what did you do to prepare for elk season today?

[The Doc]

the, are you ready topic, got me thinking about this one. what did you do to prepare for elk season today? that way we can check back daily and see what all of us have been doing to remind each other of things we need to do. its getting close

i drove deep into elk country {working} trying to spot elk from a distance {unsucessfully, i might add} good eye training though. seel a few muleys

[elkmtngear]

Ran 2 miles, 90 pushups, 90 crunches, 90 tricep extensions, shot 12 arrows into my 3D Elk Target from different positions/lanes.

[wideangle]

Worked out @ the gym pumping iron, rode my MTB and shoot my longbow.

[WapitiTalk1]

Nice thread Doc! I threw on my vintage (90's) Army Alice pack and did two miles on Joint Base Lewis-McChord after work. I also recorded a handfull of elk sounds in anticipation of starting the next "guess this elk sound" thread ... Wifey told me (as she has many,many times before) that I have issues and should have married an elk.. go figure RJ

[Fireball]

I fletch some arrows, worked on bow & shot some arrows.

[ElkNut1]

Working out today, playing with calling is good practice for me. I really like what Doc did in glassing so his eyes become accustomed to doing so, I can see how that would sharpen any of us up regardless if we lived in elk country or not! Great idea! I also will be carrying a 45# pack a couple of miles later today. I have to be in Pack Shape to help Doc get his bull out, Doc takes an elk everyear like clock work! (grin) I'll be awaiting his call! (grin)

ElkNut1

[JohnFitzgerald]

Lot's of cardio and practicing with my calls. Haven't been shooting much as I should. I'll need to get on that!

[iRem]

Every day I am driving I am always looking for the local deer, no elk in the area! I am bid on looking for the small things out in the field when looking for game. Daily I'm blowing a cow or bull call!

[six]

Registered on this site.

[realunlucky]

Worked out and day dreamed about the hunt

[Elktracker]

Got my cardio working all day and got my calls in the mail from today and did a little practicing with your cd sounds by the Elk. Very fast shipping took 2 days from the time I ordered to the time they were in my hand! Ordered two closer's yesterday and they are already in the mail headed my way! Thanks!

Josh

[Freebird134]

Hit the gym this morning, went to work so I can afford to hunt I also loaded my new pack up with all my gear for the first time today to see what's working and what isn't. It's going to be tight!!!

[ElkNut1]

Freebird, what pack are you now using?

ElkNut1

[dotman]

Missed my lunch time workout to pick up my new hand cannon and practiced my calling.

[PHELPS GAME CALLS]

20 minutes on Back and Bis then 20 minutes on the continuous stairs.

Training at 300 ft. sea elevation for an 8000 ft. hunt in the Bob Marshall, I have to Get After It.

[Wyo67]

First, read my email from the Elknut... Then the usual daily stuff: Practiced calling in the truck on the way to and from work / daily P90X workout / looked at my gear on my way out of the basement and really wished it was September.

[Haulin'Quarters]

2.3 mile run after work followed up by some upper body weights & resistance. Better be ready to haul some quarters this fall. Run tomorrow before work @ 4:am, rinse...repeat. Keep training everyone, it only makes ya better.

[The Doc]

yesterday ,
shot bow
prepare a trailer for sale, list on craigslist {probably will buy new spotting scope when it sells}

felt guilty for not bike riding {because of all of you on here}

[BowElkDwn]

Set up the camp trailer at a 3D bow shoot. Plan on spending Friday to Sunday there. Should be some really good practice. This will be my second one this year.

[sockeye]

I stained more sections of the fense so the wifey isn't dissapointed when I head out in Sept. and all the summer honey dues arn't done.

[ElkNut1]

Just when you think the Honey do's are done they add more! (grin)

ElkNut1

[BowElkDwn]

Plan on doing some 12 ounce curls at the bow shoot. I might even bump them up to 16 ounce if I really get inspired. Probably shoot my bow also.

[The Doc]

Plan on doing some 12 ounce curls at the bow shoot. I might even bump them up to 16 ounce if I really get inspired. Probably shoot my bow also.

exellent idea, one must prepare mentaly and physicaly for every situation!!!!

[WapitiTalk1]

Plan on doing some 12 ounce curls at the bow shoot. I might even bump them up to 16 ounce if I really get inspired. Probably shoot my bow also.

A word of caution.... Make sure you adequately stretch before making the transition between weights. Perhaps some bent arm chip dipping for 5 minutes between the weight transition from 12 to 16 ounces is a good idea so you don't pull anything

[The Doc]

Plan on doing some 12 ounce curls at the bow shoot. I might even bump them up to 16 ounce if I really get inspired. Probably shoot my bow also.

so for you experenced "curlers" does on stay with the same brand of weight? or is it best to change it up ever once and awhile?
the chip idea is good advice.

[ElkNut1]

Just beware, you don't want to fill up on chips! (grin)

By the way I did work out for 1hr 15min this morning! Those burpees really tire me out!

ElkNut1

[BowElkDwn]

I mainly stay on the same brand unless someone else is offering up free weights. I'm sure there will be some of that bent arm chip dipping also. And some shooting

[LckyTylr]

Ran 4 miles today at 24:13.

Scouting all weekend, leave at O:dark Thirty and I'll be carrying a pack loaded with sand and rocks for strength training.

[Freebird134]

Freebird, what pack are you now using?

ElkNut1

I'm going with the Badlands Ox pack and frame. It gets really mixed reviews, but I like it. And I got it for a steal! $280 shipped to my door I've had problems in the past getting load lifters to actually work comfortably for me, especially with heavy loads (eg, Eberlestock Blue Widow). With the Ox I've been packing 80lbs pretty comfy...as comfortably as 80lbs can be!


Today's prep included gym this morning, and messing around with homemade backpacking meals. I had some rehydrated venison and mashed potatoes for lunch today that weren't too bad. Plenty of time to tweak before September.

[The Doc]

shot bow, waxed string , mtn bike ride

[easeup]

I went fishing.


dont laugh....you got to get your head on square.

[WapitiTalk1]

Absolutely nothing Started on the deck refinishing project last night and just quit for today (8:26 here in WA).. Ugg.. Have found that some of the steps and rail posts are water rotted so I'm rebuilding those.. Will be done mid mid afternoon tomorrow so at least maybe I can shoot some arrows. Back on the hiking Monday after work!

[Buglemaster]

Tinkered with the bow.Shot a few arrows.Razzed the wife with my calls. Then, when I fell asleep watching the open, had a terrific dream about a great bull coming in on the dead run. The best part of the day!

[sockeye]

Went fishing sunday, also took the opportunity to run up the 200' hills surrounding the lake. Only had to stop one timeon average, got to the top and jogged back down side hilling. I thought it was a good indicator of the shape I am in. Putting on a weighted pack next time will be the real test.

[elkmtngear]

Today:
Pushups- 150
Triceps- 150
Crunches-250
Burpees-20
Ran- 1.5 miles....shooting tonite

[BowElkDwn]

Got done with the shooting and 12 ounce curls. I did try a couple 16 ouncers and still all good. My son did a little better than me on the shooting (6 year old) had second place. I held my own and had a lot of good practice and fun. Not bad for a little cardio going up and down the hills also.

