So how do you get in shape for hiking?

Obviously, you can hike – but I didn’t have that much time, so I used my personal training expertise to develop time efficient ways to get fit hiking, without actually being on a trail.  I created home and gym workouts to specifically target the hiking muscles groups and blended this into a 10 week e-course – with progressive steps and stages to prepare you for adventure.  Of course you need to spend some time hiking, and making time for this in a busy life can be challenging, necessary and motivating!  But you can get fit in other ways too, and there is essential hiking gear to purchase along the way.  My aim is to share what I consider to be essential hiking gear and what is a total waste of money.  I’ve also included some tips and tricks on suitable hiking food.  I wrote all my tips down and you can purchase that course – just click on the green button!  Over 10 weeks you will gradually increase your hiking fitness and overall strength and ultimately be able to hike for a full day (about 7 hours).

What if you need extra accountability to get hiking fit?

I set up my Friday Night Hikes in Hobart, Tasmania, where groups of like minded people can attend a weekly 75-minute hikes (expect hills).  I walk with you, and I have an eye for recognising your strengths and weaknesses.  If you were to ask me if I thought you were ready for a half day hike I’d be able to say – so your hiking fitness and confidence grows and incrementally you get fitter, stronger and more capable.  Interested?  Here is some more information on Friday Night Hikes.

Frequently I am asked what sort of person attends Friday Night Hikes.  The answer is they are generally women but men are welcome, aged 40-70 years old, and they have a range of fitness levels.  This is a beginners hiking fitness session, so if you are super fit and wanting to come bring a heavy back pack.  If you are new to hiking bring a pack with your coat, drink bottle and torch if you are hiking through the winter,  We start at 5.15pm and hike for 75 minutes (give or take a few minutes).  Did I mention there are hills . . . . bring your heart.

How will I know if I am fit enough for half or full day hike?

You will know your fitness is growing when your muscle soreness diminishes, and you are finding it easier to summit when we hike hills.  I offer half day hikes in Southern Tasmania and your Friday Night Hikes multi-pass does include a half day hike.  I will assess your hiking fitness and help you make the right decision, so your confidence builds.  Half day hikes can be purchased singularly.  If you are interested in half day hikes look at the page on this – click on the green tab.

Jo CC Holistic PT is licenced and insured to hike on kunanyi, Mount Wellington, Meehan Range, as well as Freychinet, Tasman and Mount Field National Parks.  To date we have explored Waterfall Bay to Clemes Peak and Tatnells Hill plus a circuit from Fortescue Bay via Mount Fortescue.  Additionally we have been to the Tarn Shelf on Mount Field and Mount Field East.  We have been to Collins Bonnet to the rear of kunanyi, Mount Wellington and also explored the trails from Lenah Valley to the Springs, including Breakneck Track which as the name suggests, is rather steep.

What if I don’t live in Hobart and can not see you in person – can you still help me with my training for hiking?

I can absolutely help you get fit for hiking by designing a hiking fitness plan that is tailored for you.  The best time to engage me is once you have decided which walk you will be doing.  This service is most used when someone is going on an extended hiking adventure.  I have worked with clients heading for high altitude and I’ve been to altitude many times and can help you prepare physically and mentally for that.  If you’d like to talk further, please email me here

Multi-day HIKING ADVENTURES

???? July 11-19 2025

Newsflash – my private hiking tour to Jatbula in the Top End goes on sale – NOW!! 9 spots only 

What’s included:
8 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 5 dinners
Professional wilderness guides (2 guides)
All National Park and camping fees
All group camping equipment including mozzie dome tent, stoves, cooking and eating utensils
Accommodation in Darwin before and after the trip
Emergency communications and group first aid kit
Transport from Darwin
Nitmiluk Gorge Cruise

Following the 2024 hiking adventure to the Best of Larapinta Trail Adele said:-

I have always been an active person however after numerous knee injuries and a fractured fibula late last year I felt that my hiking days were behind me. Then, I found Jo!
Jo formulated a personalised training plan to meet my specific rehabilitation needs and gave me excellent advice and guidance for training to regain my fitness and strength. I am a regular attendee at Jo’s “Mountain Movers” sessions, and I have just returned from undertaking an eight-day, 125 km hike on the amazing Larapinta Trail in Central Australia!  I have no hesitation in recommending Jo as your personal trainer if you want to achieve your fitness and health goals.

 Adele Wright – Best of Larapinta Trail 2024