Explore every episode of the podcast Train Smarter Hunt Longer

Article:

How Hunters Should Train in July

Free Training Guide for Hunters Over 50:

How to Keep Hunting Hard After 50

Mike Lardy spent 40 years training retrievers. He's also a lifelong hunter who spends his retirement hunting upland and waterfowl all over the U.S. He shares some wisdom on dog selection, training, and tells his story of getting into dog training.

Free Training Guide for Hunter's Over 50:

How to Keep Hunting Hard After 50

Two things give us confidence in the field:

1. Knowing we've done the work.

2. Hitting benchmarks that tell us each aspect of our hunting fitness is good to go.

During this episode, you'll learn important aerobic, muscular endurance, and pack weight metrics to measure against your current hunting fitness.

If you can hit them before hunting season, you'll know you're ready to go.

Want the confidence of knowing what aspects of your fitness need the most attention between now and hunting season?

Sign up for the Preseason Backcountry Readiness Assessment.

You'll test:

• Your aerobic capacity
• Muscular endurance
• Mobility
• Strength

At the end you get a detailed report that gives you clarity on the best way for you to train between now and hunting season.

Click the link below to sign up:

Preseason Backcountry Readiness Assessment

Read the article:

How Many Days per Week Should Hunters Train with Their Packs?

A lot of hunters worry that missing a workout will make them lose all of their progress. That's not the case. But there is a point when missing workouts becomes a big problem. This episode covers both of those situations and everything in between.

Questions answered:

1. What happens if you miss a workout?

2. What if you often miss one workout per week?

3. If you have to miss a workout, how do you choose which one to miss?

4. What happens if you miss strength workouts vs aerobic workouts?

5. What should you do if you miss two or three workouts in one week?

6. What happens physiologically when you miss workouts over a periods of weeks or months?

7. How should you approach training when coming off of an injury?

Free Hunting Fitness Assessment:

The Hunter's Field Test

The hunting preseason has started, and it's a confusing time for a lot of hunters. It's often panic time because hunters feel like they're playing catch up, and it causes them to make some poor training decisions. We'll help you avoid those with this episode of the podcast, starting with an answer to the question: What matters right now? Then we'll walk through the exact process we're using to get our members ready for hunting season.

Article:

How Should Hunters Train in June?

Backcountry Ready Sign up:

Backcountry Ready

JM Prewitt is a family man, the founder and CEO of Cohesion Co, and a hunter. He's also a good friend and Packmule Apex client. We sat down in his trophy room to tell hunting stories and talk a little bit about hunting's gray areas and what we think about them.

Hunters often walk themselves into hip, knee, and back pain. This episode covers simple ways to keep that from happening.

I've been checking out the forums, and a lot of hunters ask about how much weight to ruck with and how to combine ruck training with strength training and other conditioning.

So, I answer those questions in this episode. I also lay out how to progress your ruck training and offer some standards to know if you're where you need to be before the season.

The article below includes a detailed rucking progression.

How to Train for a Dall Sheep Hunt in the Northwest Territories

*Note: We tried new editing software for this podcast and the video ended up wonky. I apologize for that. I wanted to get the info out to you, so I published it anyway.

Late Offseason training continues!

This episode breaks down the most important aspects of strength, muscular endurance, and conditioning that hunters should focus on in May to set themselves up for success in the preseason.

Free Hunting Fitness Assessment: The Hunter's Field Test

Backcountry Ready Sign up: Backcountry Ready

This QnA podcast covers:

-Ancestral vs Modern Fueling

-What mindset to have when you miss a workout

-The Packmule Vision for the next 3 to 5 years

-Some of my top book recommendations

Free Hunting Fitness Assessment:

The Hunter's Field Test

I'm on the road and doing a QnA podcast series from the truck. During this episode, I answer two questions:

1. Do you need a dedicated stretch day to fix tight hips caused by rucking?

2. What's the biggest thing about nutrition I've changed my mind on in the past 5 years?

Links mentioned during the episode:

Video: Table Lift Exercise

Article: Fueling for Long Rucks, Runs, and Hikes

It's late offseason time, folks. This episode outlines the most important aspects of training hunters need to do in April to set themselves up for success in the summer.

Free Hunting Fitness Assessment: The Hunter's Field Test

You're Fine. You're Just Uncomfortable Caribou Shirt

Muscular endurance is the most misunderstood aspect of training for hunting.