[LckyTylr]

4.568 miles in rolling foothills terrain in 39 minutes 17 seconds for an average of 8:56 minutes per mile. Not as fast as I want to be, but getting faster with each run. I wore out my 6 year old Boxer and my 5 year old mutt. HAHA. With 1/2 mile remaining, I realized that I could no longer hear the panting behind me. I turned around and saw my boxer walking the trail and my mutt flat out laying in the middle of it. HAHA, lazy dogs!!

Ideally, I want to average less than 9:00 minutes per mile for each of my 3 legs of the Ponderosa Pine Relay in a month.

http://www.ponderosapinerelay.com/

[ElkNut1]

Lcky Tylr, do you live in the Boise area or closer to McCall?

ElkNut1

[LckyTylr]

I live in South Boise, Lake Hazel and Maple Grove. How about you?

[ElkNut1]

I live in McCall.

ElkNut1

[LckyTylr]

Well that's a good place to live.

I couldn't figure out where No-Tell-em Creek was when I first got here so I hunted West Mtn . . . . . . . . . . . with EVERYONE ELSE from Boise.


Surprisingly, I had a few good encounters hunting there and I was able to find a big bowl that nobody else made it into.

Back to the topic, I'm going shooting right MEOW!

[HurricaneHuge]

45 arrows at 40 yards at the 3D elk target at the range. Indoor air conditioned. Not necessarily realistic conditions, but I'll take 40 yards in 70 degrees over 95 degrees any day of the week.

[WapitiTalk1]

Hiked a couple of hard miles with my 35 lb ruck after work. There are some great trails on Joint Base Lewis-Mcchord where I work with a lot of inclines/declines.. Starting to feel pretty good. Shot a good 50-60 arrows in the backyard.

[ctdad]

I'm in the middle of my fourth week of P90X and today is day 30 of the 100 day burpee challenge (1 burpee on day 1, 2 on day 2, etc). If this 30 mph wind lays down tonight, I hope to shoot too.

[LckyTylr]

Ran in the foothills 3.988 miles in 33:37 for an 8:37 pace. Shouldn't have eaten that slice of chocolate chip pumpkin bread before . . . . . . ouch. It was hot, only 80, but I'm a big baby in the heat.

[gunnar]

Last night 4 miles of stairs and hills. Tonight ordered new elk mouth reeds.....the elk bug has taken hold

[WapitiTalk1]

Finished clearing a 70 yard shooting range in the woods on my property. Not really a range, more like a hole in the trees and brush It'll work....

[HurricaneHuge]

Spent a lot of time reading here (the lack of a girlfriend really helps me get away with that), shot 30 arrows, round of TRX. Need to step the cardio this week, but the Lord did not bless me with a body designed for cardio, so I'm not exactly excited about it.

[LckyTylr]

Who needs cardio if you have the legs of a bull? I think if you can condition yourself to suit your natural abilities and work hard on improving the areas that you are weak in, you will be good to go. I find every year that it's not my lungs that betray me, I think pacing yourself will let you maintain a specific respiration level that you can sustain for hours, but my legs try to quit on me by lunch almost every day, maybe I should stop and smell the roses more often and give 'em a break. With all of that said, I'm going to start toning down on the running routine and work more on hiking with weight and mountain biking as the season nears. After my race, I'll probably only run once a week, but hike and bike 2-3 times each week until the season.

Here's a concern that some of you may weigh in on. Has anyone ever conditioned themselves at or near the elevation that they intend to hunt . . . . . . . . and then traveled to a significantly lower elevation for a week or so before the season starts? If so, did you notice a loss in conditioning upon returning to elk hunting elevation?

I'm headed to Upstate NY in late July to visit my family for a week. That will be immediately after my relay race, so I should be in superb shape, but I don't want to lose any of my conditioning. I'm planning on running/hiking when I'm there, but my parents house is at 600 feet, I live/exercise at 3,000 feet and hunt above 6,000 feet. The first week of hunting is always an adjustment no matter how good of shape I'm in. I guess none of this really matters, as I'll have the entire month of August to regain any conditioning that I might lose.

Useless rambling over. Sorry.

[HurricaneHuge]

That may be true, but I like/hate training for my weaknesses. It always sucks when you aren't good at something naturally because it takes that much more work to accomplish. Obviously, when you achieve it, it means more but the process can still suck. I'm not a runner, never will be. Tyler, looks like you love it, and more power to you. Me, I'm a guy built like a tank, a slow, gas guzzling, can knock down anything in his way as long as it doesn't move, tank. Natural strength I have, everything else? Eh, takes effort. I have always been weak in core strength, which is why I love TRX, all core based movements, but combined with workouts that I'm good at. I'll take my Cardio in short, heavy interval training. Plus the village board asked that I not run anymore, it's just not a pretty sight and they hate having to re-hang picture frames.

[ElkManDan]

I joined an archery club/range not a quarter mile from work. I've got my mornings and or lunch planned til hunting season. I also ordered up a new Sight I can't wait to try out. Getting the Montana Black Gold Ascent 5 pin sight, can't wait to get it mounted and do some long range shooting with it.

[DaleVR]

Just started PT from breaking my leg 3 months ago, 3 months has been a lot of time on crutches!
swimming before work
2 mile on the bike in the evening
and lots of stretches.
Thats this week, besides shooting the bow.

[T/H]

Ran 2 miles, 90 pushups, 90 crunches, 90 tricep extensions, shot 12 arrows into my 3D Elk Target from different positions/lanes.

thanks alot Jeff. i haven't worked out in nearly 2 weeks and now i'm feelin guilty lol. guess i better hit it hard as i have a Gila hunt coming soon.

[ctdad]

Here's a concern that some of you may weigh in on. Has anyone ever conditioned themselves at or near the elevation that they intend to hunt . . . . . . . . and then traveled to a significantly lower elevation for a week or so before the season starts? If so, did you notice a loss in conditioning upon returning to elk hunting elevation?

I'm headed to Upstate NY in late July to visit my family for a week. .

I've read that it takes three weeks for your body to produce more red blood cells to adjust to the lower oxygen at elevation so even if you lost a few, you'll have plenty of time to get them back in August.

[LckyTylr]

Thanks ctdad. I hope that's not 3 weeks of he!!, but I can't imagine that I'll lose too much conditioning in just a week.

HurricaneHuge . . . . . . . aHAHAHHAahahah, that's hilarious, rehang picture frames.

