Training for hiking

[GoSharks]

Just because it is too heavy? What do you mean? Is it overtraining to do 75 for practice but then carry less when you go out on the trail?

If you want to train with a 75 pound load, get a pack that will support such a load properly. A pack with a frame carries much differently from a pack without a frame. The area around your hips should be 'hurting', not your shoulders.

I would not consider carrying a >10 pound load any serious amount of time without a proper backpack (meaning frame and hip belt).

 

[Lazarus52980]

An additional update. On the recomendation of GoSharks, I picked up a different backpack and I am pleased to say GoSharks could not have been more right. I picked up this pack from REI:

http://www.rei.com/product/809320/gregory-baltoro-65-pack


Wow! I have since worked my way back up with weight and am back to 75 lbs, but last night I did my first mile with 75 and it felt almost easy! I didn't want to push myself too hard right away, but I plan to try to do 2 miles tomorrow morning and to keep building from there.

Thank you to everyone for the great advice, and special thanks to GoSharks for the great advice.