Course structure and outline

We are together for the next 10 weeks – connecting each Monday night at 6.30pm over Zoom. Each week we will cover a new topic and if required, review past topics. The lesson format is:

• Teaching session
• Q&A (this is YOUR opportunity to ask any questions ie clarification, your particular situation, training help etc) and it is optional if you wish to stay on for this.
• Each session will be recorded and available here in the Course Portal TWO days after the session – so the recordings will generally be up by the Wednesday afternoon following the session
• You will have access to the course for a full SIX months from the course start date. So until March 2024.
• Each week there is an Accountability Check In within the Private Facebook Group. This is great for moving forward and motivation.

Here’s an outline of what we will cover in each session. Session One (this is our longest session)

• Introductions –
  • Course leader and YOU. We will ask you to share a brief introduction on yourself – where you live, why you joined the course and what you want most from the course.
  • For some, speaking up is the hardest. But don’t worry – this is a super supportive group.
• Turning Adventure Dreams to Reality
  • Overcoming the “oh %H!T” moment.
  • Defining your Adventure Style & Creating Your Adventure Blueprint
  • Identifying your current Hiking Fitness Level
• Getting Started with Hiking Fitness.
  • How to build a Hiking Fitness Plan that works for you & your adventure.

Session Two: TOPIC: Fitness & Hiking Skills – getting stuck into the plan.

• Hiking & Your Body
• The importance of Functional Fitness
• Why consistency matters

Session Three: TOPIC Gear & Equipment.

• Understanding your packing list
• What’s needed & what’s nice to have
• What to look for & where to buy.

Session Four: TOPIC – Hiking techniques

• How to safely hike downhill
• Avoiding knee pain when hiking downhill
• The Bridesmaids step for uphill hiking
• The “snakes & ladders” method for technical trails
• How to use hiking poles

Session Five: TOPIC Clothing

• Layering
• Wet Weather Gear
• Clothing systems

Session Six: TOPIC Hikers Mindset & Motivation

• Maintaining motivation
• Gap vs Gain
• Taking advice

Session Seven: TOPIC – All about the backpack

• How to choose the right pack for you
• How to pack a backpack

Session Eight: TOPIC – Preparation for the Trail

• Trail gradings, signage
• Seasonal Packing
• Trail Etiquette
• Safety on the trail including First Aid suggestions, technology etc.

Session Nine: TOPIC – Going Forward

• Hiking Fitness Review
• Administration – Protecting Yourself – Paperwork, Travel Insurance & other stuff you need to know.

Session TEN: TOPIC – Bringing it all together

• What’s next
• Staying hike fit
• Maintaining Gear & Equipment