

The Training For Mountaineering Podcast
Rowan Smith: Mountaineering Fitness Coach
The Training For Mountaineering Podcast is created to help mountaineers and alpinists best train, prepare and conquer their mountain adventures. Rowan shares with you the simple and proven training strategies to get you fit, strong and resilient for the mountain. Inside he dives into training, injury prevention, nutrition, mental strength and much much more. So you can have the best chance of a safe, enjoyable and successful adventure!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 5, 2025 • 17min
TFM65: How Mountaineers Can Build Strength Without Equipment
In this episode, I explore how a mountaineer can build some serious strength, even if they don't have access to dumbbells, barbells or machines to train on. I explore some simple loading strategies, a few of my favourite exercises for mountaineers and some simple tweaks to add challenge when needed. == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your mountaineering adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online-mountaineer.html

Nov 28, 2025 • 20min
TFM64: Circuit Training For Mountaineers
In this episode, I explore a few great methods of circuit training a mountaineer can use to help improve their fitness, strength and resilience for the mountains (which are MUCH more relevant than the typical approach to circuit training seen in the fitness industry). == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your mountaineering adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online-mountaineer.html

Nov 21, 2025 • 29min
TFM63: Maintaining Strength In The Mountains (Over A Long Season)
In this episode, we explore some ideas and strategies around how a mountaineer can maintain their strength (in a practical and effective way) during a long season in the mountains. == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your mountaineering adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online-mountaineer.html

Nov 14, 2025 • 6min
TFM62: Cool Downs For Mountaineers In Training
The value of cool-downs in mountaineering training is put to the test. Arguments suggest they may be overrated, with traditional practices like light walking and stretching failing to enhance recovery or reduce injuries. Instead, focusing training time on more effective workouts is recommended. Active recovery later can be a better option. However, for those under stress or with specific medical conditions, brief cool-downs may still be beneficial. Listeners are encouraged to prioritize what works best for their training.

Nov 7, 2025 • 27min
TFM61: A Simple Mountaineering Training Plan
Get ready to boost your mountaineering skills with a straightforward training plan! Discover how to balance simplicity with effectiveness while building strength and stamina. Learn about essential cardio workouts, effective strength routines, and the importance of deload weeks to prevent burnout. Explore the balance between monotony and progression as you prepare for your next adventure. It's all about keeping fit and resilient, whether for long-term fitness or specific trips!

Oct 31, 2025 • 17min
TFM60: Exercises Mountaineers Probably Don't Need To Be Doing
In this episode, I dive into a few exercises that I often see recommended for mountaineers, which, in all honesty, you probably don't need to be spending your time on. == Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online-mountaineer.html

Oct 17, 2025 • 16min
TFM59: 6 Pack Workouts For Mountaineers
Pack training is a foundation of all mountaineers' training. But if you are following a long-term training plan, these sessions can sometimes get a bit dull. To help, I'm sharing six different pack workouts you can use to add some variety to your sessions. == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your mountaineering adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online-mountaineer.html

Oct 10, 2025 • 16min
TFM58: Training Plans vs Coaching For Mountaineers
In this episode, we explore when a mountaineer might benefit more from having coaching and support, instead of just following a static training plan. == Want to get fit, strong and resilient for your mountaineering adventures? Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online-mountaineer.html

Oct 3, 2025 • 11min
TFM57: Your #1 Priority Before A Big Mountaineering Expedition
Discover the crucial pre-expedition precaution every mountaineer often overlooks. Learn how accumulated fatigue, stress, and lifestyle changes can lead to illness just before a big trip. Explore practical immune support steps to minimize sickness risk, from hygiene practices to stress management. Get travel-specific tips for staying healthy, including food adjustments and hydration strategies. Make health reminders a part of your taper routine to ensure you're in peak condition for your climb!

Sep 26, 2025 • 22min
TFM56: Eccentric Strength For Mountaineers
In this episode, we discuss the concept of eccentric strength and why putting some extra attention into this can be incredibly beneficial for mountaineers. == Check out the Online Summit Program: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/online-mountaineer.html


