| You
have booked your safari, now the fun begins. Are
you in the proper physical condition for the trip?
If you are like most of us, the answer is probably "no." This
should not be of concern to the average client
as most hunters who enjoy the outdoors maintain a
reasonable
level of conditioning throughout the year. The
bottom line is that you do not have to be able to
run a
marathon
to enjoy your safari. In fact, a typical safari
does not require the same level of conditioning as
an
elk hunt in the Rockies. Your African safari will require you to be able to walk
sometimes 5-6 hours, perhaps 8 to 10 miles if hunting
Cape buffalo and they are motivated. Temperatures will
be in the mid 70s to mid 80s. The terrain varies from
flat ground to rolling hills with an occasional mountain
to climb. The typical day can be quite long, as you leave
camp before the sun is up and return after dark. Most
safaris are from 10-21 days in length, which is generally
longer than the average hunt in North America. This said,
a safari will require some conditioning prior to your
departure. The main exercise that should be focused on is walking.
Start by buying a good quality pair of hunting/walking
shoes, the ones you plan on wearing during the safari.
Do not wait until the week before your departure to purchase
your shoes. Buy them now. These shoes should be lightweight
with soft rubber soles. Any of the hiking type, over
the ankle style, will work. In fact, many professional
hunters actually wear tennis shoes to hunt. The important
thing is to buy a pair that is lightweight, quiet, and
comfortable. Next, set aside a schedule that allows you to walk for
at least an hour each day, a minimum of 5 days per week.
Walk at a comfortable pace, yet as rapidly as you are
able. By the time you leave for your safari, you need
to be able to walk a minimum of 5 miles. At the end of
your walk, you should be able to be in good enough condition
to make a shot, if required. If you are able, mix in
some slow jogging with your walk. Now you are starting
to simulate the safari game! A
safari is a wonderful experience that will be greatly
enhanced if you are in reasonably good physical condition.
In addition, your chances are much greater of collecting
top quality trophies if you are in good physical shape.
Time is on your side–take the time now to be in
the best physical condition for your safari.
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