04/08/2026
Evergreen —
Something fun to share with the community. Backpacker Radio had me back on for a second episode this week — one of the biggest podcasts in the thru-hiking world — to talk about how to actually prepare your body for long-distance hiking.
We got into the stuff I wish every hiker heard before they started training — why cardio alone isn't enough, the specific strength work that prevents the most common trail injuries, why so many hikers break down in the first two weeks, and what to do about it.
Whether you're planning a thru-hike, tackling a 14er this summer, or just want your body to handle the Evergreen trails without paying for it the next day — there's a lot in here that applies.
Episode link: https://thetrek.co/how-to-train-for-a-thru-hike-strength-cardio-protocols-and-common-injury-prevention-with-dr-freeborn-mondello-bpr-351/
Grateful to The Trek and the Backpacker Radio team for having me on.
Dr. Freeborn Mondello, PT, DPT
RunFree PT — Recovery & Performance