In this episode, you'll get the science of muscular endurance, as well as practical training methods, tactics, and exercises to improve your muscular endurance for mountain hunting.

We'll also cover the most neglected, but important, aspects of muscular endurance training for mountain hunters.

Article: How to Develop Muscular Endurance for Mountain Hunting

Know How Much Weight You Can Carry: Pack Capacity Calculator

"You're Fine. You're Just Uncomfortable." Chukar Shirt

I chat with Tristan Corbett, a life-long New Zealand hunter, and creator of HuntMateNZ, an app loaded with education, guidance, and hunting maps that point hunters in the right direction to find the game they're after.

Tristan tells his story of growing up as a hunter in New Zealand and how that led him to create HuntMateNZ.

He also walks through the details of how easy and affordable it is for Americans to DIY hunt New Zealand's amazing animals on their incredible amounts of public land.

He covers:

-Importing firearms

-Securing a hunting permit

-Travel

-Where the different animals are located in New Zealand

-The many different types of hunting adventures you can have on New Zealand's varied terrain

Below is the link to the HuntMateNZ website:

HuntMateNZ

The HuntMateNZ app is free to download in the iOS app store and for Android

In this QnA episode, I answer 3 listener questions:

1. How should you program sled training for hunting?

2. What mobility training should you do outside of the gym?

3. What's the most functional deadlift for hunting, hex bar or barbell?

Mobility routine mentioned in the episode at the link below:

Morning CARs Routine

Free Pack Capacity Calculator at the link below:

Pack Capacity Calculator

The title nails it for this one. I discuss how hunters should train in March. And to do that, I lay out Phase 3 of our Early Offseason Training block.

I cover:

-What kind of strength training and how much?

-Adding in higher intensity conditioning

-Continuing to build an aerobic base

-Including rucking and incline training

Please support my friend Casey Bard's fight against stage IV colorectal cancer by heading to his website and grabbing some merch at the link below:

caseybard.com

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.

Download a Free copy of our Packmule Capacity Calculator at the link below:

Pack Capacity Calculator

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?

Download a FREE Copy of our Pack Capacity Calculator at the link below:

Free Download >>> Pack Capacity Calculator

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

Free Hunting Fitness Assessment:

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.

Click the link below to download The Hunter's Field Test for Free:

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.

Download a FREE copy of our most popular training guide, 5 Biggest Backcountry Training Mistakes

In this QnA episode, Todd answers two great questions on how to approach workout nutrition and whether or not you should push to hunting "game speed" while scouting. He also gives an update on the new HPPM training guide, The Hunter's Guide to Uphill and Downhill Training.

Click the link below to download a FREE copy of our most popular training guide 5 Biggest Backcountry Training Mistakes

In this engaging conversation, Todd and Jordan reconnect and share their experiences in bird hunting, discussing the importance of training and bonding with bird dogs. They delve into the significance of long-duration exercise for cardiovascular health and the adaptations that occur with consistent low-intensity workouts. The discussion also covers the mechanics of endurance training, the necessity of building tissue tolerance, and how to define long-duration exercise. They emphasize the importance of progression in endurance training and the need to listen to one's body during workouts. In this conversation, Todd Bumgardner and Jordan discuss various aspects of training for endurance, particularly in the context of preparing for hunting. They emphasize the importance of balancing different training modalities, understanding fatigue, and using data to guide training decisions. Nutrition and recovery strategies are also highlighted, along with the significance of setting appropriate training goals based on individual needs.

Click the link below to download a FREE copy of our most popular training guide:

5 Biggest Backcountry Training Mistakes: And How to Avoid Them

In this episode, Todd Bumgardner re-answers a question because he just didn't think he did a good enough job the first time around. He covers why some folks manage exercising at a high heart rate even when it seems like they shouldn't be able to. He also explains some basics about human energy physiology and conditioning energy systems.

