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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!" |
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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. |
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KErriKerri talks about how training with Rowan in the gym has helped her understand her own body and strength better and change what she thought a training session should look like. When the COVID-19 crises hit and gyms had to close, how outdoor workouts and injury-prevention focused workout program helped her to overcome a few long-standing issues.
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ValerieValerie talks about how training with Rowan through the Online Summit Program helped her prepare for her upcoming trip to hike the New Mexico section of the Continental Divide Trail. She explains why a personalised approach was so important for her, how she overcame a few roadblocks in the process and why she enjoyed the online training so much.
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JoanAt 61 years old, Joan decided to do her first thru-hike on the Pacific Crest Trail. Learn how she used the Online Summit Program to overcome knee pain during descents, strengthen her joints and give her the physical confidence to tackle her big adventure.
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Andrea"I have had chronic ongoing knee pain for years and just accepted that this was my lot in life. I use poles. I dreaded descents. A couple of months ago I happened upon Summit Strength and their Hikers' Knee program. Turns out, I was just ridiculously weak in areas of my body that I assumed I'd be strong in just from hiking. Rowan at Summit Strength asked me to send some assessment videos to him (I'm doing it online) and he knew exactly what I needed to work on. He has tailored an individual program for me. In just over 2 months, my knee pain has reduced considerably. And so much so that once my 12-week program is finished I will be continuing with more progression in a new program. The difference has been astounding! I just completed a three-day hike with a total of around 55km which is huge for me. My knee was awesome! My thoughts? Don't rely on hiking alone to build strength and endurance in the muscles that support you for hiking. And don't go for bandaid solutions on a permanent basis such as strapping, painkillers etc (unless advised by your health professional). From just 8 weeks of proper strength work from someone who specialises in programs for hikers and mountaineers, I can now hike almost pain-free. Check him out! Read his reviews. And don't suffer when you don't need to."
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MarkMark approached Summit Strength with a big hiking goal. He wanted to post a 'Fastest Known Time' on a 130-mile hiking trail. Initially, he wanted to hike 26 miles a day (equivalent to a marathon a day), entirely unsupported for five days. But in preparing for this, he knew he needed to overcome recurring ankle and knee pain while hiking, work on his balance and improve his overall endurance to hike longer days. In the end, Mark accomplished his goal in a total of 3d 18h 53m 34s, which is more than 30 miles a day!
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AliAli started working with Summit Strength to prepare her for her first thru-hike, the Te Araroa Trail in New Zealand. Learn how the Online Summit Program allowed her to hike day after day on the trail, without any aches or pains.
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RhondaRhonda started working with Summit Strength to prepare her to solo hike the Overland Track in Tasmania. Learn how she used the Hiker's Knee Prevention Program to get ready for this big adventure.
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TishaTisha started working with Summit Strength to help prepare to section hike one of the big hiking trails in the USA. Learn how she used the Online Summit Program to physically prepare for an incredibly strenuous section of the Appalachian Trail.
