Elbrus is a great trip in that there are no technical prerequisites – you don’t need any prior technical mountaineering experience as we cover all of that in our comprehensive skills clinic as part of your climb. (Whether you are learning these for the first time or as a refresher or just good practice as an advanced climber, these are foundational skills you will use religiously throughout your entire climbing career) From a technical standpoint, it is an ideal first alpine climb.

That said, there is a prerequisite that you are physically very fit and healthy. Elbrus shouldn’t be dismissed ‘as easy’ just because it is suitable for beginners. Like any high altitude mountain it should not be underestimated.

You need to be very physically fit and able to dedicate time to ‘climbing specific training’ in the lead up to your expedition. Being in top shape will also ensure you enjoy your climb, feel good throughout and get the most out of the experience.

It is vital that your training closely simulates what you will be doing on the mountain. Traditional gym workouts or general fitness plans aren’t targeted enough. Instead you need to emulate long physical days (8hrs +) in the mountains

We recommend that you:

• Start specific mountaineering training at least 3 months in advance
• Train at least 5 days a week for an hour or more
• Focus on high volume but low intensity training
• A good goal is to be able to comfortably climb 1,500 vertical ft per hour with 6-8kg, 15lbs day pack
• Schedule a few weekends where you can do two or more full days back to back. Multi day hikes with good elevation are ideal.

Mindset and mental preparation are integral to your success on any peak.

You should be prepared:

• To be away from home/work for 2 weeks with short periods of being out of range
• Have a desire for rugged adventure travel
• Be open to receiving and deferring to guidance, support and advice from your guides/expedition leaders (even if you are an experienced mountaineer)
• Be comfortable having open conversations with your guides
• Be able to work well in a team environment by being supportive and respectful of fellow team mates
• Be humble, respectful and considerate even under pressure