Click the link to download a FREE copy of our most popular training manual, 5 Biggest Backcountry Training Mistakes: And How to Avoid Them

In this episode of the Human Predator Pack Mule podcast, Todd Bumgardner addresses three main questions regarding fitness and preparation for hunting. He discusses the effectiveness of burpees in training, the relationship between aerobic capacity and heart rate maintenance, and shares his personal layering system for late October mountain hunts. Todd emphasizes the importance of choosing exercises wisely based on their value and economy, and he provides practical advice for hunters looking to optimize their training and gear.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview of Topics

01:28 The Value of Burpees in Training

06:54 Aerobic Capacity vs. Anaerobic Training

12:31 Layering System for Mountain Hunts

Download a free copy of our most popular training guide at the link: 5 Biggest Backcountry Training Mistakes

In this episode, Todd Bumgardner addresses key questions related to strength training while in a caloric deficit, the effects of sleep deprivation on performance, and how to safely return to training after an illness. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining muscle mass through strength training, ensuring adequate protein intake, and managing caloric deficits wisely. Todd also discusses the futility of training for sleep deprivation and offers practical advice for easing back into training post-illness. The episode concludes with a lighthearted Q&A segment.

Takeaways

• Strength training is crucial in a caloric deficit to maintain muscle mass.
• Adequate protein intake is essential for recovery and muscle maintenance.
• Avoid large caloric deficits; a moderate approach is more effective.
• Sleep deprivation training is not beneficial and can harm overall performance.
• Returning to training after illness should be gradual and mindful of energy levels.
• Leave resources in the tank after workouts to aid recovery.
• Focus on light workouts initially when coming back from illness.
• Expectations can hinder recovery; listen to your body instead.
• Sleep is vital for performance; prioritize it year-round.
• Engage in lighthearted challenges but know your limits.

Download a free copy of our training guide 5 Biggest Backcountry Training Mistakes: And How to Avoid Them at the link below:

5 Biggest Backcountry Training Mistakes

In this conversation, Todd Bumgardner and Trey Sperring discuss the intricacies of mountain hunting, focusing on the operations of Neal and Brownlee, a booking agency specializing in big game hunts. They delve into the client experience, the importance of building relationships with outfitters, and the challenges of managing expectations. Trey shares his personal journey during a blue sheep hunt in Nepal, highlighting the cultural insights and the physical demands of high-altitude hunting. The discussion emphasizes the value of international hunts and the unique experiences they offer. In this engaging conversation, Trey Sperring and Todd Bumgardner explore the multifaceted world of hunting, emphasizing the thrill of adventure, the importance of preparation, and the inspiring bond between generations. They share personal stories, including Trey's experiences with his father and the challenges faced during hunts. The discussion also highlights the allure of wild Africa and the beauty of sheep hunting, while underscoring the significance of mindset and community in the hunting experience.

Click the link to download a FREE copy of our training guide 5 Biggest Backcountry Training Mistakes: And How to Avoid Them

In this episode of the Human Predator Packmule podcast, Todd Bumgardner addresses listener questions on strength endurance training, running high mileage while maintaining speed, and his recent experiences with chuckar hunting. He discusses various training methods, including eustress training and high intensity continuous training, and emphasizes the importance of mental skills in physical training. Todd also shares insights from his chucker hunting adventure, highlighting the role of bird dogs and the physical challenges of the hunt. He concludes with information about upcoming programs and resources for listeners.

Download a FREE copy of our most popular training guide --> 5 Biggest Backcountry Training Mistakes: And How to Avoid Them

Todd and John Mark Prewitt explore the transformative power of sheep hunting, discussing how it has impacted John's life both physically and mentally. John shares his journey of weight loss and preparation for various hunts, emphasizing the challenges faced during these experiences. The discussion also delves into the emotional complexities of hunting, the shift from whitetail to western hunting, and the importance of staying present during the hunt. John reflects on his experiences in Africa and the lessons learned from each adventure, culminating in his aspirations for future hunts. In this engaging conversation, John Mark Prewitt shares his experiences and insights from his recent sheep hunting adventure. He discusses the process of securing a hunting tag, the dynamics of hunting with friends, and the emotional journey that comes with the hunt. The conversation delves into the ethical considerations of hunting, the importance of capturing moments through photography, and reflections on the unique experiences that sheep hunting offers. John also shares his aspirations for future hunts, emphasizing the significance of staying physically fit and the allure of exploring new hunting opportunities around the world.