Actually, I don't like to run, I can see how you'd think that, but I can't stand it. I get bored to tears after about 5 minutes and would rather be doing anything else. The ONLY reason that I'm doing the relay race is to have a date that I MUST be in shape by. The last few years, I have waited and waited and then waited too long to start conditioning for Elk hunting, always telling myself "I'm young, I'll be okay". Well last year I either turned old or hunted harder than my young legs were prepared for. The race I chose was specifically a team event with coworkers, this wouldn't allow me to back out or slack off, the team is counting on me to maintain a decent pace. Every other day when I run, I hate my decision until the half way point when I start to tell myself "this is what it takes to kill and elk". Is that true, probably not, but I'm not taking any chances this year. Running stinks, I only know one person that truly likes it, but he's an Ironman. On the flip side, sucking wind when you are trying to chase a bugle also sucks, I think missing just one shot at a bull far outweighs how much running and exercising stinks all summer.

[fap1800]

Just incorporated a new leg exercise routine that's sure to make my legs stronger or at the very least increase my threshold for pain.

The goal is not to puke.

1min on the exercise bike. Max resistance level keeping the RPMs above 50. Immediately jump into leg extensions. Find a moderate weight that has you failing at about 20 reps. Do this circuit 3x...no rest.

Then...

Leg presses. Again moderate weight with a fail target of approximately 20 reps. Followed up with a 1min wall sit. Just concentrate on breathing and fight the pain. Do this circuit 3x. Again no rest.

And to finish up...

Calf raises. Moderate weight with a fail target of 20. Jump right into hamstring curls. Same thing...20 reps. Complete 3x with no rest.

This really gets the blood flowing and the muscles burning. And maybe some tears flowing.

[Charkbait]

Been rehabbing a Patellar Tendon repair the last 2 months but have worked up to 100 bike miles a week and about 5 hours of weights...that's about 12 hours a week. I'm getting there, leg strength training will have to hold off for another month, right now that's the weak spot.

Goal from here out is:
10+hrs a week of prep (cardio, weights, shooting)
100 miles on the bike
100 arrows

if I can do that (and I will) I'll at least scare one real good!

side benefit to all this is I can knock down about 4500 calories a day of good stuff and still lose fat.

[ElkNut1]

Geez, you guys are kicking butt!!! You guys training for a triathlon or an elk hunt? (grin)

ElkNut1

[Charkbait]

Geez, you guys are kicking butt!!! You guys training for a triathlon or an elk hunt? (grin)

ElkNut1

overkill for sure but at sea level you kind of have to try and compensate. I mean if i was training for a boxing/wrestling/mma match and my opponent was much bigger and stronger than me AND trained each and every day at 8000+ ft I'd be doing the same.

Looking to be 6-8 miles deep on foot and have to pack out 3 bulls with my buddies, training for the packouts more than then hunt. Not only survive the packout but be able to funtion and hunt the next day requires a special level of strength and conditioning.

Gives us aging guys a reason to get into top condition!

[ElkNut1]

Dude, I hear ya! I respect your attitude & enthusiasm. There's no such thing as being in to good a shape! (grin) I can't wait to hear about a few stories & photos, good luck man!!

ElkNut1

[HurricaneHuge]

Another round of TRX, and some new huntin' clothes ordered.

[HurricaneHuge]

Typed that mid-workout by the way. I should really start earlier than 10:30 at night.

[PHELPS GAME CALLS]

Leg Day at the Gym. Squats (3x8x365lbs), calf raises, lunges and hamstring curls. Then 20 minutes on the stair climber to finish off the legs.

[Charkbait]

Fasted 5:15am ride of 16 miles maxed out the heart rate on a couple climbs

Shot 20 arrows last night out to 60yds

Need a sight extension to ring out the new spot hogg in my peep, doing that today.

Lunch at the gym today for weights.

Reward myself tonight with a couple cold ones.

25 miles tomorrow on the bike and fling some arrows.

Hunting crew coming to my place Sunday morning for bareshaft tuning of the bows and then we'll likely shoot some distance shots at 80+yds No workout on Sunday but several hours put in to get better.

I've got 3 weeks (non consecutive) away from home and the gym between now and the season so I have to make hay while I can and use those times for rest and recovery.

[fap1800]

Geez, you guys are kicking butt!!! You guys training for a triathlon or an elk hunt? (grin)

ElkNut1

Like Charkbait I'm a flatlander...only 200ft. So I need to do whatever I can to get my legs ready to take take a 10 day beating.

[Swatson]

Lifted this morning, thought about the monster bull I missed last year at "12ft" while at work all day(as I do most days) and will run tonight when I get home! Will get home and eat dinner and then lay down in bed and think about that bull some more before falling asleep. Will rinse and repeat tomorrow!

[ElkNut1]

Swatson, whoa, whoa, whoa, what's the story on missing a bull at 12yards???? (grin)

ELkNut1

[Swatson]

hahaha I figured someone was going to want an explanation on that! I really don't want to talk about it! I drew a Quality Bull tag here in Wa last year for a pretty sweet unit. I located this particular bull on the 4th morning of my hunt from a long ways off. Almost killed myself getting to this bull as I had to drop down through some of the nastiest ravines, cliffs, etc. One of those hunts you tell yourself if I hurt myself in here nobody's ever gonna find me! Once I located this bull it took me about an hour or more to get to him and the entire time he was going off! Wasn't hard to locate after that and this thing sounded like the biggest baddest bull on earth. Once I got down to his little world and probably 200 yards from him I let out a couple cow calls and then a bugle and here he came! I was set up behind a big tree as he was coming down the hill right at me FAST. Unfortunately he came directly at me and stopped right in front of the tree to where all I could see was horns on one side of the tree and horns on the other side of the tree! He stood there for about a minute and then gave me one of his best screams, for those that haven't been within feet from a herd bull screaming full bore, it's something you'll never forget. He then made a few steps to his right and stopped, slightly quartering away from me but still protected by that stupid tree. I then made the decision that I was gonna lean to my left and try to hug an arrow up against the tree. The shot was perfect, right up until the point my arrow skipped off a 1 inch nub(broken branch) sticking out of the tree, sending my arrow over the bulls back at 12 feet! I dropped to my knees, hung my head for a few minutes and then made a very long depressing 6 mile hike back to camp. The bull was about a 320 bull and for me here in Wa thats a dandy! Lesson learned, move up from your last calling point. I knew this but was so caught up in the craziness when I heard him running that I just ripped my pack off and set up and stayed at my last calling point. Had I moved ahead just 20 yards it'd a been a done deal.

[ElkNut1]

Great stuff man!!! Loved the story, very cool! Yes, it crunch time our mind is going crazy & the adrenaline is rushing through the veins especially on a great bull as yours! (grin) You are right as a lone hunter, it's best to call & move whenever possible as long as you don't have the chance of being busted! Loved the story dude!!! Much appreciated!

ElkNut1

[Brad Peterson]

Went to the range and shot some at 60 and 70 then loaded up the pack to do some hiking/scouting this evening. Well guess I should have checked the weather because about the time I started in the storm clouds rolled in. Knowing better I pushed on up the mountain. Got myself soaked and didnt see anything, guess thats the way it goes, good workout though.

[ElkNut1]

Worked out for 1-1/2 hour today & cut wood with my son & grandson for an hour or so! It was a good day!!

ElkNut1

[LckyTylr]

Swatson, that is heartbraking man. It sounds like you earned yourself a bull, and it just didn't pan out.