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Jodie"I first hired Summit Strength to help improve joint pain that was impacting not only my hiking but also my day to day life. |
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Stephen"I signed up with Summit Strength to help with good plantar/foot health on the trail. |
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dessie"I'm 50 next year, I am not a spring chicken, I am not a skinny or muscly guy, I have a grandchild. And I know if I hadn't done something now, I would have just grew old... and not be able to run around with the grandchild... but thankfully I did find you, and got that guidance... and I can now get up the mountain faster than the young scouts I take out. " |
Allie Pepper"Since working with Rowan, I have become Australia's most accomplished female high altitude mountaineer. In the last two years with the help of Rowan's coaching I have achieved the summits of six 8000m peaks. |
Susan"Six months ago I decided to make a bid for the top of Kilimanjaro. I am 67, and I nearly died twice in 2020. I had some health issues and injuries to overcome, and I knew that in order to get to the top of Kili, I needed to do everything I could to train properly. I searched for podcasts about hiking and climbing, and that's when I discovered Rowan Smith and Summit Strength. I listened to every podcast on the list, and some I listened to twice. I loved Rowan's "no nonsense" approach to training and decided to sign up for his online personal training program. It was the best decision I could have made. |
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!" |
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. |
Jenni"I hired Summit Strength to help keep me moving and hiking through plantar pain, as well as to help train for a 1000 miles of hiking in 2022. |
Kris"I stared working with Summit STrength to be ready to do the Tour du Mont Blanc comfortably and with little knee pain, |
Gina"I hired Summit Strength to help continue my rehabilitation of fractured knee to allow me continued long distance hiking |
Cath"My goal was to enjoy and complete all the walks we have booked for 2022 and know we can continue to walk with confidence in the coming years. |
Andi"I wanted to work with Summit Strength to learn training techniques specific to hiking and avoiding hiking pain from previous injuries. |
Gwyn"I hired Summit Strength to help me prepare to hike 14ers in Colorado |
Leonardo"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. |
Alyce"I worked with Summit Strength to be able to enjoy conquering the Larapinta trail in 9 days and to work with my injuries. They provided strength workouts to support my injuries and a training plan. |
Josh"The summer climbing has gone GREAT! All objectives met and felt good for each of them. I think the best one was Mt. Olympus in Washington. Only an 8000-foot peak, but we started at basically sea level, and had a 17-mile approach just to get to the mountain. We got it done, and I felt good the whole time!" |
Steven"I hired Summit Strength to develop a strengthen program to compliment the physical therapy I was doing for the planter fascia tear in my left foot. |
Leanne"I started working with Summit Strength to get ready to trek the Overland Track in Tasmania. |
Roger"I've done a lot of hiking in the last few years and I saw areas that I wanted to improve, such as my hiking speed and I thought I could hike more efficiently. So I think overall the goal was to learn how to use my energy more efficiently so I would be more refreshed at the end of a hike. |
Maria"I hired Summit Strength to help strengthening my ankles for hiking, specific to pain and discomfort in this area. |
Emma & Trevor"We worked with Summit Strength to prepare us for upcoming treks in the Himalayas. |
Teresa L."I found the Summit Strength program while listening to the Training for Trekking and Hiking podcast. Rowan conveys such a passion for enabling people to enjoy hiking without pain. I had suffered from IT Band knee pain for 6+ years, visiting numerous doctors and physical therapists. I found one therapist that helped keep my knee pain at bay while running marathons, but nothing kept the pain away while hiking - especially the downhills. The whole way up a mountain I would dread the downhill, making hikes this internal war of joy, dread, and inevitable pain. Rowan spoke with conviction that you didn't have to accept life with pain while hiking. He gave examples of seeing people cycle thru temporary fixes only to wind up back in the same pain or seeing trainers giving people wrong advice that didn’t help. I identified with his examples because I’d lived them. I kept thinking, should I try this? But like most people, I put it off! In August 2020, I finished a difficult 21+ mile hike in Washington state, where I had the worst pain I’d experienced in years. I came home with the same mixed feelings of joy for finishing, but disappointment at my body’s pain-filled performance. I thought: Something has to change if I want to keep hiking. I looked at Rowan’s program again and thought: What's to lose? I've tried most everything else, why not give this a chance? Still a little sceptical, I signed up. |
Deb"I initially joined Summit Strength as I had a 1000km/7 week hike that I was planning to do (Little did I know then that Covid had other plans). 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. |
