2010 TRAINING SCHEDULE (click here)
TRAINING TO DAY-HIKE GRAND CANYON RIM TO RIM
This may be the only adventure tour which includes the training. A specialized 8 month training course developed and presented by Coach Ron Gunn to prepare participants to achieve an endurance level of 10 to 13 HOF (hours on feet) while reverse mountaineering through the Grand Canyon. The course covers all aspects of training for hiking with a day-pack, reverse mountaineering and hiking at altitude including: proper dress, equipment, nutritional needs, proper hydration and safety concerns.
15 progressive overload hikes are planned throughout the 8 month training season at interesting venues. Each course is well marked and monitored. Course maps and water refill points are provided.
You will find this training useful for goals such as; vacations at other hike destinations, to simply get fit, stay fit, lose weight, and train for half or full marathon or other endurance race events.
TRULY A UNIQUE TRAINING OPPORTUNITY WITH A SEASONED AND VERY SUCCESSFUL TRACK COACH
Many of our participants are athletes who have run marathons and find this an interesting and rewarding challenge. Many are people who simply keep fit by walking, hiking or biking regularly. And some are of more modest fitness levels.
It is not necessary to do an extreme hike to enjoy this trip. There are hikes planned for all levels of fitness. So it is an ideal trip for couples with different athletic skills. You both can have a challenge or not, and enjoy this experience. We encourage couples to train each at their own level with others in the group hiking at their pace so that each will get the best benefit from the training course. Hiking-buddies of the same pace often develop lasting friendships.
Everyone will find their own challenge in the Coach's training which will surely bring them to a new personal best. From ages 14 to 84 our previous trip participants have found great reward for their respective efforts on this unique adventure.
HOF (Hours On Feet) is the most significant factor. Coach Gunn created the term HOF as the primary training tool and measuring stick for successful preparation for the Grand Canyon Rim to Rim hike.
This is a proven system that will take even someone of moderate athletic ability to the level of fitness required. Coach Gunn was the Athletic Director at SMC (Southwestern Michigan College) for over 40 years and has trained 136 collegiate All-Americans and eight NJCAA national championship teams track teams, has trained hundreds of adults to successful completion of a marathon, and he created the Extreme Sports program at SMC.
INFORMATION: Who is Coach Gunn?
MORE ABOUT SMC: Extreme Sports Program
Click Photo Gallery to see photos from previous training hikes.
Nearly half will return to do this trip again and some returned just to train again with us. Such have they been touched by this unique and life changing experience. The end result of this training may seem impossible for some to imagine, however the steps are manageable. Beginning with a modest 6 mile hike you will build strength over eight months to complete the final test hike of 27.4 miles and surprisingly with enough gas left in the tank to celebrate your victory - you will then be ready to day-hike through her majesty the Grand Canyon.
Yes, the destination is fantastic but the journey is too; It stands on its own merit. The training hike venues vary and are always interesting. Somehow Coach Gunn has managed to find some incredible venues right in our own back yard. Lightly traveled side roads, often not paved. Picturesque trails through wooded groves and grassy meadows. Stories abound of wild creatures our hikers have surprised; wild turkey, deer, fox and squirrel of every color. Leave your iPod at home, there's always a natural concert playing in high fidelity. You will fondly remember your time on these trails!