Mt Kilimanjaro, 5895m

Jen

"I just returned from a successful climb of Mt. Kilimanjaro! I am beyond amazed that I had ZERO knee pain, or physical pain of any kind, on the trip. As someone with a history of over-use injuries and intense knee pain on descents, I though my long-distance hiking days were behind me (at 32!). Rowan put a structured, easy to follow, and comprehensive plan into place that helped me gain strength, endurance, and mobility in the months leading up to my trip. I am so excited that I can hike without pain, it has me already planning my next mountain adventure. I have the deepest gratitude for Rowan and all he does. I’m so thankful to have found my way back to an activity I love.  I can’t recommend working with Rowan enough!"

Everest Base Camp, 5380m

Molly

"Couldn’t be more recommending of Rowan and his personal training services. During our short time together rowan has drawn on his extensive knowledge of trekking specific strength and cardio exercises to make me very prepared to tackle Everest Base Camp. In addition, Rowan has gone well beyond the physical elements of personal training and has educated me about suitable foods for trekking, how to quickly overcome sickness, sleeping tips at altitude and injury avoidance techniques. Rowan's support and guidance has made me feel very prepared and confident going into my trek. Couldn't speak more highly of him!"

Mt Kilimanjaro, 5895m

Steve

"Rowan has been training me for well over a year now. This period has covered a trek to Everest Base Camp last year and a trek to climb Mount Kilimanjaro this. For both treks I have felt really well prepared.
Rowan tailors his sessions and there has been a fantastic and structured build up to each trek. The result was I found the trek last year went really well and this year was all good too! No headaches at all and it is all down to the great training and advice before hand. The breathing techniques and the practice prescribed really helped!"

Lene

"I have successfully trekked Mt Kilimanjaro, Mt Stanley and Mt Aconcagua and, in August 2019, the Zanskar Indus Traverse but found them difficult. I had ramped up my training prior to the last trek so it was clear that I needed trek focused training. Amazingly, just as I came to this conclusion, I saw Summit Strength on a Facebook tag, checked it out and joined up!

The Training plans address issues that have been identified by Rowan in my 5-minute exercise video assessment, as well as working to improve my aerobic capacity. The progression of strength exercises and aerobic workouts are subtle yet very effective.

The online program is easy to follow and the exercise demonstration clips are a huge help. Information and tips provided by Rowan are very relevant for my trekking ambitions and he always responds quickly to any queries. Recently I trekked the Walls of Jerusalem - no problems with the pack load and I was very surprised at how much my confidence and balance on rocks had improved.

I will definitely continue with Summit Strength so that I can be ready for my next adventures! I highly recommend Summit Strength to anyone planning a trek. I have been training with Summit Strength for about 3 months but it is already improving my fitness. It works – thanks Rowan!"

Mt Meru, 4565m

Ariella

"Rowan is such an amazing trainer. He is incredibly passionate about what he does and always pushed me to my full potential. My fitness level after the duration of my training was the best it had ever been which made summiting Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru a real breeze. I'd really recommend having Rowan as a trainer as he really loves what he does and knows exactly how to make you achieve your fitness goals no matter how big or small." 

Mt Elbrus, 5642m

Matt

"After seeing other climbers on the mountain struggling, I definitely felt the training program set out gave me an edge over the pack. I felt the training program set out by Rowan was perfect for the activities I was undertaking and can't thank him enough!" 

Mt Kilimanjaro, 5895m

Silvia

"Even though I had a short time to get ready for a Kilimanjaro trek, Rowan helped me to get the most of it. He pumped up every session with intense training and adopted the right approach to what worked the best for me. The sessions not only helped me to improve my fitness level, but he gave me lots of helpful tips for the trek and his great knowledge and recommendations helped me to drop my eating habits. Train with Rowan! 10/10 recommended.” 

Everest Base Camp, 5380m

MElinda

"I was a client of Row training for a trip to Everest BC in 2017. Rowan was great at training me and preparing me for what I had ahead. I had a dozen injuries and lung issues - all sorts of considerations but you really can’t do it alone and he’s patient but pushes you. I strongly recommend using his services. I was the fittest person who made Everest BC in my group in the end and truly credit the training with him."

Everest Base Camp, 5380m

Steph

"I just wanted to say a big THANK YOU for helping me train for my Everest Base Camp trek! Thank you for your knowledge, care, encouragement, your belief in me and most of all for helping to instill confidence in myself! I smashed it! Kilimanjaro next?!"