Dennis"My initial goal was to lose weight and regain hiking fitness after a prolonged illness. My training was specifically tailored to my level of fitness, and the one-on-one interaction made it so much easier to deal with the ups & downs of the daily routine. |
Marita"I started working with Summit Strength to prepare to hike from Telegraph station to Sealers cove at Wilson's Promontory. |
KElli"I really enjoyed the accountability of the App, and the email check-in. I found that was key to the entire experience. If you're not held accountable AND you don't have good systems and habits in place, it's easy to not do something. I would most definitely work with Summit Strength again and recommend them to others, having the accountability is what really made the difference for me." |
Sue"After completing the Mountain Strong Ankle Challenge, the increase in ankle strength has helped me feel more confident where the terrain is more rugged and it’s a great feeling to have! |
Diane"I first hired Summit Strength because I wanted to reduce/eliminate knee pain on descents during hiking. After some tests, Rowan designed a targeted training program to strengthen all the muscles around my knee … in other words, all my leg muscles. This included some weighted hikes. |
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Karen"I started working with Summit Strength to regain some fitness after 2020, which limited so much of my usual exercise routines. I want to be ready to tackle the walking and trekking I have planned for in the Himalayas. |
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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! |
Andrea"After having participated in the 5 days Hiker's Knee Challenge and seen results already, it was a no brainer to engage in the Hiker’s Knee 12-Week Prevention Program. I have been suffering from knee pain for some 18 months now and joined the program to reduce the pain. The strength exercises, combined with the life hacks shared in the emails, however, caused the pain to almost disappear. Winter is the worst time for my knee, and even though we have been through an entire winter month already my knee is behaving nicely even in the cold/wet weather. |
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." |
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.” |
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." |
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. |
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." |
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!" |
William
"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!" |
Jackie"The training program you created for me was perfect. It really did prepare me. It really did ready my knees, ankles, shoulders, arms, and back for the hike. The balance exercises kept me safe on so many occasions. And those squats got me up, down, and over endless tree roots and rocks. The confidence I had because of the preparation had me believing from the start that I could do it one day at a time. |
Tamra"My goal was to shed some extra pounds and build strength to complete a multi-day backpacking trip into the wilderness on challenging terrain and altitude. |
Lynne"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. |
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." |
Emily D."I started working with Summit Strength to increase strength and stamina for future backpacking and thru-hiking adventures. Rowan created a custom plan for me that would help me reach my goals without being injured or over-trained. I felt supported through the entire process. Not only is Rowan an amazing knowledgeable trainer and resource, but the Summit Strength community is very supportive. I will continue to work with them because my progress and experience has been so good." |
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. |
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!" |
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." |
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! |
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. |
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. |
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!" |
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." |
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. |
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. |
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." |
Bree"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. |
Stephanie"I started working with Summit Strength to help prepare to participate in adventure travel and ensure I enjoy the experience to the fullest. |
Jacqueline"I started working with Summit Strength to kick start me back into workout mode. |
Michelle T."I hired Summit Strength to help mebegin training for upcoming hiking trips. |
Linda R"I started working with Summit Strength to help me prepare for my hike on the Bibblumum track. |
Kate H"I hired Summit Strength to help improve my fitness in order to undertake an adventure trek |
Mary Lu"I hired Summit Strength to help prepare me to go on my first hiking vacation to Zion and Bryce National Parks. |
Lu"I started working with Summit Strength to help manage knee pain while hiking and become adventure ready. |
Cate"I wanted to be more confident and stronger to hike without injuries, enjoy my hiking. I wanted to learn more techniques, strategies for coping on the trail. More importantly knowing what to do on the trail for any aliments that can crop up. Learning how the recover. |
