Prevent injuries to fully enjoy hunting and fishing

Having fun in nature is awesome! But the varied and uneven environment eventually tires the body. Carrying a rifle, a fishing rod, or a backpack on bumpy trails often causes pain. Many have already had to cancel a hunting trip or a cabin reservation due to an injury. One of the greatest benefits of training remains the prevention of these injuries that can halt an entire season of hunting or fishing.

Joint stability

A stable joint protects against missteps, muddy terrains, and sudden movements. To make it strong, you need to target the deep muscles that truly support the joint. Exercises with free weights, elastic bands, or balance postures create controlled instability that develops strength. Result: more resilient ankles, hips, and shoulders to carry your moose hunting gear or cross difficult passages in the forest.

Cardiovascular and muscular endurance

Walking for a long time behind a flow, going up a river, or tracking game requires good endurance. A trained heart delays fatigue and makes every outing more enjoyable. Muscle strengthening, in addition to supporting outdoor activities, slows joint degeneration and prevents osteoarthritis. Every challenge becomes an opportunity to extend the adventure, whether in hunting, fishing, or hiking.

Posture and safe handling

Lifting a bag of equipment, an engine, or even a moose requires precise techniques. Always bend the legs, keep the back straight, tighten the abdominals, and open the chest to avoid injuries. These simple gestures, applied during every lift, protect the lower back and reduce the risk of accidents.

Home training program

To develop these physical qualities, all it takes is an adapted routine. Five exercises to practice: single-leg balance, external shoulder rotation with elastic band, step-up, squat, and push-up. Between 12 and 15 repetitions, one to three sets depending on available energy.

These movements resemble fly fishing, forest hiking, or carrying a boat. For cardio, every opportunity counts: hiking, cycling outings, or group jogging. The more, the better. Each session increases joint stability and improves endurance, essential for continuing to enjoy your outdoor activities without limitation.

By Jérôme Blouin and Olivier Le Blanc, kinesiologists at Fitsanté