Kangchenjunga
Everest
K2
Lhotse
Cho Oyu
Makalu
Gasherbrum II
Gasherbrum I
Broad Peak
Manaslu
Dhualagiri
Shishapangma
Nanga Parbat
Annapurna
What is your first step for the perfect climb? Ed shares his tips - from how to pick a hiking partner to what to eat at 14,000 feet - in Backpacker Magazine.
Click here to learn more.
Ed Viesturs is available for lectures at your next event. His lectures are based on his experiences from 27 years of climbing and include a PowerPoint presentation with dramatic expedition photos.
On April 25, 2008 Ed Viesturs and John Stetson will travel to the Canadian Arctic to mount a sledge hauling, ski journey of approximately 150 miles through one of the most beautiful and pristine areas of Northern Baffin Island. The theme for this expedition is Healthy Planet= Healthy People.
Their objective is twofold. First to utilize and familiarize themselves with the equipment, systems and strategy necessary for a possible future ski journey to the South Pole. An unsupported journey to the South Pole from the coast of Antarctica entails some 600 miles of travel and meticulous attention to detail as far as planning and preparation. The Canadian Arctic expedition would serve well as a shakedown for the longer Southern trip. The second objective is to showcase the effects of climate change already occurring in the Arctic regions. This would be highlighted by talking with the resident population of Inuit in the community of Pond Inlet and getting firsthand information from them about what changes they have seen and how they are adjusting, not only their lifestyles but also their subsistence hunting strategies.
The expedition should last for approximately 20 days and Viesturs and Stetson plan to make daily progress reports via satellite telephone. Check here on edviesturs.com for the dispatches.
Ed Viesturs sponsors and partners include Timberland, Rolex, Smartwool, Adventure Medical Kits, Grandoe Gloves, SOLE Custom foot beds and Talus Outdoor Technologies. Additional product support from MSR, Julbo, CAMP, DeLorme GPS, Acer Personal Locator Becons and Forty Below.
Follow Ed in the Arctic on GreatOutdoors.com
"My training philosophy has changed over my career. I train year round now. Early in my career, I would increase the intensity of training during the last two months prior to an expedition. Invariably, I would injure myself doing this and the end result was that I would have to lay off training recover in time for the climb.
"Training year round gives me the endurance and strength that I need during a long and arduous expedition. Climbing is so taxing on the body you cannot get fit during - you must be fit before you go. My training is guided by two principles: Simple and Steady. I focus on endurance and cardiovascular strength by running and lifting weights. Ultimately, there's no better training for climbing than strapping on a pack and heading out into the mountains. But, it is hard to always go climbing especially with a family and a business to run. I was forced to choose: be a vet or be a climber. I chose the mountains."
Running: Typically 7-8 miles a day on hilly roads (approximately 1 Hour) - 4 days on, 1 day off.
Weight Training: I try to train with weights two to three times a week. I work all parts of my body and try to focus on my core as well. The exercises I do simulate the movements that I make while climbing, lifting a pack, shoveling snow, and climbing steep and varied terrain. Many exercises are done while balancing on inflated half balls or while standing on one leg. I do a low number of sets with a high number of repetitions keeping the weight moderate for strength and endurance. This upper body work helps me when carrying a pack, shoveling a tent platform, and provides me general strength to make it through a long day in the mountains.
Other Activities: For variety, a little fun and to take advantage of the Northwest environment, I mix up my traditional training with biking, skiing, and kayaking. These are done in place of regular training and allow me to consistently work out different muscle groups.
Consistency: I travel a lot so I make a point of working out on the road. There is no excuse not to work out while traveling. I always make sure to get a hotel that has a descent gym. I get at least an hour on the stationary bike, treadmill, and stair-stepper and I'll also use the weight machines.