Training for Everest 2026

While we are getting ready for the upcoming season and the groups are forming nicely for both Everest Climb and Everest Base Camp Trek, we thought it would be essential to share a few tips on the training for those who already prepare for Climb 2026 or considering it in the next years.

Training

The most important thing to think of when training for Mt. Everest is to remember “the better shape you're in, the easier and more enjoyable the climb”. You do not have to be an expert climber but should have lots of high altitude trekking and climbing experience. What you need is to have strong cardiovascular fitness and be in good climbing shape. Being mentally prepared and excited about the challenge is equally important in our opinion.

We encourage people to use a goal like this as an excuse to get in great shape. Part of the fun of going on expeditions is the preparation. It is a lot easier to go to the gym or hit the trail for a nice, hard hike if you know you are going to a mountain, and it is fun to see yourself getting more and more fit as the trip approaches. Our training mentality for big climbing peaks is to train to go up and over the mountain…. not just to get to the top.

This is the world’s highest mountain climb. Each individual should be in great “climbing shape” and capable of traveling for a full day with a relatively light pack that includes extra clothing, lunch, water bottles, camera, and some personal items for many days in a row on climbing rotations.

In short, the best way to get in shape for the trip is to start early, get on a nice regiment of walking in the hills, biking, walking up stairs, and running. A nice way to do it is to slowly increase your regimen as time goes on so you can feel that you are making progress. This general training regime assumes a 6-month program to use as a guideline.

Mental Preparation

Climbing Mt. Everest is a long term project to say the least. The most important part of preparing to climb Mt. Everest is to make it a “part of your life”. All aspects of normal life, including rest and stress levels, must be taken into account.

You are resting at 8000m for just hours before strapping on your crampons and going on a 12-hour summit climb to the highest spot on earth. Believe it is better to train in your mind, picturing yourself feeling strong.

Cardiovascular Preparation

The more prepared you are for the climbing days, the better your chances to have the stamina and longevity to make a successful summit bid.

Everest Base Camp Trek

For those focusing on Everest Base Camp Trek, all the training above applies, with emphasis on endurance and being comfortable walking long days with a pack.