I must say though, Thank You!

That's a learning opportunity for someone like me that hasn't been in that situation yet. I have read and have seen on hunting clips that once you have a bull headed "in", it's best to move a short distance, maybe quartering down wind and closer to the bull. I always just kind of skimmed over that, thinking that it's a "good idea", and that "I'll do that if I think to". Now I'm thinking that I need to ingrain that into my mind. Call, get a bull interested, MOVE . . . . . . MOVE Dummy!

That's a tough lesson to learn from experience, so thank you for putting it out there for the rest of us.

Back on topic: I did 100 lunges today, so 100 each leg. OUCH. Shaky legs by the time I did my last set of 25. WOW!

[ElkNut1]

Lky, do you use any weights when doing the lunges, 100 is a ton! Congrats man!

ElkNut1

[LckyTylr]

No, I haven't used any weights up to this point. I almost fell down the stairs after I did 100, and I won't be doing any for another week or so. My legs are SOOOO tight today. Previously, 75 was the most I had done, but yesterday I was feeling spunky, now I'm paying for it. I think I might try some with weight here in another week, I just want to be really careful because they are a quick way to hurt knees and lower back if doing them with weight. It's amazing that just the weight of your own body is so effective in so many strength training exercises.

[ElkNut1]

Thanks for the response, I agree, a guys body weight can be used very effective for many different workout functions! Thanks1

ElkNut1

[LckyTylr]

:Ashamed Face:

I didn't do ANYTHING to prepare for Elk season today. I was going to run, but then yard work, family time and random stuff got in the way. Tomorrow is going to be Punishing Time!

[Swatson]

Tylr, yes its amazing how good elk are at pin pointing where a call comes from, they are usually spot on! Welcome to a very addicting sport! I rifle hunted my entire life up until 8 years ago when my wife became pregnant with our first and was due in late October. I wasn't about to miss an elk season so I went out and bought a bow and took a couple weeks off in Sept instead. Called in and shot a nice 5x5 that year and that did it for me!!!!! Ran 3 miles and 30 minutes on the core! 71 days fellas!!!!!!

[ctdad]

Shot bow at 6:30am

34 burpees and p90x, finished by 9:30am

Sewed the leaky window closed on my canvas tent, then went to store and bought seam seal and sealed it.

Hiked 1 mile with 50 lb salt block in my pack. Set it out and checked trail camera (whitetail country) and hiked home with no load.

I feel really good right now so I'm going to jump on the elliptical for 30 minutes. The heat index is over 100F here today so I'm done outside for a while.

This evening I will hose down my tent and check for leaks.

Been practicing elk calls on and off all day also.

Wife and kids are out of town today and I'm taking advantage of an elk day!

[PHELPS GAME CALLS]

Put together 70 elk calls today. Not really preparing for the hunts just helping pay for them

[dotman]

Put together 70 elk calls today. Not really preparing for the hunts just helping pay for them

Haha, that is preparing in one way looking fwd to using your call this year.

[LckyTylr]

So much for a "punishing day". I don't know if I mentally let my body down or if my body just let me down.

Only did 4.592 miles in 40:29 for 8:49/mile. Not very good considering that I was supposed to run 6 miles but both calves cramped up around 4.5 miles. Grrrrr.

[ctdad]

Put together 70 elk calls today. Not really preparing for the hunts just helping pay for them

Since I just ordered two of them, I'm hoping some of those were mine. Can't wait to get them and start practicing with them.

[Brad Peterson]

Well yesterday went to a 3D shoot in the am and shot great was feeling good about my shooting. Got in the smoker round and just failed on the last target, had it won by a mile but broke my arrow on the last target. Then got home changed clothes loaded the pack and went and hiked up to a vantage point I scout from been watching a big mulie buck last couple days. Hope he hangs around. 60 Days!!!!

[RockChucker30]

Today I did some HIIT by running upstream in waist deep water, shot my bow at odd yardages from odd positions while wearing a 40 lb pack, and walked 1.25 mile with the pack on.

[Lefty]

Shot my bow a few times this morning and evening. Spent 7 hours in the mountians,.. just looking,.. I may have found a new place to hunt

[Charkbait]

16 miles on tke bike this morning

1 hr on weights at lunch

will sleep like a baby tonight...

the obsession is setting in, it has been bad since my first hunt but is percolating these days.

[Elkmedic]

I have decided to hunt the east side of Washington this year, unfortunately away from my normal group so I have started with basic scouting and went to get new topomaps of the areas I plan to hunt. Along with working out ( lost 32lbs), I drive across the state every other week to see my kids and that give me ample time to call while driving. It's funny to watch people in traffic look around to see where the noise is coming from.

[elkmtngear]

Finally feel like I'm making gains this week! Weight is down a few pounds, more energy, less belly fat, etc.

Yesterday: 25 Burpees, 120 pushups, 120 triceps extensions, 200 crunches, 2 mile run, shot 12 arrows.

I'm on track today for about the same. Can't seem to get September out of my head.

[ElkNut1]

Good stuff, you guys are inspiring me!!

ElkNut1

[ColoradoDan]

Great inspirational thread. Hit the legs really hard yesterday in the weight room. My plan is to tackle the stairclimber today after work for an intense cardio session and lift upper body. But, I just can't shake this cold that I have had for the last week. We'll see if I decide to power through or go home and rest up.

[PHELPS GAME CALLS]

Switched over from a mass gaining program to a cutting program. I think I decided that I like eating and lifting better than not eating and cardio.

Back and Bis today with 20 minutes on the bike.

[RockChucker30]

Practiced calling this morning and recorded to soundcloud so i can track progress. Burpees, situps, pistols, lunges, and a tabata of curls, squats, shoulder presses, and heavy pants tonight.

[ElkNut1]

Rockchucker30, what is a pistol?

ElkNut1

[PHELPS GAME CALLS]

Pistols are a one legged squat

[RockChucker30]

Pistol- Hands and one leg held out front. Supposed to go all the way down and back up. I'm working on that part .

[ElkNut1]

Ah, I think I'll pass on those! (grin)

ElkNut1

[LckyTylr]

6.263 miles in the Boise Foothills with 763 ft elevation gain in 58:45 for a 9:39 pace. I think it could have been slightly better if I hadn't encountered and been held up by so many mtn bikers. Oh well. I'll get better, maybe next time I'll leave the dogs home, they gave up on me twice and needed some encouragement.

[Harmy]

Bought some new boots a few months back but have not had time to break them in. Sooo, went for a three hour hike up Porter Fork above Salt Lake. Couple thousand vertical or so up to about 9500 feet. Boots worked great till I turned back down and I realized I did not follow one of the important tips in another thread here. Forgot to clip the nails... About a 3rd of the way down I hear a crash like a huge elk jumping up and then nothing. I stop. 20 feet away a Black Bear comes out of the woods quartering towards me. I am frozen and he does not seem to see me nor does he seem to be aware of me. Another crash in the woods behind the bear and he looks back and turns away from me. Momma Bear about 40 yards away comming straight at me! I duck below the greenery and bolt down the trail as quickly and quietly as possible. Now I have 4 huge blisters on the bottoms of my feet thanks to my headlong descent down the trail... Guess I should stick with P90x. Not sure which hurts worse, running down hill when you are scared and have not run for a decade or doing Dreya Rolls with a beer butt???