Mt Blanc, 4810m

Melanie

"I first hired Summit Strength to help me train for climbing Mont Blanc and doing the Haute Route trek from Chamonix to Zermatt. When we first started, Rowan took the time to learn about my goals, trekking experience, successes, challenges and my current training plan. He also assessed my strength and balance through video.

It is a very personalized service that identified my needs, goals, abilities and developed a flexible plan that focuses on helping me make steady progress, safely.
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I would absolutely work with them again. This service was perfect for me: I was motivated to train by doing long hikes, running stairs with a weighted backpack, but didn't know what else to do to prepare physically and mentally for a challenging trek and climb. The program has provided structure to my training and does not require going to a gym. Rowan listens carefully to everything I say or ask, and he educates the client in all aspects of preparing for a challenging adventure."

Abra Palomani, 5100m

Chloe

"I started working with Summit Strength to help with strength and stability before my long trip to become qualified as an Expedition Leader. The whole experience was really fantastic! Rowan has been a great help getting me ready for my trip in a very short time frame! Extremely knowledgeable and very specific information which has helped enormously! I would most definitely work with them again. It was all very flexible and well catered to the individual."

Mt Kilimanjaro, 5895m

Anneke

"I first hired Summit Strength to help with trek readiness for my Kilimanjaro Climb. The process involved some great, concise, workout programs with a mix of cardio, strength and stretching specifically designed to target trek readiness in a short (6 week) amount of time. Would I work with them again? Yes!  I feel like I am in the best possible place to take on my challenge!"

Mt Kilimanjaro, 5895m

William Clark

"Just wanted to let you know I successfully summited Kilimanjaro on February 7. It was extremely difficult for me as I got a high fever and flu-like illness one day before the summit attempt. I credit lots of the training and nutrition information in your course for helping me overcome this obstacle as well as the mountain itself. Thanks mate!"

Kalapatthar, 5643m

Senta

"By training with Rowan for my Everest Base Camp trek I found myself not only physically prepared but armed with a wealth of knowledge about dealing with altitude, self-care and mental strength to enjoy my journey and achieve my goal. Thank you Rowan!"

Amanda

"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.  Unfortunately, corona virus has delayed my 2020 hike, but I will train with Rowan again as I train for the hike in 2021 instead."

Kylie

"I started working with Summit Strength to be able to easily complete the 60km Sydney Coastrek.  Rowan was really good at taking into consideration the endurance aspect of our challenge. He was also very helpful in understanding my other life constraints & injury issues.  Yes, I would work with Rowan again. He was really helpful in all aspects of the training including nutrition and motivation. At times I would wonder why we were doing a certain exercise however it all made sense as we came closer to the end of the training program. The program really helped me to be feeling strong and fit at the end of it."

Jared

"Think you’re strong? Think you’re fit? Think you’ve got your workouts well structured & targeted…. Rowan will likely make you think again! Rowan will take you from just working hard…. To working hard & smart to get the most effective use of your training time. Thanks Rowan, I’ll be back when climbing season kicks off again!"

Vicky

"I started PT sessions with Rowan as a bit of a gym-phobic... but he turned that around!  He helped break down my rather vague initial goals into smaller, specific, but most importantly, achievable goals. All set to a timeframe which lent an element of accountability to our sessions.  That, coupled with the varied and challenging workouts devised by Rowan, has been extremely motivating. 
Rowan is incredibly encouraging and seems to have a never-ending faith in my abilities!  With this support and the great rapport he has built with me, he has given me the confidence to increase the weights used in the exercises and has got me doing things I didn't think I was capable of.  
I particularly like the way Rowan will take the time to talk through new exercises, demonstrate them and explain the benefit of each including which muscles/muscle groups are being worked on.  He is also very adaptable and can adjust the session at a moment’s notice if I turn up with a sore foot or wrist, for example, to ensure we still have an effective workout without causing further pain or injury.  I wouldn't hesitate in recommending him as a Personal Trainer."

Tour Du Mont Blanc

Clare

"I hired Summit Strength to prepare for the Tour Du Mont Blanc. I was delighted with the online training program that Rowan put together for me! It was easy to incorporate into my schedule, and targeted key muscles to help me hike without any injuries. I felt very well prepared for my 10-day hike, it was great to have a structured program to make sure I covered all bases. Would I work with them? Absolutely, in fact, I am planning to!"

