The need for exceptional physical fitness cannot be over-emphasised. A regular, strenuous programme must be followed for many months to achieve the level of fitness required. We recommend a training programme tailored to mountaineering such as the 24-week plan from Uphill Athlete.
Team members need to be physically fit, have strong mental stamina and be capable of strenuous exercise in a cold environment for several days. You can expect to be exerting yourself for about 6–8 hours per day (10–12 hours on summit day).
You must be capable of carrying 15kg in your pack and be able to haul an additional 25kg on a sled when moving to the Low Camp and around 18-25kg in your pack climbing to High Camp. The expedition is unsupported, meaning that there is no porter support. You must be capable of carrying your personal gear plus your fair share of any group equipment up and down the mountain.
All team members will also be expected to assist in putting up and breaking camps, and help out with meal-making while on the mountain.