This episode covers why it's important to still do everything you can training-wise while dealing with an injury, from a fitness perspective, healing perspective, and psychological perspective. Some of the advice might surprise you.

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This episode gives you answers to great listener questions. Here they are as they sent them in:

1. I'd love to hear a podcast on training misconceptions, especially with this non-stop high output training being pushed by the big names in the hunting fitness space.

2. Assuming someone is fairly lean at a healthy weight but wants to try shaving off another 5-7 pounds, is there a training block during the year that it makes more sense to try and lose that body fat knowing it will take a calorie deficit and possibly impact energy for training?

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This is a QnA episode that covers two great conditioning questions for backcountry and mountain hunters.1. Should Zone 1 and 2 training be done at a steeper incline and slower speed?2. What should hunters do to build and maintain an aerobic base from year to year? How can they keep progressing when they've reached their maximum training time per week?(Article) Do You Know How Much Weight You Should Carry? (Includes link to FREE Pack Capacity Calculator)

During this episode, Todd gives you a detailed description of what types and amounts of training move the needle for hunters during early offseason training.

It includes:

-Types of strength training and amounts

-Aerobic conditioning (how much and when)

-How to know if you're ready to add more intense conditioning

-A breakdown of exactly how he's training his hunters right now

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The Hunter's Field Test

In this episode, Todd breaks down the proper use of lifting belts and straps, explaining when they are beneficial and how to use them correctly. He also shares practical advice on building grip strength, programming with reps and reserve, and developing core stability for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.

Key topics:

• The correct way to use a lifting belt: reinforce core, not replace it
• When to utilize a belt: primarily for heavy powerlifting sets above 85-90% of one-rep max
• Why hunters generally don't need lifting belts for their training routines
• Proper grip development: prioritizing double overhand grip and grip strength exercises
• How to incorporate straps: use for heavy reps when grip is limiting, but avoid over-reliance
• Avoiding crossover grip issues: alternate grips to prevent imbalances and hip problems
• Programing with reps and reserve: understanding how to gauge effort and fatigue
• Using feel and trial to develop an intuitive sense of effort and intensity
• The importance of developing core strength through functional lifts like front squats and deadlifts
• Practical considerations for grip strength in hunting-related activities

Unlock the key to sustainable endurance and faster recovery with zone two training—an essential for all hunters looking to optimize their performance and longevity. In this episode, Todd Bumgardner breaks down what zone two truly is, how to find your zones, and how to incorporate this philosophy into your training year-round.

• What is zone two and why it matters for hunters
• Physiological basics: aerobic vs anaerobic energy systems
• How to accurately determine your zone two using blood lactate or mathematical formulas
• Practical methods to train in zone two: heart rate, breath test, perceived exertion
• Adjusting zone two training based on recovery, stress, and fitness levels
• Why fat burning is crucial for long hunters and recovery
• Optimal volume and session length for maximum benefits
• How to progress from general to specific training as hunting season approaches
• The importance of load, terrain, and muscular endurance in zone two training
• Common mistakes and how to avoid them
• Action plan to build endurance efficiently

In this episode:

In this episode, Todd Bumgardner addresses various questions related to training for hunting, focusing on the importance of upper body strength, preparing for specific conditions like muddy terrain, and the use of trekking poles. He discusses the significance of incline training, load adjustments for long rucks, and how to address strength imbalances in archery. The conversation emphasizes a holistic approach to fitness that balances endurance and strength training for optimal performance in hunting and everyday activities.

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The Hunter's Field Test

In this episode, Todd Bumgardner discusses strength training specifically tailored for hunters, focusing on the best exercises, the importance of lifting heavy, and the role of muscle mass in performance and longevity. He emphasizes the need for relative strength, effective training methods, and the significance of maintaining muscle mass for injury prevention and overall health.

Free Mountain Hunting Readiness Assessment >> The Hunter's Field Test

In this episode, Todd Bumgardner discusses the Hunter Field Test, a physical assessment designed for hunters to evaluate their readiness for the hunting season. He explains the importance of work capacity, movement capacity, and relative strength, and how these elements contribute to a hunter's efficiency and performance. The conversation covers various tests included in the assessment, such as mobility tests, strength tests, and conditioning tests, emphasizing the need for proper sequencing and implementation of these tests to achieve accurate results. Todd also hints at an upcoming guide that will provide comprehensive training strategies for uphill and downhill hunting.

Click the link to download a FREE copy of The Hunter's Field Test >>> The Hunter's Field Test

In this episode of the Human Predator Pack Mule podcast, Todd Bumgardner discusses high intensity continuous training and its application for hunters. He emphasizes the importance of aerobic conditioning over high intensity training for effective hunting preparation. Todd answers listener questions about training methods, heart rate monitoring, and the balance between aerobic and anaerobic conditioning, providing insights into how to optimize fitness for hunting activities.

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