Kathy"I hired Summit Strength to help alleviate foot pain and get stronger for hiking. I’d had some prior experience with personal trainers and online race prep plans, but Rowan’s approach is much more holistic and intuitive. He takes a personal interest in his clients because he genuinely cares about helping them, and he really knows his stuff. |
Alex"I hired Summit Strength to help prepare for a 50km Ultra Marathon in the Victorian High Country. |
Melanie D."I very much enjoyed your training program and I built up a lot of strength, skills and knowledge. I would highly recommend it as a unique program for hikers. I would love to do it again at some point. In the meantime I will keep on with the knowledge and principles that I've learned from Summit Strength." |
Alison W."I first started working with Summit Strength to prepare for the 3 Capes hike, and later the Larapinta trail. Summit Strength created a program that fit into my schedule that would prepare me for the challenges ahead |
Karen"I first hired Summit Strength to help Rehab post-lower-back L4/5 microdiscectomy surgery (after the early stages of rehab/recovery). |
Tanya"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. |
Steven"I worked with Summit Strength in preparation for a Dolomites hike in September of 2021. I was very happy with Rowan Smith. He was patient, the Program focuses on exactly what we need to physically and mentally prepare for. On top of this there were lots of learning aids, thoughtful sets of exercises and periodic phone calls. The whole process was very complete and it was much appreciated." |
Libby"I really appreciated the tailoring of the training program to my preferences, and the promptness, support and encouragement in response to my emails and queries. |
Jennifer"I first started working with Summit Strength to Enhance my endurance on JMT (John Muir Trail) section hikes. Throughout, he provided a structured program and easy access to useful information. It’s awesome experience. I have already recommended Summit Strength program to other hikers." |
La June"I started working with Summit Strength to improve my overall fitness for a major hike. Rowan is amazing. He offered in-depth counseling, designed a stellar program, and regularly made tweaks. |
Loretta"I started working with Summit Strength to gain insight into climbing a mountain and to successfully achieve this as strong as possible. |
Claire"I first started working with Summit Strength to manage chronic knee, hip, and lower back pain, and to be able to sleep in my tent without pain keeping me awake when bushwalking. |
DEB"I first started working with Summit Strength to regain strength, mobility and fitness after injury. Initially, a thorough assessment was undertaken, information was collated about my concerns, habits, goals, current limitations, likes and dislikes and I was provided with a comprehensive report. |
Krystal"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. |
Julie"I started working with Summit Strength to increase my fitness and strength with the goal of completing the Larapinta trail in 10 months' time. I love how the program is tailored to my fitness, strength and goals. |
Zoe"I hired Summit Strength to generally feel less 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. |
Marianne"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. |
Aparna"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 every 4 to 5 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. |
Renee"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. We had 6 and 12 week assessments to track our progress and Rowan was available for team coaching sessions and one on one coaching sessions if required. 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. |
Greg"Working with Rowan was great. Initially, I was sceptical about online training, but Rowan makes the training program, delivery of it through the app and follow-up so customized to what you are trying to accomplish it that it just works. Easy to see the path to success, execute it and realize results. The variety of exercise improved my strength and flexibility. I'm certain I'll use Rowan again in the future when preparing for a major trek." |
Joy"Since joining the Online Summit Program with you, I have learnt so much about training for hikers and the way in which you produce the Training Programs has been so easy for me to follow and have had the best results for me. |
Kirsty"I started working with Summit Strength to help train for a series of day hikes to Mt LeConte. Rowan was always very responsive and provided wonderful individualized information as well as lots of very helpful general hiking related information. I really appreciated how much thought he put into my own personal hiking questions and needs. I would definitely recommend this to a friend!" |
Dee"I contacted Rowan as I had seen some of his posts on social media (Facebook) and I liked the idea of focussing on exercises specifically to help with knee strength. As I have got older, I have certainly felt the knee pain increasing especially on steep downhill walks. Time to do something about it! |
Susanne"My initial short-term (3-month goal) was to get fit for the Bibbulmun Track. The long-term goal was to get fitter for hiking in general. Initially, I went through a taped video assessment which Rowan used to analyze my strengths and weaknesses. which was then followed by an individualized training program. Rowan was very quick to respond to issues, e.g. when I advanced to another level, one of the exercises didn't agree with me. Rowan replaced it with something more appropriate. Would I recommend the training to other hikers? Absolutely! Rowan is amazing to prepare an individual training program, adapt it as needs arise. I love the ease of using and communicating through the app" |
