Just finished a 4 mile ruck march with mild hills. Feel ok. Stronger than a couple of weeks ago.
My philosophy of training for old guys: Train consistently without straining and with some rest. Cannot train like a 40 year old. No, "twice-a-days" anymore, like we used to do before missions. I'm 64. Have never had a major injury to my legs, just a couple of sprains. So, I don't have to deal with scar tissue that many have. My other philosopy is: Failing to train is the same as planning to fail. So, gotta do it, even if I have to lose sleep.
Plan this week is 4 mile ruck march every other day and 5 miles walking the other days. One day off if legs start hurting more. It will be the last training before the AT section walk.
ENTRY BY STAN AFTER HIKE: OK, time to eat some crow here. I did not train well. Not long enough and not hard enough. My heart, lungs, and legs were not ready. To do the AT in the Shenandoah, you have to do multiple 7-800 foot climbs daily. That's a 70 story building carrying 40-50 pounds. On sketchy footing. So, you either have to find a tall, steep hill to train on or practice in something like a football stadium and carry a heavy pack up those stairs. Again and again! I thought I could do it with a moderate amount of fitness training. I was wrong. So, if you are thinking of hiking the AT, prepare well and don't underestimate its difficulty.
Internal versus External Frame Backpacks. This has long been a debate. I favor external frame, so that is what I'll carry. I think Johnny uses an internal frame pack, will be interesting to learn why. OK, why am I so "old school" and prefer an external frame. After all, internal frame rucks are sleeker and sexier. OK, why external frame for me?
1. Load carry. For me, it carries the load better, transfers the load to my hips, and allows me to stand up straighter. Have owned internal frame packs and, for me, they are like carrying a large dead deer by holding onto its front quarters. Must be packed almost perfectly. If you look at someone carrying an internal frame pack, they are often hunched over.
2. Cooling. The external frame keeps the pack off your back and allows better air flow.
3. Sleeping and Shelter carry. An external frame usually allows the hiker to carry this stuff in a stuff sack strapped to the bottom of the frame. (or top, if you like.)
4. More versatile. If you have to add something to the pack, it is fairly easy to use bungees, paracord, or straps to attach it to the very accessible external frame. Stuff often happens and you have to adjust out in the bush.
5. Proven. The external frame, sometimes called a Kelty (a good brand name) has been around for a very long time. Many, many internal frame packs are sold. Many of them sit in closets. But, if you look at people hiking the AT today, a very large number carry external frames. They simply work.
See articles below for other opinions:
http://www.backpacker.com/gear/experts/ask-kristin/why-internal-frame-backpacks/
http://militarybackpackguide.com/internal-vs-external-frame-backpack/
Please add your comments/opinions below.
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