Backpacking and Multi-Day Hiking: Training to Get Fit, Strong, and Resilient

2/5/2026

At Summit Strength, we’ve helped hundreds of hikers train, prepare, and conquer backpacking and multi-day hiking adventures.

Through structured online hiking training programs, expert guidance, and personalised coaching for hikers, our clients consistently achieve outstanding results on the trail.

Below, you’ll find a collection of real backpacking success stories from hikers who trained with Summit Strength and went on to complete their multi-day hiking adventures with confidence and strength.

Training For Backpacking And Multi-Day Hiking: Summit Strength Reviews

"I worked with Rowan in order to complete my first ever backpacking trip, the Teton Crest Trail. I found this to be an exceptional training program. Rowan does a great job providing useful, personalized guidance that is well tailored to each individual's goals. He was able to help me adjust the plan as needed based on schedule and my goals.

The best part was that I never struggled on the trail---it wasn't easy but I was completely prepared.

Yes absolutely, I would recommend Rowan to others who want to achieve some. I think a lot of advice on the internet regarding training for hiking activities is incomplete or just not well done. Rowan goes beyond the obvious advice and really provides good suggestions about injury prevention, efficient training, and general hiking tips."

- Krystal

"I signed up with Summit Strength to help with good plantar/foot health on the trail.

The process began with a personal interview and review of past problems I have had with foot health on the trail, followed by a customized program to prepare me.

One specific moment which stood out was I was concerned about lugging heavy therapy balls with me for in-camp recovery, and lo and behold, super lightweight cork balls show up in my mailbox!

This is a success story for me and I have already recommended Summit Strength to fellow trekkers. I have done 3 prior treks to Philmont and suffered from Plantar Fasciitis (and a stress fracture in my heel!) on all of them. But this time, I was pain-free the entire time and felt well prepared to go on the trail.

Highly recommend Rowan's friendly and personalized approach for your next trek."

- Stephen

"I started working with Summit Strength to re-gain my strength for long day hikes and multi-day backpacking trips. As a goal I had the Trans Catalina Trail in California.

Rowan is always available and open to reply to any questions. The program is detailed and the educational series is very interesting and useful.

I had very limited time to do workouts during the day, due to my hard work schedule. However Rowan managed to fit the work out plans into my routine. With only 30 minutes of training per day I saw an incredible result after the 12 weeks."

- Leonardo

"I hired Summit Strength to help with conditioning for Grand Canyon Rim to Rim hike.

I can't say enough good things about my experience with Summit Strength. The program is wildly comprehensive, and the coaching is superb. My coach truly understood the challenges I was facing and offered the support and encouragement I needed.

I'd 100% work with them again (and plan to when I'm closer to my next hike)."

- Kelley

"Thanks in large part to Rowan’s coaching principles, I completed the Wonderland trail (around Mt Rainier in Washington state, 93 miles and 22,000 feet cumulative elevation gain) last week!

It was an incredibly beautiful trail. So many smaller everyday skills — from hydration and food to recovery and foot care — made continuing our 12-day journey possible and enjoyable. Many thanks for your generous sharing of resources, support and information,"

- Eliza

"I first hired Summit Strength to help getting hike fit for Cape-Cape in Western Australia.

Rowan listened and took on board my individual circumstances, personality, preferences and worked out a program in response to that with the option to always let him know if something wasn't working.
I couldn't recommend Rowan more highly. As well as being knowledgeable, he's approachable and flexible and generous with his time and really thought carefully about how to make this program work for me, trying several different options when I hit unexpected setbacks...and even if I hadn't had a great week, he would always manage to find something to encourage me about!

I would definitely recommend this to other hikers. I think because I felt like Rowan took his coaching commitment to me really seriously, the tweaks and suggestions really made me know he was in my corner, wanting the best for me."

- Tanya

"In October 2023, I realised a long held dream to become a thru hiker, thanks to Rowan Smith and Summit Strength. I solo hiked the 130 km Cape to Cape Track (Western Australia) carrying a 15 kg pack over 9 days with no injuries and not a single blister.

