I have often said that I will never fail because I didn't train enough!
Bruce Terry, Everest Base Camp, May 2019


Training is the first step toward success
Determination
Proper training is crucial for anyone aspiring to conquer the Seven Summits, the highest peaks on each continent. Success in mountaineering, particularly at such extreme elevations, relies on the investment of time dedicated to physical conditioning, technical skills, and mental preparation. Understanding the multifaceted nature of mountaineering training is essential for anyone looking to achieve this lofty goal.

Moreover, confidence is a vital asset in the context of the Seven Summits. Preparedness gained through rigorous training fosters self-assurance, allowing climbers to make informed decisions under pressure. This mental toughness can be the difference between success and failure when faced with the unexpected challenges that climbing at high altitudes typically presents.
Endurance is particularly critical in mountaineering, as climbers often face long days on the mountain amidst unpredictable weather conditions. A well-structured training regimen focusing on building stamina—like long hikes with a weighted backpack—can prepare climbers for the challenges they will face. This endurance training not only helps in completing climbs but also enhances overall performance in high-stakes environments.
The journey to climbing the Seven Summits requires a huge time commitment and some sacrifices. When training for a climb I spent several hours every workday at the gym or on the trail and was a semi-absentee husband and father on the weekends as I hiked the hills at Valley Forge Park over and over for 5 or 6 hours a day. I knew that by allocating sufficient time and focusing on the right types of training I could greatly enhance my chances of achieving this feat, one summit at a time.
My training activities include:
- Weight training upper and lower body twice per week
- Hiking with a weighted pack 1-2 hrs on the Stairclimber or 3+ hours outside
- Biking outdoors on the weekends 4+ hours
- Running 1+ hours on the treadmill or outside
Training

Training for South Pole
I spent many hours pulling tires on the Schyukill River Trail
Training for Denali
I spent the fall and winter of 2013/2014 pulling a child trailer and carrying a 50lb backpack around Valley Forge Park, The Wissohickon and Ridley Creek State Park
Indoor Stair Climbing
October 2016. I was at a dental convention in Denver. 34 story hotel with stairwell. I loaded my backpack with ice and did ten trips up and down. People that saw me thought I was crazy. You decide.