Training for a December Aconcagua expedition via the Normal Route and dialing in my weekly cardio and strength mix.
Right now, my core routine is:
- 2x weekly weighted stair climber sessions (graduating from 15 kg up to 25 kg, 60–75 mins, keeping strictly in Zone 2).
- 1x weekend outdoor trail hike with vertical gain (3–5 hours, full expedition pack).
- 2x basic full-body strength/stability sessions (step-ups, Bulgarian split squats, core).
How much total weekly volume were people averaging 12–16 weeks out? Did anyone find steep outdoor hill repeats significantly better than machine-based stair work for preventing knee fatigue on the long carry days?