[LckyTylr]

Harmy, that sounds like fun. Growing up, we had a lot of bears around my house and my dog HATED them. She was always getting herself into odd situations in the middle of the night. Looking back on it, I should have just left her alone to her own fate, but I always seemed to end up out in the woods wearing shorts and sandals with nothing but a flashlight, running around trying to catch my dumba$$ dog that had treed mama and cubs. Every Spring, without fail, I'd get into that scenario at least twice. All summer long, she'd play cat and mouse with a big boar that frequented our trash cans. My dog would chase him to the top of the yard, he'd realize that he's a big strong bear, turn on her and chase her all the way back to the carport. I used to laugh and giggle about it until he chased her all the way to the front door of the house one time, running right past me. Whew, had to check my shorts. Ah, da Bears, what would we do without bear stories?

I shot this morning, I shoot better in the morning than I do at any other time of the day. does anyone else feel the same? Maybe it's because I'm calm and relaxed and haven't had any caffiene. MuHAha haha ha haaaaaa.

[LckyTylr]

I believe this will be of interest to some people frequenting this thread. I didn't go to their shoot :kicking self:, but I wish I had. If they do another one this summer or next year, I'm going for sure.

http://traintohunt.com/workouts/

[bowgy]

I did what I do most days, hiked 4.25 miles 658 feet elevation gain and shot my recurve for about an hour.

[Charkbait]

tried to go for a bike ride this morning but turns out my wife "bumped" the bike pulling in the garage...need a new rear wheel and tire. Got a bit miffed but then dialed in my 70-80-90 yd pins...still got better and more prepared today. Will lift some heavy stuff at lunch and ride the stationary bike (death by boredom)

[LckyTylr]

6.5 miles in 60:53 for 9:19 mile pace with 993 feet of elevation gain, plus all of the elevation gain/loss that resulted from a wrong turn sending me through the neighborhoods North of Warm Springs Road (Doh!) Not a good pace, but there was an awful lot of uphill running today.

[ctdad]

40 burpees, 2 mile run, P90X legs and back workout (skipped the ab workout today b/c I had to get to work this am). Shot for 10 minutes. Got mad at myself for shooting two broadheads at the same spot and ruining two arrows and called it a day.

[ElkNut1]

Just got back from cutting a load of wood, that's always a good sweaty job!! Only 6 cords to go!!(grin)

ElkNut1

[cnelk]

I put together 2 strap-on tree stands I just bought.
I'm going to use over some waterholes in GMU 61

Strapped one to a power pole in my yard to give it a try!
Not fun in 96 degrees tho

[WapitiTalk1]

Not much except rebuild a set old rotten steps, handrails, spindles, etc. on my back deck. Gonna drive to a gated road a few miles away in the morning and do a few miles on the MT bike Elknut made me homesick when he said he went out and got a load of firewood Used to like getting the winter firewood in.

[diggerson]

Saturday ran 8 miles in the a.m., prepped some new arrows in the p.m. Sunday ran 30 min at 5k race pace in the a.m., watched Elknut's Scouting Elk Country DVD in the early p.m. Got restless late that afternoon and took the boys to the archery range in the 100 degree heat. The boys and I had fun, heat aside. 5 mile run last night, and some Google Earth scouting. Will probably do a short run and some core work this evening, and shoot a few arrows in the back yard. Been shooting more lately, but need to get back in the habit of shooting a few arrows daily.

[Swatson]

Ran 4 miles this morning, put 25 arrows in the bag, and woke the neighborhood up with a few screams out of the bugle

[RockChucker30]

Yesterday was burpees, pistols, lunges, situps, and a short hike. This morning a 3.5 mile trail run. Will shoot the bow and likely do another workout this afternoon.

[LckyTylr]

6.164 Miles up Corrals trail in Boise with 761 ft Elevation gain in 54:36 for an 8:52/Mile pace. I'm pretty happy with that. Got to trailhead at 06:20, had the trail all to myself for the first half of the run. It was ALMOST . . . . . . . . fun.

[bowpackerrob]

4 mile run in 33 minutes. 3 x 10 squats, 20 pullups, 100 pushups in sets, 50 core leg lifts. 10 arrows in the bag from 20, 30 and 40 yards each.

[ctdad]

Ran, rode the bike, shot my bow at 50, 60, 70, 80 yards. Played with the calls and repaired a few arrows. I try to humor myself with checking trail cameras looking for whitetails but they are just a mild distraction from the real goal.

[Freebird134]

Been talking about it for a while, and finally did it. It was 102 degrees today, so hiking outside was not an option. I took the pack to the gym, put two 25lb plates on it, and jumped on the stair stepper. Did about 1.5 miles/75 stories in 30 minutes before I had to head home for 4th of July festivities. It isn't a real mountain, but a good surrogate for those of us stuck in flatlands.

[WapitiTalk1]

Packed my Blue Widow for my two day trip in the elk woods Not sure if I can get far enough up my target trail tomorrow due to the snow, but will go as far as I can and set up camp and shake out my gear. RJ

[CrazyElkHunter]

Reshaped, cut and tuned a dozen reeds. I have a high pallet and have to bend all my reeds. Out of a dozen I might get 7 or 8 to get the sounds I want. Fortunately being a pro staff with Mossy Oak I get calls from a partner company at a good price. Did a few miles on the stationary bike, treadmill and did a few crunches. Started vacuum sealing some of the meat (elk burger) for the trip to Colorado in August.

[cnelk]

Its 8am...
I already ran 3 miles, fletched some arrows, and downloaded 25 waypoints into my GPS for my scouting trip into GMU 61 next weekend


Going to shoot my bow soon before it gets too hot

[Lefty]

Shoot a few arrows.
Work on the Honey-do list (gives me huntign time)
Ill either do a hike near town or maybe pull an overnighter where I elk hunt

[elkaholic]

Worked out last night- and did a 3 mile run this a.m. looked over Google Earth some more planning scouting trips.

[dreamingbig]

I ran 6 miles last night, shot 30 arrows, fletched and numbered my new killing arrows, and sorted through some gear. July & Aug are going to go fast!

[Freebird134]

Am I the only one that checks this forum as soon as he wakes up? Sometimes on my phone, still in bed? Do I have a problem?

[foxvalley]

Freebird, I think you just have a problem in general.......... just teasin...... Yep, I check mine right away too. This elk thing is pretty serious stuff.

[Freebird134]

I do have a problem in general: I moved to Wisconsin. There are no elk anywhere near me. No mountains, so I have to train my legs on a stairstepper.....though the scenery around the stair stepper can be quite nice at times.

[RockChucker30]

This morning I did 30 burpees, 40 situps, 20 single leg squats, and ran a mile. On the way to work I practiced bugling, recorded it, and uploaded to soundcloud so I can track my progress.