Machu Picchu, 2430m

Juanita

"I first hired Summit Strength to help me getting ready to walk the Inca Trail.  Rowan had an initial conversation with me over the phone and worked out a plan for me from there. In the program there wasn't one specific moment which stood out for me... I think that is the benefit of working with Rowan. There are lots of small moments that build on each other to establish trust, meet you where you’re at and building your understanding, capability and self-belief one week at a time. I would definitely work with them again. Rowan is very experienced and knowledgeable and he totally has your back. He is very empathetic when things don’t go according to plan and helps you to acknowledge where you’re at, let go of the negative emotions that often holds us back and focus on what’s most useful to do next."

Kokoda Trail

Ali

“A couple of years ago in Nepal, my knee pain was so bad I had to just about to be carried down the mountain. I was literally in agony every single step… but after following the program and advice from Rowan, not only did I conquer the Kokoda Trail - but I did it completely pain-free!
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I got through all the elevation gains and loss fine was able to actually look around and take in the surroundings and got through every day quite comfortably. I would recommend the program to anyone who is preparing for Kokoda or any other trek."

Pete

"I've trained with Rowan for about a year now, and I can't recommend him highly enough. Rowan put together varied programs, that always challenged me and that he catered to my needs and goals as they changed over the year. Every week, he pushed me to perform at my best, but he was always encouraging and supporting—it felt like I was working out with a mate. Beyond the gym, Rowan is very knowledgeable about nutrition, and he helped me adopt better habits and make lifestyle changes to achieve my goals. You'll see some great results with Rowan, five stars!"

Phil

"After a mate invited me to climb Kilimanjaro for September 2018, I approached Rowan for some help in preparing me for what for me was the unknown.
I had had significant experience in competitive marathons, triathlons and as a life long swimmer. I had coached and played hockey at high levels. I had firm ideas about diet, preparation for competition and tapering.
But I knew nothing about training and preparing for high altitude trekking. ..
I picked the right man. Rowan listened, then planned a periodised program over 4 months that accommodated my hockey training and playing workload.
 He challenged me to develop the core and hip strength that he believes is necessary for high altitude trekking.
 He prepared me for the challenges of training for and trekking at high altitude. We talked about diet and eating at high altitude. We talked about (legal) drugs. Rowan is an experienced trainer and altitude specialist."

Everest Base Camp, 5380

George

​"My goal was to build up strength in my legs to have a better chance of getting through my upcoming trek to Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes.
Initially Rowan rang me up and we had a chat about what I was doing and where I was going and he tailored a training program around what I would need for my trek.
Overall it was a very welcoming and accommodating experience. Even though we haven't met face to face, he was very friendly and I am glad I took Rowan on. I have managed to lose 5kgs along the way so far and haven’t looked back.
I would work with him again in any future endeavors I will be undertaking. I feel stronger when walking, the training app is easy to use and the side emails are very insightful as to what to expect on the trek and contain heaps of useful information regarding altitude" 

Sully​

"I have never been an athlete. I have never associated myself with fitness. I have always hated working out. I have tried numerous work out styles, tried F45 and I have had a lot of personal trainers in my time. All of them were short lived because I felt like I couldn't keep up and I was injuring myself rather than improving. And then I found Rowan. The thing that I loved most about Rowan's teaching style was that he worked with my current fitness level. We did 3 months of foundational work before exponentially increasing my strength training. For the first time in my life I never missed a training session. Before long, my dresses were looser, I was walking taller and I was doing 75kg deadlifts! This for someone who struggled to lift more than 10kg previously. If you need someone who can work with you to significantly improve your current fitness level, you can't get better than Rowan!"

Mera Peak, 6476m

Patrick

"I hired Summit Strength to help relieve knee pain and train for an upcoming expedition to Mera Peak in Nepal. The whole experience was very professional and personalised. It helped me deal with my knee pain and keep training. The app is great for tracking workouts. I would recommend working with them to others."

Mount Kilimanjaro, 5895m

Steve

"I started working with Summit Strength to help towards climbing Kilimanjaro in November to raise money for Sydney Children's Hospital.  Rowan is a legend, super passionate about trek fitness and super knowledgeable. Found my weaknesses and I can feel a huge difference in the areas we have been focusing on.  From our initial phone call consultation, I have loved every minute training with Rowan (apart from his end of sesh finishers :-))  If you have a trek planned, training with Rowan is a must!"

JEremy

"I first hired Summit Strength because I wanted to be able to hike with a heavier pack and longer distances without killing myself and ruining the experience. Because I'm training from home, Rowan had me do a recorded physical assessment before we started so he had an idea what I was capable of. This meant I was able to do everything he planned right away instead of struggling through some generic training which wasn't specific to me.

