Physical distancing may have impacted your physical training, but it doesn’t have to stop your preparation. We collaborated with Marcus Shapiro, Head Trainer at Fit For Trips, to help you stay in shape for your Kilimanjaro trek. The exercises below are designed to strengthen the leg and core muscles that help you maintain stability on the trail—from Kilimanjaro’s lush rainforest to its icy glacial peaks. Improving your balance will help prevent falls or stumbles, ultimately reducing the risk of injuries on the mountain. The following balance-training exercises are easy to add to your current workout routine at home:

Add two to three sets of one of the following exercises into your workout:

Single Leg Balance

One minute (easy) Stand upright with your shoulders back and eyes forward. Raise one leg, bending your knee at a 90° angle. Hold for one minute, then switch to the other leg.

Single Leg Balance with Flexion

One minute (moderate) Start in the same position as the first exercise. Raise and lower one leg while keeping your knee bent at a 90° angle. This movement helps you practice stabilizing as your center of gravity shifts. Helpful Tip: Raise your arms and use them as counterweights for more stability. Helpful Tip: If you lose balance and touch the ground, don’t restart the timer! Just lift your leg back up and continue.

Single Leg Lean Over

10–15 repetitions (moderate/advanced) Place a small object on the ground in front of you. Stand on one foot with your shoulders back and eyes forward. Lean forward from your hips, keeping your non-standing leg aligned with your torso. Touch the object with your fingertips, then rise back up. Repeat for the desired reps. Advanced Option: Use an object closer to the ground to increase your range of motion and develop greater hamstring strength and stability.

Train Your Balance Further

If you feel confident on solid ground, try performing these exercises on pillows, foam blocks, or inflatable disks. The added instability will strengthen your ankles and teach your body to maintain balance in challenging conditions. Remember: Safety is your priority. Always use your best judgment when deciding what exercises you can safely perform. Ready to experience Tanzania like never before? Book your safari with I Artist Adventure today!