Several years ago, I spent opening weekend in Iowa
hunting pheasants in knee-high grass. Although I was
in good cardio condition, I was not ready physically
to handle "knee ups" all day long. The next day, I
paid for it.
The following are three options to help
condition yourself to the rigors of upland
hunting.
S l t i
Upland Hunting
Cardio
Start slowly and allow yourself plenty
of time to get in condition. Start with 20
minutes initially and increase up to 45
minutes.
Treadmill – Gradually add incline to
simulate walking on uneven ground.
Outside – Walk hills as well as on flat
ground two to three times per week.
Upper Body
Resistance training, or strength training,
is important to strengthen your arms and
shoulders for carrying a gun.
Resistance Bands – Bicep curls and
shoulder raises can easily be done with
bands.
Dumbbells or Curl Bar – Continue
with the bicep curls and shoulder raises.
Remember to use enough weight to
make it difficult to finish the last couple
repetitions.
Two-three sets per exercise with 10-12
reps.
Lower Body
Body Squats – This exercise will help to
condition your upper thighs. Use your own
weight to start with and eventually you
can use a weighted ball or kettlebell. If you
have access to a plyometric box, use it to
step up and down. Another option would
be to go up and down your stairs several
times.
30 Nebraskaland • June 2021
ERIC FOWLER, NEBRASKALAND
ALL EXERCISE PHOTOS – JEFF KURRUS, NEBRASKALAND