[ctdad]

Took a day off from physical conditioning b/c my body needs to recover.

Swapped out a heavier stabilizer for a small, lighter one. Practiced bugles and cow calls.

[diggerson]

10 mile run this morning in 90 minutes, my best time/pace ever for a run of this distance. Not blazing fast by serious runners standards, but pretty durn good for me!

Going scouting later for a new pronghorn hunting spot (I know, nothing to do with elk...), but will take the bow out for some practice, and let the boys plink with the .22s. Maybe we can find some prarie dogs.

[Freebird134]

Too many Jim Beam and cokes last night. May not be much elk season prep for me today

[ctdad]

14 mile bike ride. 1 mile hike through standing corn and hand raked dead weeds and worked the dirt to plant some alfalfa under a deer stand. Wore me out.

[LckyTylr]

Did a hike this morning with the dogs. Loaded up my pack with 51 lbs and gained 2980' of Elevation and back to the truck before 10 AM. Gotta start getting those Elk legs ready.

[Freebird134]

2 miles and 1000' elevation on the stair stepper with two 25lb plates in my Ox frame. I'm really liking the Ox!!!! I have to thank Mrs. Freebird for taking some training pics

Image.jpg (257.67 KiB) Viewed 57517 times

Image 2.jpg (329.91 KiB) Viewed 57517 times

[LckyTylr]

It's what I DIDN'T do today.

I chickened out, the heat was awful, I just couldn't force myself to do anything outside after spending the entire day at the site in the sun.

Anybody else share my lack of drive today?

What really stinks is that there is no relief in sight, it's supposed to be 100+ for the next several days here. Ahhhhhhhhh!

[elkohalic]

mastered the " Mello Yello " mouth reed. Man I got that thing sounding great

[2OArchery]

I can't blame you Tyler, 108* today. I took a short scouting trip this afternoon, just driving. Too hot for any animals to be out, including me.

[PHELPS GAME CALLS]

Back/Bis + 20 minutes on the continuous stairs that freebird is on (2.4 miles in 20 minutes with no weight, kicked my rear)

[LckyTylr]

Well, hot or not, today I'm going running. It's going to be awful I would imagine, but I can't allow my conditioning to slip just because we have one hot week. Grrrr.

[HurricaneHuge]

Took too much time off last week on the working out. Can't let that happen anymore. Rocked a workout last night on the TRX, will have another tonight, and pretty soon here I'm gonna be implementing 2 a days. Time to pick up the pace.

[RockChucker30]

So far today I've listened to elknuts Volume 4 on the drive to work, practiced bugling on the drive to work, and wasted time reading this forum and a couple others instead of working. I'll get in some kind of workout tonight, and am determined to make myself get up extra early tomorrow for a 5 mile trail run.

[ElkNut1]

I have a softball game tonight & that really gets the heart rate up & a bit of sweat running!! Practiced some calling too!

ElkNut1

[HurricaneHuge]

Softball game?! I think the beer usually off sets the heart rate increase!

[Freebird134]

Practiced some calling and hit the gym (squats, bench, and rows, plus some cardio).

[LckyTylr]

Did exactly 3 Miles tonight on pavement. First time I have ran on pavement in more than a month, wow what a breeze . . . . . and such a short distance. I decided that given the easy terrain and the short distance, that I had better push the pace a little more. Ended up doing it in 22:36 for a 7:32 min/mile pace. It was hot, 95 +.

[PHELPS GAME CALLS]

Chest/Tris/Shoulders with softball double header

[ctdad]

plyometrics workout before work. Going to shoot tonight after kids are in bed.

[Freebird134]

plyometrics workout before work. Going to shoot tonight after kids are in bed.

Plyometrics? Sounds fancy!

I hit the gym early and did some elliptical cardio before heading off to work. Got some practice time with my calls during my commute though!

[RockChucker30]

Plyometrics is tuesday morning in the P90X plan. It's a killer lower body workout.

[HurricaneHuge]

It's a killer cardio workout too. Interval training is king for cardio gains.

[WapitiTalk1]

Did about 3 miles at a fast clip with a bit over 40 pounds in my old Army alice pack. Feeling it tonight. Tomorrow, it's MT biking. Will probably do around 5 miles, staying on some old gravel roads on Ft. Lewis with lotsa ups and down.. Starting to feel pretty good. RJ

[ElkNut1]

Hurricane, a beer or two is after the game!! (grin) I'm an old fart playing with all these young 30's guys, they work me out!!! (grin)

ElkNut1

[ctdad]

Swam 25 minutes straight this morning. Whew.

[caperoll/Scott]

every day on my bike riding a couple miles, every other day I do a over all body work out, I start with 20 lbs bumb bells do a set of 15 squats, then 15 squats and curels, then 15 squats, curles, and over head press. That will get your hart rate up. It works your legs, core, shoulders and back. Three sets every other day.

[ctdad]

It's a killer cardio workout too. Interval training is king for cardio gains.

What do you do for interval training?

[Freebird134]

Loaded the ox frame with 85lbs and climbed the stair stepper for 30 minutes. My legs are tired!

[ctdad]

Loaded the ox frame with 85lbs and climbed the stair stepper for 30 minutes. My legs are tired!

I would bet your legs are tired. That's a lot of weight. Good work

[HurricaneHuge]

Hurricane, a beer or two is after the game!! (grin) I'm an old fart playing with all these young 30's guys, they work me out!!! (grin)

ElkNut1

Haha! I'm just messin' with ya Paul. Most of the leagues around here are beer before/during/after. The softball is secondary for a lot of those guys.

[HurricaneHuge]

It's a killer cardio workout too. Interval training is king for cardio gains.

What do you do for interval training?

Currently? A whole lot of nothing! But when I'm focusing on cardio I much prefer Interval based programs. The gains are greater than just steady running/biking, takes less time, and wears down the body a lot less.

[dreamingbig]

I dialed the site in out to 60 yards at the range and did power cleans/bench/dead lift/single arm rows at the gym. Shooting a 3D shoot on Saturday. 55 days from today until I leave!

[ctdad]

Currently? A whole lot of nothing! But when I'm focusing on cardio I much prefer Interval based programs. The gains are greater than just steady running/biking, takes less time, and wears down the body a lot less.[/quote]

Give me an example. Are you talking about crossfit type workouts? I'm always looking for new workouts. I get bored quick so I need to mix it up constantly

[RockChucker30]

ctdad,

Take a look at Tabata intervals. You can use almost any exercise that will get your heart rate up. I like hill sprints, burpees, situps, etc. You can also use weights though.

The sequence is to go HARD (170% of Vo2 Max) for 20 seconds, then stop for 10 seconds, then 20 seconds on followed by a 10 second break. You repeat this for 8 reps and a total of 4 minutes. I will usually do the sequence 3-4 times taking 2-3 minute breaks in between. Total interval workout shouldn't be more than about 20 minutes.

The research says that interval training like this gives better cardio gains than steady state training for much longer times. You can interval train 3-4 times a week with maybe one day per week of steady state training.

