Now is the time to shake the fat off the booty! Hopefully you have been gradually losing some pounds and stayed active through the spring and summer. With hunting season just around the corner, we need to start getting our Fit on.
No one needs to carry any extra weight afield. Our gear, weapons, and essentials are heavy enough. Packing out your harvest is also a consideration. Dropping 10 -20 lbs. of unwanted fat will certainly help you be a more sleek and stealthy predator.
Even if you do not hunt, we all feel better after getting Fit before our winter hibernation. As most of us Older Grey Bucks know, it gets harder to stay fit as we age. If we want to maintain our trophy status, we need to work harder to still maintain our prowess.
Walking and swimming are great ways to stay active and conditioned. Both methods exercise the heart and do minimal wear to our joints. Changing speeds and intensity help you to lose fat and build muscle. Remember that muscle is heavier than fat so just losing weight is not our goal.
Eating healthy is also important. Summertime offers fresh veggies and menu options that are different and tasty. Lean meats and healthy fuels will feed the beast within you. Portion control is most important. Start your engine each morning with something. Many of us tend to skip breakfast which is the most important meal of the day. Healthy snacks and fluids will address hunger pangs. Do not eat a huge meal just before bedtime.
Maintaining muscle tone is most important. There is a difference between being in shape and being in game shape. You will know when you have met your goals. When we were young and invincible, we never much cared about staying fit. Sadly, that changes as we age. Most of my “Invincible” hunting and fishing buddies are now beached couch potatoes.
Years ago I elk hunted with a Montanan that was way older than me. We hunted the Belts above the Musselshell River. Joe could go faster uphill than down. I thought that I was in great shape until I tried to keep up. We hiked many miles and covered a lot of country. Joe was never even winded.
One thing that he introduced me to was Propel, a sports drink that helps to prevent cramps and hydrates well. I never leave home without it! Fluids are critical when exercising and pushing yourself to the max. Being comfortable and feeling good makes you a better and more successful outdoorsman.
Every aspect of hunting and fishing requires strength and flexibility. Make sure to routinely stretch and stay limber in case you go “Timber”. Falling and slipping can cause instant problems for your knees and joints. Practice exercise strategies that strengthen your shoulders, knees, ankles, and neck.
Medicating can help. Small amounts of Ibuprofen or your favorite pain and inflammation meds help. Most headaches are a result of dehydration. Always carry an emergency kit of a few tablets and first aid needs. A rolled bandage or stretchy style knee brace are helpful. Booze or other inappropriate drugs have no place afield. They rob you of your reactions, senses, and safety. Save that for around the campfire after the outdoor adventure.
Compression wear pants and tops are amazing and comfortable. You can find them for hot or cold conditions. They breathe and compress at the same time. The holding together of your muscles and joints is noticeable. This compression gear also helps to improve circulation of blood which feds your muscles the oxygen that they need when being used hard.
No matter what lifestyle that you have, keeping our bodies in tune is needed. Routine maintenance will ensure a long and healthy life.
Use it or lose it!
Montana Grant
For more Montana Grant, visit his website at www.montanagrantfishing.com
