This program targets intermediate to advanced users seeking to enhance VO2 max, total body resilience, and performance in demanding activities such as backcountry adventures or high-stakes situations. Start your free trial and train for the first 2 weeks free. Cancel any time. (All programs are included in the MTNTOUGH+ Membership.)
Format: Follow-along and self-guided workouts with video demonstrations, supported by PDFs, accessible via the MTNTOUGH+ app.
Duration: 4 weeks, 5 workouts per week (Monday through Friday), with a mix of conditioning and strength days.
Workout Length: 30 minutes, including warmups, interval-based efforts, functional movements, and cool downs.
Focus: Interval training for VO2 max and energy system development; total body strength via cleans, lunges, snatches, squats, and choppers; assault bike conditioning on three days (glycolytic sprints on Mondays, 3-4 minute VO2 max intervals on Wednesdays, and 2-3 minute max efforts on Fridays); asymmetrical loads and alternative grips to improve balance, stability, and mental toughness.
Modifications are available for limited equipment, such as substituting bodyweight or dumbbell alternatives.
Physical Therapist & Strength/Conditioning Coach
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.
A Division-1 soccer player-turned-personal trainer specializing in Mountain Athletes. 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.
Set it and forget it - no hassle one-time yearly billing for the best value.
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.
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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.
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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![]()
The Best Heavy Pack Workout to Build the Strength and Endurance for Backcountry Hunting. Forge the muscle endurance and strength needed for backcountry hunting with MTNTOUGH Fitness' heavy pack workout.
Men's Journal![]()
Programs for the gym, home gym or body weight. MTNTOUGH+ has on-demand workouts on your phone, tablet, TV or computer. Location is not an excuse.
Wold-class industry trainers, former military leaders, and avid backcountry hunters will keep you encouraged, motivated and on the correct path.
Programs are meticulously and scientifically tested in the Lab with local athletes before release so they are effective, safe, and improve your odds in the feild.