I got a timer app for my Iphone that makes it really easy to hit the time breaks.

[HurricaneHuge]

RockChucker hit it on the head. It doesn't really matter what you do, but it's how you're doing it. If you were on a stationary bike or regular bike, you hit it as hard as you can for a set time, rest, do it again, rest, etc. The changes from rest to full blown effort improves your body's recovery rates and lets you go harder, longer as gains are seen. If I have to run, I'd rather blast out sprints and be done in 20 minutes than go out for multiple miles at the same never-ending pace for however long you run. I cant stand long-distance running.

[LckyTylr]

Ran my 6.2 mile trail. Stupid phone wouldn't log my time, so I don't know what pace I was doing, but I was pushing it and felt like I was moving pretty good. I lost the dogs with about a 1/2 mile to go. I turned around and didn't see them, figured they ran down to the stream real quick so I kept running. A few hundred yards later I still couldn't see them so I stopped. Waited a minute and then ran back up the trail. They were both laying in the shade of a sage bush. Quitters!!!

[CrazyElkHunter]

Sharpened all my knives, did a inventory of my archery hunting gear box, made 5 more game bags and made some alterations to my back pack. Started my grocery list.

[ctdad]

biked ten miles then ran 3. Doing my first sprint triathlon in two weeks. Just another aspect of my elk hunting training.

One of my whitetail hunting buddies is coming out today to shoot. Haven't shot with anybody in months so that's always fun.

[Ridgernr]

Just got back from vacation in Colorado. Now it is time to get back at it. I dug 6 - 14 " by 3 ' shop post holes started out with a post hole digger then went to manual arms for the cleanup , I should now be able to draw a 200 lb bow My arms feel like popeyes.

[cnelk]

I just back from scouting GMU 61 for my achery hunt in Sept.
In 2 days I put 65 miles on my ATV and hiked 12 miles thru the scrub oaks, aspens, and pines.
Placed a trail camera on a water hole
Saw over 100 head of elk, lots of deer.
Heard some July bugles and some real nice bulls

I 'played' with this cow yesterday morning...
I saw a few cows ahead of me ~75yds, I did a calf call twice and then watched the response
At the end you will notice the wind is drifting right to left....


http://s207.photobucket.com/albums/bb62 ... mingin.mp4

[DaleVR]

Took the horses out for a goood work out yesterday and got our grocery and gear list assemlbed during the ride with my hunting partner. Continue shooting the bow and my own exercises today. The clock is ticking and seems to be going fast, our family has a busy summer schedule so I feel like I'm packing already for the early archery hunt.

[rjdumas]

I went out scouting today and yesterday. Found out I have to up my workout to 2 a days (like football and basketball) for 6 weeks straight.
Morning and night run and workouts. I'm more out of shape then what I thought.

[Harmy]

Overnighter back pack. Short 1.5 mile hike in Sat (1000 feet vertical). Yesterday summited peak at 11,088 feet for 4000 vertical. Break-in trip for my new Kennetrek's which were purchased after reviews on the "whats on your feet" thread. Good recommendations but more break-in needed... Now I have to sell two pair of Pronghorn's ( size 9-Danner heel pocket does not fit me well enough).

[Lefty]

Going scouting

Cool, cloudy, Headed out to check the water where I hunt there is an old guzzler that I plan to fix and see if thats where the bulls are hiding

[mattstanton]

ran a mile and shot my bow. Every day, the same routine with lots of hiking with a 60lb pack on the weekends.

[LckyTylr]

Winding down on the runs this week allowing my legs to get ready for my race this weekend. Did 4.5 miles tonight. 2 Miles Wednesday. 17 miles between Friday and Saturday.

THEN, I can REALLY focus on Elk legs, packing weight up hills!

[LckyTylr]

Race went well (Ponderosa Pine Relay). My first leg was 9.02 miles, didn't do as well as I had wanted. I started around 3 at 95 degrees and the entire distance was up the river, not a single bit of downhill or level. The heat kicked my butt, I couldn't get water back into my system. Second leg was awesome, did a 7:22 min/mile pace for my 3.8 miles for the night run in pitch black. It was mostly downhill, but still, I felt pretty good. My last leg (3.75 miles) was around noon today and it hurt pretty bad. Calves, hamies and quads all gave out with about a mile and a half to go. It was hard to keep going, but I had a pretty good finish and was happy to be done with it.

My team ROCKED!!!! We led for most of the race, so we were the Guinea pigs. This was the inaugural Ponderosa Pine Relay, so there were quite a few glitches with directions and such, during my night run, I ended up at the relay exchange and my team and replacement runner were nowhere to be found. I waited there for 10 minutes while they desperately tried to find me. The roads weren't marked correctly and they were sent on a wild goose chase. It was pure coincidence that they found me, as they didn't supply maps that showed enough detail to be useful. Once they arrived, the exchange official had no idea of which road to send my replacement, as I had arrived down the road where she thought we were supposed to run. We picked the wrong direction and my replacement lost another 20 minutes and wasted some energy trying to find the right way. Same thing happened to the other half of my team. That cost our team more than an hour of race time, and we only lost by 20 minutes after a 195 mile race. Kinda frustrating, but Team "Slightly Delirious" kicked A$$. It was a lot of fun, except for the running, running is dumb!

[easeup]

we had some long range shooting practice today and talked about the upcoming trip to the rockies.
I was 110F here today. that made it hard to concentrate on our marksmanship.
It sure doesnt seem like elk hunting either.

[elkmtngear]

Hiked about 3/4 mile straight up a canyon with a treestand on my pack frame, sawed what must have been a couple hundred pounds of limbs and hauled them off the trails, set the stand and trail cam.

Shot a dozen arrows when I got home. Watched an elk hunting video. My Family is in L.A. visiting relatives, so this is MY TIME!

Best of Luck,
Jeff

[WapitiTalk1]

Hiked about 3/4 mile straight up a canyon with a treestand on my pack frame, sawed what must have been a couple hundred pounds of limbs and hauled them off the trails, set the stand and trail cam.

Shot a dozen arrows when I got home. Watched an elk hunting video. My Family is in L.A. visiting relatives, so this is MY TIME!

Best of Luck,
Jeff

Now that's a great day! What's on the schedule for tomorrow?

[elkohalic]

Mowed my whole 2 acre yard with a push mower and 40 + pound pack on, Now I'm refletching some arrows, and watching a elk hunting video

[RockChucker30]

Monday I ran sprints in the morning, then did pistols. In the afteroon I set my bow up 50 yards from the target, sprinted to the target, pulled my arrow, sprinted back to the bow, and shot again. I repeated that 5 times. I'm hoping it'll help me control the adrenaline rush when shooting at an animal.

Tuesday I did upper body with a few more pistols.

Yesterday I was so sore I didn't do much.

This morning I got some glassing practice whitetail scouting and listened to the audio playbook on the way to work. I'll get a run in tonight.

