Getting you Ready!

The Kokoda Track is located in remote mountainous jungle terrain in a tropical region. The climate is hot, humid and can be very wet. Much of the area is inaccessible by helicopter and remote from the nearest medical facility in Port Moresby. The eight day trek itself is physically demanding and strenuous.

How do you start to get yourself ready? Begin with the topics covered in this section:

The Facts - You must be physically and mentally fit!

Why do people say the Kokoda Track is a tough challenge and something you need to be very fit for? Surely they are just weak or making out it is harder than it is. At No Roads Expeditions we believe you can do it, but we don't want to kid you, it is a tough trek.

Steep Climbs/Descents
The expedition crosses the Owen Stanley Ranges which has many steep ridges meaning you will experience long, tiring climbs and long knee-killing descents, some lasting 3-4 hours each. Add mud, rocks, tree roots, creeks and other obstacles - nothing you will find in your gym!
 
Expedition is 8 days
One or two days of trekking could be tough, 8 days is tough for most! Exhaustion and fatigue creep in after a few days so it is important to be as fit as possible to reduce the impact of fatigue. After 3-4 days your body will begin to adjust to the daily routine. Are you training over multiple consecutive days?
Hot and humid
Unless you live in a tropical climate, perhaps in north Queensland or similar, the humidity and temperature will zap your energy fast. It is difficult to train for this and the fitter you are, the better you will be able to handle the energy drain which begins as you arrive in Port Moresby and fully kicks in on your first ascent up to Deniki on day 1.
Do you give up easily?
Some say the trek is 70% mental toughness and 30% physical toughness. You are required to concentrate all day to avoid, slips, trips, or other injuries. The ground is unstable, full of hazards and every foot placement requires thought to avoid an injury. Your body will be sore for several days. This is quite taxing over 8 days.
Wear a backpack to work?
Most people would say no. Wearing a pack, even a day pack with minimal items can be a shock and difficult for some. The straps will pull down on your shoulders and cut into your hips. Walking with a pack for a day in training is okay, but try 8 days non stop!
No escape!
There is no way, short of an evacuation, to pull out of the Track if the going gets too tough. And in some situations, to get to the nearest evacuation point still requires significant physical exertion. Fitness helps reduce the risk of injury or mental fatigue. 
Exercise Regime
Walking the dog a few extra days a week does not cut it! You need a workout that pushes your body to an above average level of fitness, where walking up a steep hill does not leave you gasping for air.
So you are fit already?
Excellent, this will help. We still recommend you train with a backpack up and down some steep hills to ensure your body is prepared. Train off footpaths and get used to hiking over uneven surfaces.
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Together we will take you on an adventure of your lifetime!
Read more about fitness ideas, training walks and tailored fitness programs.