your preparation for a big backpacking season, this video will help you train smarter, stay healthier, and hike stronger for the long haul. ---------------------------------------------------------- P.S. 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! ---------------------------------------------------------- Ways to Support the Channel: Venmo: @colbyonthetrail ---------------------------------------------------------- Discount Codes: Tell Your Trail 12% off: ColbyontheTrail12 https://tellyourtrail.com/?ref=ColbyontheTrail12 Hilltop Packs 10% off: COLBYONTHETRAIL https://hilltoppacks.com/colbyonthetrail Backcountry Foodie 20% off: COLBYONTHETRAIL https://backcountryfoodie.com/aff/73/ ---------------------------------------------------------- My Favorite Gear: Sleeping Pad: https://amzn.to/4kLxv71 Titanium 750ml Pot: https://amzn.to/4kWEk5t Ultralight Stove: https://amzn.to/4kUKbbr Water Filter: https://amzn.to/4o45itc Ultralight Trowel: https://amzn.to/4iaU7Mr Summit Suds Powdered Soap: https://amzn.to/3FyXOgx Unpaste Toothpaste Tablets: https://amzn.to/3DUGIJh Outdoor Research Echo Sun Hoodie: https://amzn.to/4iay6gG Nike Men's Challenger Dri-fit 5" Lined Running Shorts: https://amzn.to/4kq1S2B Garmin inReach Mini 2: https://amzn.to/4kAYVML inCharge XL 6-in-1 Multi Charging Cable: https://amzn.to/41QdkMh Camera Gear: Camera Gear: DJI Pocket Osmo 3: https://amzn.to/3QVjNRi DJI Osmo Action 6 : https://amzn.to/4axDqtE Insta360 X5: https://amzn.to/4qm7qOw Sony A6700: https://amzn.to/4qkKwa5 Sony G Master 15mm f1.4 Lens: https://amzn.to/4b7pyX9 ---------------------------------------------------------- Timestamps: 0:00 – Welcome 1:12 – What Backpackers Focus on First (and Why) 2:40 – What Long Trails Actually Demand 3:58 – Where Training Breaks Down 5:02 – Training Priorities That Matter Less Than You Think 6:08 – What Actually Matters in Backpacking Training 9:03 – What Surprised Me Most After Long Trails 10:18 – Key Training Takeaways 10:55 – Final Thoughts on Training ---------------------------------------------------------- #hiking #thruhiking #backpacking