Challenge: “The Simulator”

Test your readiness to backcountry hunt in steep and deep country so you’re prepared for the heavy packout. https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/blog/onx-hunt-x-mtntough-challenge-the-simulator

“Steep slope angles can be devastating in the backcountry if you don’t train specifically for the mobility and stability needed to handle high angles under heavy load. onX enables hunters to learn the slope of their hunting area and this workout allows you to train for the demands of the mountains regardless of where you live.” ~ MTNTOUGH Founder, Dustin Diefenderfer

Why:
This workout is called “The Simulator.” It simulates the demands placed on the body at high elevation, rugged loose terrain and steep angles. Based on experiences that the onX crew had packing out a bull — and the challenges they faced in the backcountry — the onX crew teamed up with MTNTOUGH to design a simulation/workout to prepare you for packing into a steep slope backcountry area and packing out a bull. The onX slope angle feature exposes highly challenging terrain a backcountry hunter may face when hunting, harvesting, field dressing and packing out meat from a 700- to 1,100-pound animal. Use onX’s terrain analysis tools to scout for this scenario in your hunting area while e-scouting. MTNTOUGH will get you physically ready to perform and stay safe during a highly exhaustive and difficult packout. Remember that “game day” should be your easiest day when preparing for an athletic event. The same holds true in mountain hunting. If you prepare for your hunt with intentionality you will have a far better experience in the mountains.

What: Perform these movements to replicate an actual pack into and out of the mountains. With “The Simulator,” you will experience steep terrain in a gym setting and test your mountain readiness. Regardless of your geographic location, you can train for the mountains using the onX Challenge Simulator Workout. Please note: If you are just starting out or getting back into the fitness game please take the time to try MTNTOUGH’s Bodyweight On-Ramp Program (https://lab.mtntough.com/bodyweight-on-ramp) prior to taking on “The Simulator.”

How: It is important to complete the warmup in its entirety in order to gain the full effect of this workout. Take the time to execute proper form. By using the “Slope Angle” function in onX, you can determine the exact steepness of the terrain you will be hunting. You prepare by scouting, but you should also prepare by training.