Rowan has been fantastic and has built a personal training plan that is simple but very focused. He's always available to answer questions or provide alternatives to suit what equipment I have available to me. He's also been able to adjust my training plan to fit into my schedule by shortening my work outs so I can keep on top of my training even when I get busy. Shortly after starting with Rowan I was able to hike EASY 10km+ days on the trail every day for 3 days. Previously this would have been extremely difficult, but I was super comfortable and had plenty in the tank to do more (I could have doubled those days!)

I would highly recommend Rowan to any hiker or outdoor enthusiast who wants to get a bit more out of their adventures, or if you've got a more serious expedition planned and want to feel confident in your strength and ability so you can enjoy the experience."

Renate

"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, which cut my day short, the hike was a dream."

Nicola

"I hired Summit Strength to help me get ready for a 3-day tramp of the Hump Ridge Track in New Zealand.  I had only two months to prepare. Rowan made sure I started out easy rather than rushing into a full-on programme. And then gradually built up the weight repetitions and sets. 
A month out from my tramp, my physio asked me to stop doing any significant amount of walking. Rowan was fantastic; he adjusted my programme to accommodate this and helped me stay positive which meant I was able to complete my tramp without any problems.
Would I recommend him to others? Yes, I appreciate Rowan's insight into the different aspects required for strength and endurance. The fact that he hikes is a definite plus and he has a wealth of information and tips that are really useful."

Michelle

"I worked with Summit Strength to get in shape for an upcoming trek in Peru to Manchu Picchu. I am in my 50s and have never been very active.  Rowan had me complete exercises while on video to verify my strengths and weaknesses. He was careful to ask me for feedback on any exercises he gave me. He took EVERY piece of feedback that I gave him and adjusted my workout accordingly.  Rowan helped to create a very unique workout routine for me. He took into account where I was at physically, where I wanted to go, and what I was willing to do to get there. When my motivation started to wane he reached out to me. He helped me to set goals and worked with me to make sure that he could get me there.
I would and plan on working with Rowan again! I postponed my trip due to COVID and when we are back on track for travelling, I will for sure sign back up for online personal training."

Poon Hill, 3210m

Tanya

"I started working with Summit Strength to prepare me for the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal. To get me ready, they put together  a well thought out detailed online program. The experience was fantastic. Rowan checked in regularly and designed a program around my lifestyle. I would work with them again and recommend them to other trekkers."

UNAZA

"Just wanted to say thank you to you, my friend, for helping me reach this mesmerising beauty. My little bit of training with you helped a lot!"

Anne

"I trained with Summit Strength in preparation for hiking the Kepler and Humpridge Track in New Zealand.  I engaged Rowan because he trains specifically for trekking/hiking. He understands what hikers specific needs are because he hikes himself. He uses science and evidence-based training rather than what is "popular / trending".
Rowan developed a progressive plan specifically for my hikes that I accessed through an App. This was supplemented with emails and phone support. He was available to offer advice, support, encouragement and answer any questions. 
I came in with an injury and Rowan worked with my Physiotherapist to develop a personal training plan to prepare me for the hikes. This allowed me to train without further injury or aggravation to a known injury. That fact alone reinforced that I had made the right decision in asking Rowan for his assistance.
I would recommend Rowan to anyone who needs guidance, accountability and structure to prepare for their hike. He will help make it happen for you."

Wayne

"I wanted to be able to hike downhill more easily and quickly. Over the 28-days we trained together, I made some progress towards it but it is going to take more time to attain it.  I thought the workouts helped me, identifying areas that needed work - mobility, balance and strength.  I enjoyed the challenge that some of the workouts posed and the ease with which Rowan adjusted them to better suit my ability.  I would recommend the training to others hikers, but for the restrictions imposed by the current pandemic, I would have continued."

Max

"My initial goal was to get fit to walk the Australian Alps Walking Track, while I will not be able to complete the walk at the moment (due to park closures), I feel I have increased my fitness and strength per my goals.  I particularly liked the variety (targeting strength, mobility, aerobic fitness and endurance). I think if I had tried to do it on my own I would over-focus on strength and miss the rest.
The general experience working with Summit Strength was great. I particularly liked 3 things. 1) customisation to my injury, needs and equipment. 2) accountability to Rowan through check-ins (this kept me in track). 3) motivation, I actually found the money invested/refund to be a motivator.  Would I recommend them to others? Yes, 100%. The accountability and motivation really helped."

