I hope everyone is healthy (or planning on/actively working towards better physical health).

I've been at it since my brother died in 2005. I started lifting light weights as a 12 year-old in my bedroom at night as a way of coping with his death. Now, at 31, I still exercise every single day.

I won't go through the various physical activities that are part of my routine - they are extensive and want to keep this fairly short. But I thought I'd (re-list) a few activities that are very relevant to getting your body prepared for a wilderness trip.

1) Rucking. I ruck walk with 2 fifteen pound dumbells and a small blanket (for padding) inside of a backpack. Not ideal. A weighted vest would be much better. I believe there is a company that specializes in rucking equipment.

2) Farmer Carries. I vary the weight. I'll go as heavy as 100 pounds in each hand (so 200 pounds total) and as light as 50 pounds in each hand.

3) Rowing.

Not everyone has access to heavy dumbbells and row machines. But you can always get started with improving your strength and conditioning by simply doing bodyweight workouts with a minimum amount of space. Something is better than nothing. None of this is reinventing the wheel by any means... I just wanted to give some positive encouragement to the good folks on this forum!