Human performance is a constant evolution. PRESEASON PREP 2.0 is the culmination of four dedicated years of R&D in the MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab with thousands of backcountry hunters to improve our flagship program to make you stronger, faster and more resilient in the mountains. The on-demand 16-week program consists of two eight-week phases that can take a beginner to elite status in only 80 days giving you the ability to train for the demands of the mountains regardless of where you are. 

Or take an elite mountain athlete even further. 

Backcountry hunters face the grueling task to stay physically fit and mentally tough enough to shoulder through high elevation, rugged terrain, multi-day hunts that end with 100+ lb pack-outs and tons of memories. PRESEASON PREP 2.0 breaks down the skill requirements needed so you can train for tough terrain and high elevations no matter where you are with plenty of recovery time and prehab built directly into the program.

Each workout builds upon the one before it, boosting strength and increasing endurance through heavy lifting, intense cardio and pack work so there are no surprises. PRESEASON PREP 2.0 incorporates elevation training, allowing you to complete mission specific workouts to prepare you for high elevations and rugged terrain even if you live at sea level (or below). 

No one wants their fitness level to be the limiting factor during the hunt-of-a-lifetime. And in only 16 weeks, you have the potential to reach peak physical fitness for backcountry success this fall – and into the future. PRESEASON PREP 2.0 is the ultimate program that will make any backcountry athlete thrive during their time on the mountain.

It’s time to hit the mountains running. Start training now.

MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab 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.

“Hunting has always been my passion, and backcountry hunting has tested my mental toughness like nothing else,” says Dustin. “Without a doubt, it has made me a better man."

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. “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.”

A Division-1-soccer-player-turned-personal-trainer, Sarah knows a thing or two about what it takes to get stronger and become a better athlete. It’s all part of the training process – and one she is passionate about. When the Tennessee native isn’t crushing life in the mountains, she’s busy fostering mental toughness for all levels (from beginner to elite) by creating workouts intended to push you to your limits – physically and mentally – and make you stronger inside and out.

“Fitness should be treated as a means to conquer all of your passions — whether it be recreational, professional, spiritual, or your relationships,” says Sarah, who is certified by the National Academy of Sports Medicine and has certificates in Corrective Exercise and Performance Enhancement. 

“We can build our bodies and minds to gain confidence and toughness for any endeavor we choose!  But we have to take the first step. Even if we need our hand held a bit.”