FAQs: VI Mountain Training
Here’s a comprehensive FAQ page tailored to potential clients of Vancouver Island Mountain Training:
General Questions
1. What is Vancouver Island Mountain Training?
Vancouver Island Mountain Training specializes in personalized fitness and skills coaching for outdoor sports like trail running, climbing, hiking, and backcountry adventures.
2. Who is this training for?
Our programs are for anyone who loves the mountains—whether you’re a beginner looking to get started or an experienced adventurer aiming to improve your performance.
3. Do I need prior experience to join?
No prior experience is required. Our programs are tailored to your current fitness level and goals, whether you’re new to mountain sports or a seasoned athlete.
4. What makes your training different from a standard personal trainer?
We focus specifically on mountain sports, combining fitness, endurance, and technical skill-building with a deep understanding of Vancouver Island’s terrain and outdoor challenges.
5. Where is your training based?
We are based on Vancouver Island and specialize in its unique terrain, but we also provide training for adventures and expeditions abroad.
Training and Services
6. What types of training do you offer?
We provide coaching for trail running, rock climbing, alpine skills, backcountry skiing, and general mountain fitness.
7. Are your training plans personalized?
Yes, all of our training plans are customized to meet your specific goals, fitness level, and available time for training.
8. How long are the training programs?
Our programs typically range from 3 to 6 months, depending on your goals, but shorter-term options are available for specific events or trips.
9. Can I train remotely if I don’t live on Vancouver Island?
Yes, we offer remote coaching programs, integrating tools like TrainingPeaks and GPS devices to keep you on track wherever you are.
10. Do you offer group training sessions?
Yes, we occasionally host group sessions, workshops, and mountain clinics for trail running, climbing, and navigation skills.
Fitness and Skills
11. I’m training for an FKT. Can you help?
Absolutely! We specialize in preparing athletes for Fastest Known Time (FKT) attempts with tailored fitness plans, route strategies, and mental resilience coaching.
12. Can you help me prepare for a specific trip or climb?
Yes, we offer goal-specific training plans for trips and climbs, including multi-day alpine adventures, overseas expeditions, and technical routes.
13. What equipment do I need to start training?
Basic fitness gear like running shoes and resistance bands is a good start. For outdoor-specific training, we recommend having trail running or climbing shoes, trekking poles, and access to a GPS device.
14. Do you teach technical skills like navigation or rappelling?
Yes, we offer skills clinics for technical aspects like navigation, route planning, rappelling, and mountain safety.
15. How do you incorporate recovery into training plans?
Recovery is a key part of every program, with guidelines on foam rolling, stretching, rest days, and cross-training to prevent injury and optimize performance.
Technology and Integration
16. How does TrainingPeaks work with your programs?
We use TrainingPeaks to deliver your workouts directly to your devices, allowing you to track progress, sync with GPS watches, and get real-time feedback.
17. Can I sync your training plans with my smartwatch or GPS device?
Yes, all our plans can be integrated with devices like Garmin, Suunto, and Apple Watch for seamless tracking.
18. Do you provide video demonstrations for exercises?
Yes, our plans include video tutorials for specific exercises to ensure proper form and technique.
Getting Started
19. How do I get started?
Simply contact us via our website to schedule a consultation. We’ll discuss your goals and create a personalized plan to help you succeed.
20. What’s the cost of your programs?
$265 per month