I wanted to do this not just because I love being outside and it is a spectacular place- but also to regain my strength and fitness after 10 years struggling to recover from a back injury.

At 53 years old, I had a choice- continue to constantly get niggling pains and injuries and progressively lose functional strength and capability- or go the other way and smash a big goal. Summit Strength was essential for this.

All I had to do was follow the program rather than design it myself. And I could do it from home. The slow but steady build up kept me from getting injured. The accountability kept me on track. The community motivated and inspired me- huge thanks."

- Marji

"I hired Summit Strength to help prepare me for backpacking at the Smoky Mountains.

On the trail I was able to climb over trees that I never would have been able to before. My endurance levels were amazing!

Absolutely would work with this team again. First, they listened to my concerns and particular goals. They provided me with options and made it easy for me to adapt workouts to my schedule. The workouts were challenging but not so difficult that I couldn't get through them.

I very much appreciated the videos that showed correct format whenever I needed it. The app was motivating as it provided a way to track and keet up the encouragement."

- Ann

"Just finished the 100km Florence to Sienna trek to fundraise for MS research over 5 days - not one blister or cramp. Bit of muscle soreness and tired legs as I would expect after backing up each day for 5 - I’m so stoked - thank you- the encouragement as well as practical advice was so appreciated."

- Debbie

"I initially joined Summit Strength as I had a 1000km/7 week hike that I was planning to do. Even though I am an experienced multi day hiker, taking on the challenge of a 7 week hike as my first solo hike was something that I thought I needed help with to get the best out of my body.

Rowan listened to me. I told him about my previous experiences with coaches and gyms and the like and he asked all the right questions, in regards to what I liked and what I didn't like about those experiences. He explained that to move forward I needed to approach his way with a clean slate and trust him. He explained that some exercises were negotiable and others not, and I was fine with that. Rowan asked about my hiking experiences, and wanted to know how my new challenge would compare.

Rowan is a wizard! And his strength programme is pure magic. I go to a myotherapist once a month for a tune up.... and today was the day. Normally when I go, something hurts and more often than not lots of things hurt - tight quads, TFL, ITB, SIJ, knees, lower back, wonky hips, think you get the picture. Well for the last 3 weeks (since my epic fall when hiking) I have been feeling good and no pain anywhere. I have been feeling really strong! So when I went to Nathan today, I was hoping that feeling strong would translate into a pain free session with him, because he wouldn't have to try and get all my bits done and feeling like they should. And guess what? He asked me what I had been doing differently because everything was inline, loose and responsive. He couldn't believe that none of my usual issues was rearing their ugly heads. It's an awesome feeling.

Your strength sessions have definitely made a difference to me. Thank you so much. When a programme works as well as Rowan's everyone should know about it. The secrets out!"

- Deb

"I needed to prepare for an upcoming 3-week pack walk in Kakadu NP. I wanted to go feeling confident in my strength and fitness.

The training program was tailored taking my limitations into consideration. I had experienced knee pain at times and Rowan was able to assess that I needed to build strength and flexibility around that area. The exercises were all things I could achieve with my backyard fitness equipment set up and within the time I had available.

The experience was very positive. I really enjoyed using the online app to schedule my daily workouts and to see progress over the three months. When I had a flare-up of knee swelling Rowan was supportive and I was able to manage the situation and continue to improve. Combined with the regular education I have learned so much that I'm now confident to keep working through little setbacks.

I would be very happy to work with Summit Strength again and would definitely recommend the program to others."

- Coleta

"My goal was to build strength to complete a multi-day backpacking trip into the wilderness on challenging terrain and altitude.

Starting from intake videos to make an initial assessment, Summit Strength tailored a weekly program to accommodate my needs and schedule to build up to reach my goal. Midterm assessments helped track specific results and daily/weekly check-ins helped keep me on track with the ability to have all of my questions answered.

My experience with Summit Strength has been no less than amazing and empowering! After starting the program with a significant injury that changed my mental strategy going in, Summit Strength actively listened and adjusted my program to fit during the healing process and still produce strong results. The individualized care and compassion of my trainer moved me from ground zero to stellar heights in just a few weeks.

