One of the most common questions we get at Embark is how to train for a big trek or climb. As with any goals in life, it’s always best to attain a certain level of fitness by setting a series of mini goals so that the end goal doesn’t feel so far away. And by taking things one step at a time, we are also mentally preparing for how to face a mountain.

If you’re looking for more specific tips, adventX out of Seattle is a great resource. Rooted in outdoor adventure fitness, their mantra is “challenge by choice.” You set goals based not just on specific activities and areas of interest, but also on the level of effort you are able to (and want to) invest. Not surprising, the ultimate goal that drives adventX is in and of itself spot on: “a knowledge of movement, physiology, nutrition and training techniques that can be applied to your lifestyle in a way that ensures that fitness is a source of joy, health and balance for life.”

Regardless of how close you are to Seattle, check out the group’s fitness activities (which include a 10-week fitness challenge and endurance cross-training) here and specific event training (which includes a Fit 2 Climb program) here. Specifically, adventX helps clients prepare for a wide range of climbs, including Mount Rainier, Mount Baker, Mount Adams, Glacier Peak, Mount Shuksan, and beyond the Pacific Northwest any of the Seven summits: Kilimanjaro, Aconcagua, Carstensz, Mount McKinley (Denali), Mount Vinson, Mount Elbrus, and Mount Everest. Pricing info here.