Decision 3: I Am Physically Capable?

I have to admit, from the time I began to dream of doing this hike, I wondered about my physical condition. I've had chronic back pain for the past 25 yr. and my past employment led to a fairly sedentary lifestyle. Once I get home from work, I turn into a couch potato.

We made conscious effort to go for evening walks, enjoying a 2 mile loop that includes 2 stair ways. We increased vegetables and fruit to our diets, decreasing junk foods. We're not the epitome of health, but for a 50 yr. old couple, we we're in decent shape.

"Decent shape" is not good enough, considering the hike I chose is rated "STRENUOUS". I stepped up my exercise regimen, including more extreme leg exercises, and hikes in which I wore a backpack with the approximate weight we'd carry on the hike I signed up for -- the South Kaibab/Bright Angel Loop 3-day hike.

I chose the April 18th trip, after studying the average temperatures that I'd be most comfortable with. I'm born and raised in Southeast Alaska, so my April averages look more like 50° High and 34° Low, compared to the April South Rim averages of 79° High and 39°

Fortunately, Four Seasons Guide supplied me with Training Information for Backpacking Trips. I have 2 months to prepare.