Breanne

"I just finished both Machu Picchu and the Paine Mastiff circuit at Torres del Paine. I really felt the benefit of the endurance and ankle stability work on the long rocky trails there and definitely felt the benefit of strengthening the knees on all the steps!
Rowan, thank you so much for your guidance and support the past few months. I was really lost with training and how to prepare for these hikes but become confident through your expertise! Because of the training program I felt stronger, safer and more secure in every step on the trail. Improved fitness also meant I could really enjoy my surroundings rather than feeling puffed and miserable the whole time!
Thank you again so much! It has been a wonderful experience working with you and hopefully I'll have some more big trails coming up soon!"

Kathrin

"I started training with Summit Strength to help get prepared to thru-hike the Pacific Crest Trail. I would definitely recommend them to others. Their program and support is amazing and customized on your special needs. Sadly I had to realize I'm not the online program person and had to quit the program but I would definitely recommend trying if it fits you!"

MAnni

"I hired Summit Strength to help me prepare for the Annapurna Circuit trek in Nepal. Rowan worked with my existing injuries and strengthen my existing training to build up the skills I was lacking. I would absolutely recommend others to work with them - I feel much more prepared to take on this trek and I'm sure there will be another one in the near future." 

David

"In the short time I worked with Rowan his knowledge of fitness and nutrition required for trekking was evident. Unfortunately, I had to put the course on hold due to health issues Rowan was very supportive and understanding of my wellbeing I will definitely continue with the course before I attempt another trek Highly Recommend working with Rowan before your next trekking adventure."

hamish

"Rowan really helped me prepare for Kili. He identified which muscles groups needed the focus, worked on breathing techniques and build my aerobic fitness, as well as giving practical tips on trekking and climbing."

LEsa

​"My initial goal was to get fit for hiking in general, as I have so many hikes that I want to do but feel I am not ready or fit enough.
It was soooo easy to work with Rowan, he will cater to any level of fitness, and make you feel welcome and important which makes you want to work harder. We started from scratch with small exercises that I now really feel the benefit from.
Would I work with him again? Yes Yes Yes, I plan to get back in touch before I tackle my next big, tall, high adventure!"

Robert

"I hired Summit Strength to help prepare me for a mountaineering course in New Zealand. During the experience, I particularly enjoyed the regular emails with knowledge related to training for trekking and mountaineering. I would work with them again."

Jess

"I first hired Summit Strength to help with preparing to trek Everest Base Camp.  I found Rowan and the whole program to be fantastic. I like to be prepared and taking on an adventure like EBC is something that I know could potentially be very dangerous if not prepared properly. So having someone to learn from and bounce my concerns off has been invaluable!! Rowan is so easy to talk to and has been so helpful that I now feel like not only can I achieve my goal but I’ll enjoy every minute!! I had a specific question about my pre-existing chronic migraine and how this may impact my trek and Rowan went out of his way to research everything for me which I found to be beyond anything I expected.
Would I work with them again? Absolutely!! It was so straight forward and pushed through all the BS to pass on information that is either research-based or experience-based. Thank you for everything!"

Dan

"I first started working with Summit Strength to help improve my resilience over longer distances, with particular attention to managing a recurring lower back issue. They initially approached my particular challenge with a video assessment followed by graduated workout routines.  Rowan is very attentive, great at checking in without being pushy. I would absolutely work with them again and recommend them to others."

Gail

"I first hired Summit Strength to help prepare to trek the Heysen Trail end to end (1200km). Initially,  I underwent a thorough assessment to identify my physical strengths and weaknesses as well as injuries past and present.
It's been a while since I've seriously exercised and I've recently been suffering with persistent knee pain whilst hiking. I thought I'd enlist the assistance of Rowan after listening to his podcast "The Training for Trekking Podcast". I've learnt so much from his poddy, ways to eat to keep energy up for hours on end whilst hiking, strategies to improve my fitness, strength, mobility and trekking preparation, and most importantly ways to strengthen my annoying knee. What better person to help me prepare for the trek of my life than this seasoned professional. 
Rowan prepared my training plan and I threw myself into it. A little too vigorously because my body started to complain. After feeding back the issues I had with the exercises and identifying the movements that I wasn't comfortable with, Rowan kept expertly adjusting my plan to suit me. It's taken a few attempts. 
The best thing is that Rowan has always been kind compassionate and worked hard to understand how he can help. I appreciate the different exercises he substitutes into the sessions making my plan interesting and challenging. I even look forward to the gym now. It's made a HUGE difference to my hiking, my legs are stronger, my body feels more stable, and my knee pain is virtually non existent. My pack doesn't feel as heavy either.
I highly recommend Rowan and Summit Strength, also his podcast Training for Trekking."