I would highly recommend joining Summit Strength’s program to anyone of any athletic ability or condition, and especially any athlete struggling with pain.

I found the positive feedback from my trainer to be empowering and compassionate at all levels of my training. The results I have achieved inside of just 12 weeks have been no less than amazing, so much so that I am enrolling in the Summit Strength program for another year. Rowan Smith’s expertise in his field is second to none. I was impressed with the clarity of how much work he does in the background to continually build his professional development by researching numerous studies and keeping tabs on the pulse of the industry."

- Tamra

"I started working with Summit Strength to increase and then maintain hiking fitness year-round. Through progressive phases of training over the program, I have built up a solid foundation of strength, stability and aerobic fitness that I can continue to work on and progress over time.

I have thoroughly enjoyed the structure of my personalized training plan and looked forward to each workout. Loved the training App. Loved being able to do the exercises at home. Definitely feeling stronger and more confident on the trail, a couple of people have noticed and asked me if I have been training.

I would most certainly recommend them to others. This is such a unique service for those training for hiking, and so nice to be treated as a "real" athlete."

-Lynne

"I first started training with Rowan to prepare for a remote hike in Alaska.

Rowan carefully listened to the nature of my hike, then examined where I was at today with fitness and strength. He then customised a plan to precisely target what was needed, as well as strengthening weak areas. The sessions were very enjoyable and made me sweat, with supportive conversation throughout.

- Amanda

"I just wanted to say a big thank you for your training and support for the final stages of my preparation for my first multi-day hike. I'm pleased to say that my body absolutely loved the walking and apart from a bad sinus headache on day 5, the hike was a dream."

- Renate

"I joined up with Summit Strength to help prepare my body for multiday hikes so that I can enjoy the hiking without worrying about niggling pains and also to improve my balance and avoid falls.

My general experience of working with Rowan has been that he is thoroughly dedicated to achieving the best outcome physically and mentally for his clients. There is no problem that he cannot find a solution to one way or another and he will keep going until he finds the right fit for you. Over the 12 weeks, I have built up strength, resilience and confidence in my abilities. I now feel ready to take on multiday hikes without the nagging doubts that I am not capable or would not be able to keep up with groups. This has been a great program and I would thoroughly recommend it to anyone in the hiking world.

I would definitely work with and recommend Rowan again and I know he would always have my back and make sure that my targets and goals are met."

- Bree

"I started working with Summit Strength to help prepare to participate in multi-day adventure travel and ensure I enjoy the experience to the fullest.

It was a great experience! Rowan was very responsive to any issues I identified and provided alternatives when needed.

I would definitely work with them again and recommend them to anybody. The program is tailored to an individual’s specific needs and Rowan does not hesitate to tweak it when needed."

- Stephanie

"I hired Summit Strength to help me begin training for upcoming multi-day hiking trips.

Working with Rowan was great. He planned workouts that were within my reach so I did not get discouraged.

I intend to keep working with Summit Strength. I have a long way to go!"

- Michelle

"I started working with Summit Strength to improve my overall fitness for a major multi-day hike. Rowan is amazing. He offered in-depth counseling, designed a stellar program, and regularly made tweaks.

Summit Strength is a top-notch training program and I would recommend it to anyone looking to grow as a hiker."

- La June

"I hired Summit Strength to improve my fitness on and off the trail. Rowan set up a program based on my current fitness and time available for training and amended the program every 3 weeks. There were online learning sessions on different topics like hiking at altitude, nutrition, self-care, recovery, sleep to help you ensure you get the most out of yourself, your body and mind while on and off the trail.

I really like the way Rowan tailored each training session specific to me, how he was always available to answer questions and provide positive support to ensure you obtain the most out of the program. I am so grateful to Rowan and all the knowledge and experience he has given me. My fitness on and off the trail has improved exponentially and I am able to hike with ease and have the confidence to tackle any mountain, long days on the trail and any trekking adventure I have in my sights.

I would definitely work with Rowan again, he has given me the confidence and knowledge to grow as a hiker and his positive approach and dedication to help you achieve any of you hiking goals no matter what fitness or injuries you may have."

