How to Prepare Physically for an Antelope Hunt in New Mexico?

Question

Accepted Answer

Conditioning for High Altitude When hunting in New Mexico’s high desert, it’s essential to acclimatize to the altitude to avoid altitude sickness. Arrive in the area 3-5 days before the hunt to allow your body to adjust to the lower oxygen levels. Spend time at higher elevations, such as the Jemez Mountains (6,000-7,000 feet) or the San Juan Mountains (7,000-8,000 feet), and engage in low-intensity exercise like hiking or walking to build up your endurance. Aim to ascend to higher elevations gradually, allowing your body to adapt to the increased altitude.
Building Leg Strength Antelope hunting involves long hours of hiking, often in rugged terrain, so building strength in your legs is crucial. Incorporate exercises like squats, lunges, and leg press into your workout routine, aiming to do 3 sets of 10-12 reps per exercise 2-3 times a week. Focus on exercises that target your calf muscles, as they play a significant role in balance and stability on uneven terrain. Additionally, practice hiking with a loaded pack (around 40-50 pounds) to build up your endurance and strength.
Core and Balance Exercises In addition to building leg strength, it’s essential to focus on exercises that improve your core stability and balance. Incorporate exercises like planks, side planks, and single-leg squats into your workout routine, aiming to hold each position for 30-60 seconds and doing 3 sets per exercise 2-3 times a week. These exercises will help improve your balance and stability on uneven terrain, reducing your risk of injury and improving your overall hunting performance.