There is not one trekker in the world who hasn’t heard about the Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek. In fact, it has always been every trekker’s favorite one. Trekkers from around the globe wish to undertake this challenging and fun EBC trek, and are looking forward to witness the magnificent Mount Everest standing right in front of their eyes.
Apart from everything else, the best part about EBC trek is – it is for everyone. You don’t have to be a professional trekker to go for the EBC trek. However, of course some experience and preparation will be needed. If you are planning to go for the EBC trek this year, here are some preparation tips to help you out.
First things first
Before you book yourself for an Everest base camp trek, understand what sort of experience you will need. Here is what you should know –
- You should know how to handle a 10 to 15 days long trek. Preferably you should have tried one in Himalayas before.
- You should have at least done 1 moderate to difficult level trek in Himalayas.
- You should have trekked in higher than 4500m to 5000m altitudes.
In addition to this, it is expected that you have sufficient first aid knowledge. Also, you must know how to use an ice axe, crampons, and climbing boots. Ideally, you must undertake extensive training, should increase your strength and endurance and keep yourself physically as well as mentally prepared.
Preparing yourself physically for EBC trek
Increase your strength:
Keep in mind, you will be spending 2 weeks in the mountains trekking. Therefore, you must ensure that you have strong legs which will hold and support you through all the ups and downs. There are multiple exercises which you can do to gradually increase your strength. Try doing – lunges, step ups, single leg skipping, squats, etc. Basically, work on your lower body.
Work on your stamina:
With strength you will need ample stamina if you wish to complete the EBC trek successfully. For this, try high intensity interval training (HIIT). HIIT workouts don’t require you to go on long walks, but instead go for the high intensity short ones. Basically, you will be pushing your body to a limit, and then allow it to cool down. Repeat this routine as much as you can.
If running is not your thing, you can even try sprints, burpees, jumping jacks, pendulum jumps, etc.
Go for a few hikes:
Again, you don’t have to go for something very intense, but just try to keep yourself in the hiking routine. However, choose a route which has both – downhill and uphill. Start with a smaller trek, and gradually increase the distance, time, and the load you are carrying.
Preparing yourself mentally for EBC trek
Firstly, understand that EBC trek is not an easy one. Yes, an amateur trekker can handle it, but only if he/she is mentally prepared for it. During the trek, you will be facing your fears and pushing yourself harder to reach the decided point. Your will power is the only thing which will keep you going. So, if and only if you are fully mentally prepared, go for EBC trek.
