Deer Hunting
Cardio
Walk – Strap a backpack on and go for
a long walk. Find an area that you can
go up and down a slight incline. As your
conditioning improves, adjust your pace to
a fast walk.
Treadmill – If you have access to a
treadmill, you can do the same. Steadily
increase your time and distance as your
conditioning increases.
Rowing Machine – If you have
access, a rowing machine is a great way
to acclimate your body to the pulling
movement of dragging a deer out or
pulling equipment.
Upper Body
Lat Pulldowns – If you have access
to a pull-down machine or TRX bands,
these are perfect for building upper body
strength. Make sure you're using weight
that's challenging.
Two-three sets at 12-15 reps.
Lower Body
Lunges – Maybe one of the most
important leg exercises when preparing
for long walks on uneven ground. You
can start with a standing lunge and
then progress to walking lunges as your
condition improves. Do not allow your knee
to go over your toe to get the most benefit
and to prevent putting too much stress on
your knees.
32 Nebraskaland • June 2021
Although I'm not a deer hunter, I've heard
plenty of stories from hard-core hunters
that deer hunting can be the toughest
of all hunting when it comes to physical
conditioning. In deer hunting, you use
muscles that you don't normally. Walking
long distances to your favorite spot and
climbing into a stand is one thing, but field
dressing and dragging a deer out takes the
physical exertion to an entirely different
level.
JEFF KURRUS, NEBRASKALAND