JAne"My initial goal was to get fitter and stronger for hikes. I feel that the program certainly helped to develop strength in the legs and core for hiking, and it helped me to be consistent and committed to training for an extended timeframe. |
Tisha"My goal was simply to get into a daily routine of exercises to prep for my hike (section hiking on the PCT) and I feel that I have accomplished that, but I will be continuing on because I enjoyed this challenge so much and I feel I have a lot left to do! |
Catherine
"I very much enjoyed the training. I liked that it wasn't too hard or complex. The whole experience was very positive. I can totally see how Rowan would help me achieve my goal. The feedback I got in the 1st week of carrying my pack, little things to adjust totally changed my experience from then on. From me thinking 'I could never do a pack carry', I now am looking forward to getting stronger and progressing to carrying my full pack. |
Chris"At age 57 I decided to finally tackle a dream I’d had for over 40 years: to thru-hike the Ozark Highlands trail. I was woefully out of shape and, as Principal in a coaching/training business and Partner in a law firm, had no time to go to the gym. By the grace of God, I happened on a podcast that featured Rowan - this crazy Aussie who provided online training to people preparing for big adventures – and I figured I had nothing to lose. One conversation, a few short evaluation videos, and a website link later, and I was on my way. |
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". |
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. |
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! |
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. |
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. |
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." |
Odalys"My trip to Grand Tetons and Yellowstone was wonderful. Thanks to your training help I was able to ascend first 500+ feet, then 800+ ft, and gradually up 3,150ft to the mouth of Garnet Canyon at 8,885 feet (not bad for a Floridian). On top of this, I didn't suffer any knee pain throughout my trip!" |
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. |
Ali"The workouts have been great and I've really appreciated being able to rely on & trust in your expertise to structure a programme according to my goals (in both the short term and my longer term goal of the Te Araroa). It has removed the uncertainty for me of knowing whether my training is being productive or am I just wasting my time.... which is how I felt prior to the program. |
Peter"I am quite fit and exercise regularly but I wanted specific focus toward building strength and endurance in my legs in order to protect myself (particularly knees) after scrambles and on downhills. I also had never done any specific training for hiking / scrambling - I just went out and did the activity. |
Ann"After not wanting to repeat the disappointment of dropping out of a trek due to injury, I decided it was time to get some expert help preparing for Everest Base Camp. Rowan is definitely an expert in what he does. He’s got a view of what the most important things you need to know about trekking and altitude are, and shares that through his online training so you don’t have to be overwhelmed by all the information out there. |
HelenI first started working with Summit Strength to prepare for an end to end hike on the Bibbulmun Track. Specifically, I wanted help with nutrition and mental health strategies. |
SonyaMy goal was to train (get in shape) to hike Mt Whitney. I hired Summit Strength to train and educate me about hiking which I learned a massive amount, such as: it isn’t just get out and walk; you need to strengthen your knees, quads, glutes and ankles to bear the load of days of hiking; there are reasons and ways of training for aerobic endurance; crucial foot care; importance of trekking poles; altitude (elevation); nutrition; mindset. Sure, you can throw an ill-fitted pack on and hike without poles but I’ll be passing you by and enjoying myself because I was physically and mentally prepared and my body isn’t so severely taxed. |
PauliusAll in all I'm very happy with my performance in rogaining and I'm very thankful to you, Rowan! With your help I achieved something I wasn't sure I could ever achieve. |
LaraI had this loose plan about a solo backpacking trip and a summit of Mount Whitney with 2 women friends from work, who were 20yrs younger than me. I tried to organize a training schedule for myself, and quickly became overwhelmed - and to be honest- kind of panicked. |
AudreyI initially joined with Summit Strength to help increase ankle mobility |
PetaI first hired Summit Strength to help me get stronger and fitter to hike longer and to (eventually) hike the Larapinta Trail for 6 days. |
BruceI first hired Summit Strength to help me successfully be able to hike in the Faroe Islands. Summit Strength provided a set of exercises to strengthen my body. |
AboutSummit Strength is a personal training for hiking service created specifically to help hikers have the best chance of a safe, enjoyable and successful adventure.
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