- Renae

"I approached Summit Strength to get help with training to prepare for multiday hikes.

Rowan took the time to understand my particular goals and evaluated my strength and flexibility before creating the program to ensure an appropriate starting level. One of the best aspects was how Rowan effectively progressed the program over the weeks. It ensured I built up the right foundation to progress to the next level. Because of that approach, I was able to do exercises I never thought I could! Additionally, Rowan is incredibly responsive and adapted my program based on feedback or limitations I may be facing.

My general experience working with Rowan was terrific. I really appreciated his positive and supportive attitude while providing helpful guidance, advice and tools to maintain a disciplined practice. I would definitely recommend Rowan to help you achieve your hiking goals!"

- Aparna

"I first started working with Summit Strength to improve overall hiking strength and fitness in preparation for some longer hikes I have planned.

My experience with Summit Strength has been fantastic. The program is easy to follow, there is plenty of contact with Rowan and other Summit members throughout the week and it's great to share that team spirit. Rowan is always there to provide support, answer questions and adjust the program as needed. I like how the program integrates nutrition, hydration, mental strategies and more to make it an integrated approach to improving your hiking and the enjoyment you get from it.

I would definitely recommend Summit Strength - hiking strength and fitness are unique and it's so important to train and develop that strength. This not only improves your strength and fitness but helps to minimize the risk of injuries and improve your overall hiking experience. This program delivers results which are evident from an early stage."

- Marianne

"I hired Summit Strength to generally feel less back pain when hiking with weight and feel confident to do more multi-day hikes. I was given hiking specific workouts to progress through that were suited to my home gym set-up and then to my gym (when I joined one halfway through the program). I had no idea which muscles I needed to strengthen, but the program taught me that as well as why those were the muscles to focus on specifically for the challenges of hiking.

Working through the Summit Strength program was a really fun experience, I especially loved the interaction in the community group and on the coaching calls because other hikers had problems and questions that I didn't even realised I wanted the answers to as well. Rowan is friendly, easy to talk to, and I felt he was always working towards my interests in the program, making the program work for me around my availability, equipment and fitness level. My highlight moment of the program was discovering that I could do a single leg rise after only a few weeks of working out, it felt like I was making real progress even though I didn't have a tangible trip at the end of the program to measure myself against.

I would recommend the Summit Strength program to anyone who does multi-day hikes or experiences pain while hiking with a pack. You will learn so much about your body, hiking, pain, nutrition, hydration, even how to hike in the heat! It would have taken me months of research to find out even half the stuff that's included in the program, and that's not even considering the tailor-made exercise program and accountability that comes with the weekly group calls and community group support. If you're getting ready for any kind of multi-day hike (from an over-nighter to a months long trek) and don't know where to start with physical and mental preparation, this program is for you."

- Zoe

"I hired Rowan to help me prepare for the O Circuit of Patagonia.

I wanted to improve my overall fitness but also try to avoid some flare-ups of chronic injuries. He was great to work with, and I enjoyed the training he give. The trek went well! I highly recommend working with him."

- Em

How Summit Strength Helps Backpackers And Multi-Day Hikers Train For Their Adventures

At Summit Strength, we specialise in helping backpackers and multi-day hikers get fit, strong, and resilient for their adventures. And over the years, we have helped hundreds of hikers get into an incredible position for the trail.

How do we do this?

We provide specialised and personalised workout plans (building strength, fitness, balance, mobility and real-world hiking in a way which matches each individual's capabilities, preferences and goals).

We educate you on the topics which can dramatically improve your training and hiking (such as nutrition, recovery, pain and injury prevention, mental strength and mindset, gear strategies and much more).

We provide the support, coaching and accountability to keep you on track (though any challenges or roadblocks life throws at you).

If you are preparing for a backpacking or multi-day hiking adventure, and you want to give yourself the best chance of a safe, enjoyable, and successful adventure, we would love to chat with you.

To learn more about our Online Personal Training For Hikers, you can check it out here:

Online Personal Training For Backpacking

Yours in trekking,

Rowan

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Summit Strength is a personal training for hiking service created specifically to help hikers have the best chance of a safe, enjoyable and successful adventure.