[Freebird134]

I've been trying to focus on cardio and shedding a few pounds as the next 6 weeks close in. I figure the easiest and cheapest way to lighten my load is to drop a few pounds. I'm not overweight by any means, but I can spare 5 pounds. There sure isnt any way for me to drop 5 pounds off my pack weight at this point, so the belly it is. 30 minutes on the eliptical and 30 minutes in the weight room this morning.

[>>>---WW---->]

Hopped on the scale today. Lost another 11 pounds. Started out @252#. Down to 184 now. I'd like to trim of at least another 10# before the season.

[bowpackerrob]

5 mile run followed by 20 minute insanity warmup this am. Shot bow at 20, 30, and 40 yards. 5 shots at each distance.

[Freebird134]

Hopped on the scale today. Lost another 11 pounds. Started out @252#. Down to 184 now. I'd like to trim of at least another 10# before the season.

WOW! Congrats! How long did it take you to go from 252 to 184?

[RockChucker30]

I ran 3 miles this morning. I practiced calling on the way to work.

[eltaco]

Hopped on the scale today. Lost another 11 pounds. Started out @252#. Down to 184 now. I'd like to trim of at least another 10# before the season.

Wow, Bill... that's great work!

So is this your yearly routine?

[snake]

Wished I was going elk hunting this fall. Run 4.5 miles today after work. It'll be a real treat this afternoon when the temp will be about 101.

[Charkbait]

had a really good week of prep:

got 4 one hour heavy lifts in to keep muscle mass up
got 5 one hour fasted road bike ridees in each morning
did a 2 hour pack hike this morning @60#
shot 200 arrows this week from 20yds-90yds, made some tweaks to #1 and #2 bows and tightened groups up a hair resulting in a robin hood @ 40yds
been calling on the way to and from work


Still recovering from knee surgery in March but this is the hardest I've been able to go so far. averaged 3 hours of "prep" per day this week even wtih 2 small kids, 5:00 comes early but you have to invent time to do this stuff with little ones around.

still 7 weeks out for me, have serious elk brain at this point.

[ctdad]

I did my first ever sprint triathlon this morning. It went really well. I really enjoyed incorporating this into my elk hunting training this year.

[CrazyElkHunter]

Made a few more game bags for hunting partners. Took quad out of storage, charged battery, checked all fluids, tires and added 2013 OHV Permit from Colorado. 1 hour workout on stationary bike and treadmill. Putting off 4th knee surgery til I get back from hunt. Scar tissue broke off in right knee 2 weeks ago and grinding pain and popping. Great timing! Grrrrrrr! Getting old sucks!

[Freebird134]

My gun club is mostly a shotgun club, but they have a bunch of 3d targets wasting away in a shed. I pulled out the Mule Deer and Elk today and started practicing. Boy is it different shooting at an elk's side than a spot on a foam target! Great practice!!!!

[alan_gruver]

I walked 2 miles with 80#'s in my packframe.

[Harmy]

Saturday, scouting a couple of spots. Hiked about 4 miles.
Sunday, scouting two spots. Found some nice springs. Hiked about 2 miles.
Monday, steep hike-2500 vertical in about 3 miles.

[dreamingbig]

I packed for a scouting trip this weekend. I shot my bow (broadheads too) and I ran 5 miles. A little over a month to go!

[Vanish]

A big part of my training (from this past Saturday):



Can't think of much better than carrying a pack at 11k+ feet!

[RockChucker30]

Beautiful spot Vanish!

This morning I ran a mile to a big hill, did a series of sprints up the hill, then ran back home.

[Freebird134]

Got up early and drove to the closest spot that has "some" topography, Devils Lake. Over an hour drive to find a steep trail with about 500ft of elevation! I went up and down two times with a 60lb pack. Still not the 1500' of climbing we have to do to get into our area (plus the 500' down the other side) but making due with Wisconsin topography!

[Harmy]

Another good hike. 6 miles. 3000 elevation. Up to about 35000 in 6 weeks now. Nearly every time I see moose but no elk. Darn it...

[pointysticks]

still resting my sore knee.

but i did think outside the box...

i did hunting truck maintenance..new sparkplugs, topped off fluid. tonight, oil/filter change, new air cleaner, and rotate my tires. then take it to a buddy to get the battery load tested..replace if needed. my truck..gets me there and back..the money saved by DIYing..goes into my hiding place for the elk trip.

this weekend..maybe a nice bike ride..and if my knee feels GREAT..i resume my heavy hikes.

[bowpackerrob]

5 mile run in 45 minutes, 30 squats in 3 sets of 10, shot bow at 30 40 adn 50 yards, 10 shots at each range.

[dreamingbig]

I just spent 3 days in my elk unit. Averaged 8 miles per day with 50ish lbs on the back and bow in hand (bear season was open). C'mon September!

[RockChucker30]

Yesterday I ran a series of ten hill sprints. This morning I got up at 5:30 and did P90X Plyometrics. And I've been doing a few pistols in my office to keep my legs limber. I'll be sore in a day or two!

[easeup]

well, I went to the family reunion this weekend....check that one off the list and it will not interfere with hunting season now.

[elkohalic]

Hauled in $ 258.00 worth of scrap metal out of one of my ravines.

[WapitiTalk1]

Hunting buddy came over to go over some maps. He spent the weekend scouting ID in our two hunting areas. Good news is he saw some pretty darn nice bulls.. Bad news is it's still over a month till we leave RJ

[HurricaneHuge]

Been awhile since I've entered in. Been getting my "2 a days" in with regularity. Workouts and hikes with pack on. Down some weight which is good, but have a lot more to drop. Hard to find hills with much elevation here in WI, but anyone near Madison might want to check out the Blackhawk hill outside of Sauk City on 78. Decent elevation in a short time, not great, but a peak at over 1000' (hey, it's WI, we take what we can get). Body is starting to feel mobile.

[Jahnke76]

Been awhile since I've entered in. Been getting my "2 a days" in with regularity. Workouts and hikes with pack on. Down some weight which is good, but have a lot more to drop. Hard to find hills with much elevation here in WI, but anyone near Madison might want to check out the Blackhawk hill outside of Sauk City on 78. Decent elevation in a short time, not great, but a peak at over 1000' (hey, it's WI, we take what we can get). Body is starting to feel mobile.

There are a few hills like that around. I found a good one up by lodi. The problem was if your not careful you go down really fast and break alot of things in the process. Its ok though there are large boulders to hit your head on to stop you. Now I need a new Gps.

[HurricaneHuge]

[/quote]There are a few hills like that around. I found a good one up by lodi. The problem was if your not careful you go down really fast and break alot of things in the process. Its ok though there are large boulders to hit your head on to stop you. Now I need a new Gps.[/quote]

I'll let Randy know we need to pick up a gps line ASAP

[one_elk]

Roller skied 15K this am, 3d shoot this evening.....

[HurricaneHuge]

Roller skied 15K this am, 3d shoot this evening.....

Big cross country skier? I'm venturing into that more this year (hopefully with success)

[RockChucker30]

Practiced calling yesterday and listened to the playbook for 2+ hours while driving. This morning I ran 2.5 miles and did hill sprints. 77° with 91% humidity at 6 AM!