When Eva stood on the summit of the world’s tallest peak on May 18, 2025, she broke a 17-year-old record, becoming the oldest American woman to do so. Five days later, another woman—Susan Agar, age 66—stood in the same place, quietly surpassing her. Eva responded not with disappointment, but with genuine pride and admiration. She publicly celebrated Susan and her accomplishment, lifting her up rather than lamenting her own loss of the record.

After hearing from hundreds of climbers during our Masters Mountaineering webinar, one thing is crystal clear: you’re not done climbing, you just want to do it your way. More than 80% of participants told us they were looking for something different. They wanted to move at a more intentional pace. To climb with like-minded teammates. To chase purpose over performance. Whether you’re getting back in shape, starting fresh in your 50s, or just tired of chasing younger, faster teammates up the hill, you are not alone.

We designed Masters Mountaineering with you in mind. This program offers thoughtfully paced, expertly guided expeditions tailored for climbers 50 and up. It’s about dialing in, not dialing back. About preparation, connection, and building something that lasts longer than the summit buzz. 

Here’s where we are climbing: 

No matter your age, the mountains demand respect. But for climbers over 50, smart prep isn’t optional—it’s essential. We’ve gathered some of the best insights from Eva Steinwald, high-altitude physician Dr. Emily Johnston, and veteran climber Alan Arnette to help you train wisely, fuel effectively, and stay resilient when things get hard.

Training: Train Smart, Not Just Hard

As we age, our bodies demand a more thoughtful approach to training. It’s not about backing off, it’s about building a foundation that holds up in the big mountains. That means more recovery time, less ego, and a big focus on strength, balance, and flexibility.

Strength training is essential—but not the only piece. Yoga, single-leg work, and core exercises are key to maintaining balance and proprioception, especially on uneven terrain and during technical moves. Don’t just run, train for the terrain you’ll face on summit day.

Nutrition: Eat Like It Matters (Because It Does)

Altitude messes with your appetite, digestion, and food preferences. And yet, you need fuel—reliable, digestible, comforting fuel—more than ever. It’s not the time to try something new or stick to a strict diet.

Eva prepped her food in Ziplock bags, camp by camp, so there were no decisions to make at altitude; just eat and keep moving. Warm snacks, protein, and familiar foods go a long way. And don’t forget your gut health. Probiotics and fiber can help your body handle the stress and strain of high altitude.

Acclimatization & Efficiency: Slow is Fast

If there’s one truth about climbing high, it’s this: rushing ruins everything. Your body needs time to adjust to thinner air, and cutting corners can lead to serious setbacks. That’s why every CTSS trip builds in acclimatization rotations, extra recovery, and proven altitude strategies like the rest step and pressure breathing.

Eva’s Everest ascent was built on this philosophy. Her body thrived on slower rotations, and her summit was stronger because of it. Hydration plays a role, too, but as Dr. Em reminds us, overhydrating can be just as dangerous. Listen to your body. Clear pee is good, but constant peeing isn’t the goal. And yes, you’ll lose water just from breathing up there.

Editor’s Note: While there’s no shortcut to acclimatization, it is possible to shorten your time on the mountain through long-term pre-acclimatization at home. Our Speed Ascents program uses Hypoxico altitude tents and structured training to help climbers safely reduce their time at altitude, without skipping the physiological adaptation your body needs to succeed.

Mindset & Resilience: This Is the Real Work

The physical challenge of climbing is obvious. But the real mountain—the one inside your head—can be harder. Mental fitness means trusting yourself, staying grounded, and learning from every moment, summit or not.

When things got tough, Eva leaned on three simple words: “Can’t. Must. Did.” This mantra started as a reaction to self-doubt. When Eva found herself thinking, “I can’t,” she flipped the script: “If I must, then I will.” And when she did the thing she once feared? That was the final piece: “I Did.” For Eva, it’s a reminder that fear isn’t a stop sign—it’s a signal. A cue to pay attention, steady yourself, summon resolve, and take the next step. Eva’s mantra doesn’t guarantee success, but it helps her show up with intention, trust the process, and give her all, no matter the outcome.

Eva isn’t done climbing. She’s taking time to reflect on her experiences on Everest, making note of the many things she learned, while also training for Spartan races, eyeing more Nepalese peaks, and her 7 Summits x 70 mission fully in motion. She’s climbing like someone who has just hit her stride.

Her story isn’t about defying age. It’s about embracing it with humility, presence, and a sense of what’s still possible. Eva’s story is proof that the mountain doesn’t care how old you are, but it will meet you exactly where you are.

Our inaugural Masters climbs are open, and we want you to come meet your moment with ample support, like-minded climbers, and a program built on purpose.

As we expand this program, we’re looking to add more expeditions tailored for climbers 50+ who want to take on big mountains with expert support and a smart approach. Which peak, or peaks, should be our next Masters Mountaineering destination? Click below to help us shape the future of this program!