Chapters

00:00 The Life-Changing Impact of Sheep Hunting

03:03 Physical and Mental Challenges of Hunting

06:14 The Journey of Transformation

09:01 Introduction to John Mark Prewitt

11:58 The Shift from Whitetail to Western Hunting

14:51 The Emotional Complexity of Hunting

18:09 The Experience of Hunting in Africa

21:04 The Importance of Staying Present

23:53 The Utah Hunt and Future Aspirations

27:53 The Journey to Securing the Hunt Tag

29:45 The Experience of the First Outfitted Hunt

31:30 The Hunt Begins: Strategies and Decisions

34:45 The Emotional Rollercoaster of Hunting

39:30 The Ethical Considerations in Hunting

42:19 Capturing the Moments: Photography in the Field

46:12 Reflections on the Sheep Hunt Experience

48:34 Future Aspirations in Sheep Hunting

Download our FREE training guide, 5 Biggest Backcountry Training Mistakes: And How to Avoid Them:

https://www.humanpredatorpackmule.com/free-resources

In this episode:

1. Power training for hunters...and why focusing on power training for hunting might be the wrong way to think about it

2. Transitioning from in-season hunting fitness to off-season hunting fitness, and why you shouldn't have to "rebuild"

Click the link below to download our FREE training guide, 5 Biggest Backcountry Training Mistakes: And How to Avoid Them

https://www.humanpredatorpackmule.com/free-resources

In this episode:

1. Typical training time frames

2. How consistency effects when you should

change your training

3. How to change your training when you change goals

4. How different training methods have different training time frames

5. How life factors effect when you change your training

Click the link below to download our FREE training guide 5 Biggest Backcountry Training Mistakes: And How to Avoid Them —>

https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/vvZ5TsiB3GIatEw7Y61V

Todd and Jordan talk about what folks who feel tight on time can do to get their training in and stay consistent. www.humanpredatorpackmule.com/backcountry-ready

Todd and Jordan chat about why you can’t ignore training programming parameters and expect to get the outcomes you want.

Todd and Jordan recap Jordan’s recent trip to Montana for sharp tailed grouse with his dogs Charley and Matilda.

Jenny Chappell is a Nevada-based financial advisor, hunter, and Backcountry Ready member. She joins Todd to talk financial health as it relates to hunting. Jenny Chappell, CFP® 401 Flint Street Reno, NV 89501 775-321-6200 www.nevadafamilywealth.com . Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Nevada Family Wealth is not a registered broker dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services.

Backcountry Ready member, Rush Simpson hails from Arkansas, but he’s traveled the world this summer to mountain hunt. He recaps his New Zealand chamois and tahr hunts, as well as his Dall sheep hunt in the Northwest Territories.

Todd and Jordan chat about the transition from pre-season hunt fitness training to in-season training with a little tangent on training for longevity. Check out our free resource library here: https://humanpredatorpackmule.com/pages/free-resources

Jordan and Todd chat about how to build and maintain year-round and in-season fitness for western upland hunting. HPPM Free Resources: https://humanpredatorpackmule.com/pages/free-resources

Todd and Jordan chat about the what, why, and how behind the final phase of the Backcountry Ready pre-season training program. And Jordan recaps his recent trip to Alaska. Check out the 3 ways you can train with us: hppts://humanpredatorpackmule.com/pages/training-programs

Todd and Jordan chat about their strategies for mental prep before hitting the field. If you want to go deeper, click the link to check out our article on the same topic: https://humanpredatorpackmule.com/blogs/news/mental-prep-for-the-grind-of-a-hunt

Todd and Jordan chat with Caylen and Phillip from Modern Day Sniper. Caylen and Phillip give killer advice on dialing in your fundamentals so you’re a better rifle hunter come fall. https://moderndaysniper.com https://www.moderndayrifleman.com

Todd and Jordan chat about the strength endurance methods pioneered in Russia and how to use them in hunting performance. Want to read more on these training methods? Click the following link: https://humanpredatorpackmule.com/blogs/news/summer-strength-training-for-backcountry-and-mountain-hunting

Todd and Jordan chat about how to use self-talk to get yourself through the spiciest of workouts. To read our blog about self-talk that offers actionable steps, click the link: https://humanpredatorpackmule.com/blogs/news/how-to-talk-yourself-through-hard-workouts

Todd flies solo on this episode and lays out 7 things every person that travels to hunt mountains must do to prepare their body for climbing big mountains with weight on their back. Have a mountain hunt coming up? Check out our flagship program Backcountry Ready. We guarantee results: https://humanpredatorpackmule.com/pages/backcountry-ready