MTNTOUGH+ training programs are trusted by backcountry hunters, SOF operators, and everyday warriors to build unbreakable physical and mental toughness for hunting, the mission, or life. Take the quiz to discover your starting point:
After nine plus years of studying backcountry hunting, one truth has become clear: your body and mind are your ultimate gear. Physical and mental preparation provide the true advantage in enhancing your effectiveness in the backcountry. At MTNTOUGH, we offer a variety of programs designed to help you prepare both mentally and physically for backcountry hunting.
The goal isn’t to look fit; the goal is to actually be fit. Endurance and resilience is what we are after, and most importantly resilience of the mind. If you work for it, looking better will certainly happen, but forging an unbeatable mind is the primary objective. It is about training your mind so that it is on your side, not working against you.
You can train in the comfort of your own home and on your own schedule—no gym required. Our minimal equipment and bodyweight programs are perfect for mountain hunters who have limited space.
If you enjoy training at your local fitness center or have a home gym, our gym-based programs are specifically designed to meet the needs of mountain hunters in a gym based setting.
You might not start as an elite athlete, but MTNTOUGH programing will get you to elite status. With thoughtful programing we meet you where you are at to achieve your personal fitness goals.
At MTNTOUGH we transforming lives by fostering mental toughness and resilience through its uniquely challenging fitness programs. By emphasizing grit, discipline, and community support, we empower individuals to push beyond physical and mental limits. Countless users have reported increased confidence, purpose, and strength not just in the backcountry—but in everyday life.
The Wild Sheep Foundation is the official conservation partner of MTNTOUGH. Together, we are committed to protecting wild sheep populations and preserving wild places for future generations. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to perseverance, resilience, and the stewardship of the land. Through joint initiatives, MTNTOUGH and the Wild Sheep Foundation aim to inspire a community of hunters, athletes, and conservationists.
Founder
Dustin Diefenderfer helps individuals reach their specific personal and professional goals by pushing them to become more mentally tough. An ultramarathoner and backcountry hunter, Dustin focuses on mountain and hunting conditioning to achieve success in all aspects of life. A National Academy of Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer, Dustin’s overall philosophy is based on work ethic, grit and helping his clients learn to be comfortable being uncomfortable.
Head Trainer
Sarah graduated from Vanderbilt University, where she played Division 1 Varsity soccer. With over 16 years as a NASM-certified personal trainer and strength coach, she works with athletes of all levels. Specializing in Performance Enhancement and Corrective Exercise, Sarah creates innovative programs that motivate MTNTOUGHers to overcome challenges and promote longevity and resilience for mountain athletes.
Physical Therapist and Strength / Conditioning Specialist
Dr. Nick Bechtold is an orthopedic physical therapist passionate about bridging rehab and performance. In conjunction with his wife Anna, he runs Movement Physio within the MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab, coaching mountain and military tactical athletes for over two years. A certified strength and conditioning specialist, Nick earned his B.A. in human biology and Doctor of Physical Therapy from the University of Montana.
Power Yoga Coach
Danni is a dedicated yoga instructor specializing in Power Yoga, where she combines strength and mindfulness in every class. She encourages practitioners to challenge their limits and embrace discomfort for growth. Focusing on building resilience, Danni motivates individuals to push beyond boundaries and unlock their full potential, inspiring them to achieve breakthroughs they never thought possible.
Strength, Power, and Conditioning Trainer
Zac is a seasoned sports performance coach from Bozeman, Montana, and co-owner of Salvat Performance, specializing in speed and strength training for athletes. Zac excelled as a running back in Joliet High School and continued his career at Orange Coast College. His commitment to sports is also reflected in his impactful community volunteer work.
Mindset Coach
Phil Kornachuk enhances mental toughness for the MTNTOUGH Community by developing top-performing leaders and teams. With over 30 years of experience, he has influenced corporate leaders, collegiate sports teams, military units, and non-profits. Phil has 22 years in the US Army Special Operations and holds a Bachelor of Science and a Master's in Organizational Leadership from Gonzaga University.
Backcountry Dietitian Nutritionist
Kyle's own experience in losing 140lbs many years ago birthed a passion in him to help others achieve their own goals. He is a registered dietitian through the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and passionate about helping people prepare for and perform optimally in the mountains by tailoring their nutrition in accordance with their training in a realistic, simple, and effective way.
Dr. of Physical Therapy
Tom is a board-certified orthopedic physical therapist and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS). He holds a B.S. in exercise science from Montana State University and a Doctor of Physical Therapy (D.P.T.) from Chapman University. Additionally, he completed a residency in orthopedic manual physical therapy (OMPT) and a fellowship in lower quarter functional biomechanics.
Spiritual Growth Coach
Jim Ramos, married since 1992 and a father of three, brings his extensive experience in ministry and men's leadership to MTNTOUGH. He introduces participants to the philosophy of comprehensive toughness, encompassing physical, mental, emotional, nutritional, and spiritual aspects. Having personally experienced the benefits of MTNTOUGH, Ramos emphasizes the integration of spiritual resilience and moral fortitude in personal development.
Spiritual Growth Coach
Bryan Schwartz is a leadership mentor, NFL veteran, former pastor, motivational speaker, author, and founder of "4th & Short." With a successful NFL career, he helps high-performing leaders and teams overcome stagnation, limiting beliefs, and align their identity with their purpose. Bryan empowers them to break barriers and maximize their potential for lasting impact.
Tactical Advisor
Alex Fichtler, a former Navy SEAL from Montana, has faced challenging conditions globally. He believes in overcoming trials to emerge stronger, stating, “I train in the gym and on the mats, I learn, I hunt, I shoot, and I perform to be my best. My goal is empowering others to discover their mental toughness and become stronger and healthier.”
With an MTNTOUGH membership, you get full access to all our training programs, including physical, mental toughness, and spiritual wellness. Your membership unlocks everything from foundational workouts to elite backcountry hunter training, all designed to build total resilience. Whether you're training at home or in the gym, every program—body, mind, and spirit—is included with no extra cost.
★★★★★Research and Development is at their core, and they spent over two years testing their MTNTOUGH Backcountry Hunter Preseason Prep program on some of the world’s most dedicated mountain hunters.
Stone Glacier![]()
MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab believes eliminating psychological barriers is the key to reaching your goals. Their team, which includes former US Navy SEALs and Army Rangers knows the most important muscle you can train sits between your ears.
SITKA Gear![]()
Forge the muscle endurance and strength needed to become a human pack mule.
Men's Journal![]()
You can make sure your body and mind are ready to take on the toughest tasks the backcountry will throw at you.
Backcountry Hunter Magazine![]()
There is hands down one training program that really trumps them all: MTNTOUGH
Go Hunt![]()
At MTNTOUGH, physical fitness also includes an additional component — mental toughness.
Filson![]()
MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab has established itself as the elite source for improving mental toughness, physical preparation, and performance research for the backcountry hunter.
Journal of Mountain Hunting - 2x![]()
Start your free 14-day MTNTOUGH trial today. We provide various easy payment options. Not sure where to begin? Use our program planner.
If you have more questions, please visit our complete FAQs page for answers.
Access guided training and on-demand workouts from any device.
Everything you need in one spot - including nutrition and mental toughness training.
No equipment needed to start. Beginner to elite level workouts.
World-class industry leaders will keep you encouraged and motivated.
Access all MTNTOUGH+ content and future content. New content uploaded frequently.
From cardio to strength our programs are designed to build the optimal athlete.
