October 9, 2026 · Leandro Scheurle
When we find ourselves in the heart of any supreme piece of nature, we are often moved not only by appreciating the spectacle itself, but mostly by the simple energy it radiates and, above all, by the realization of our subtle walk through one of its many corners. In reality, power and wanting to actively belong to the domains of said natural power brings along an endless number of values associated with the environment, well-being, and health that are important to know and manage with good judgment.
Below, I will set forth some important factors (10) that directly influence, in my criteria, a personal outing, a group outing, a simple getaway to a natural environment, or a complex technical climb toward a desired summit.
Innate physical condition contributes to good or poor performance. However, being able to train weekly and maintain a progressive regimen will undoubtedly help us stay in shape, with more than enough energy for any adverse circumstance we might need to resolve. Both physical training and learning how to breathe and recover represent the right formula for initial planning when preparing for an outing. 
For hikers visiting the catwalks of Iguazú National Park, those on the viewing platforms of the Perito Moreno Glacier, or sailors on a whale-watching tour in Puerto Pirámides, many will say that having good fitness is by no means necessary. What is certainly true is that the more focus one places on a proper physical and mental condition, the greater our appreciation and enjoyment of the natural spectacle will be.
Recommended: join specific mountain training groups or ask professionals for a tailored training plan.
Variations between: aerobic—jogging starting from 30 minutes, 3 or 4 times a week. Ascent and descent training on ravines or stairs (buildings) with a loaded backpack (progressively varying the weight). Climbing wall (or gym) training. Heading out to the mountains every so often.
Proper hydration is often forgotten, yet it is a fundamental tool when starting a period of sustained walking with a backpack on your shoulders, pulling on a demanding zip line, climbing a route, or simply setting off on foot down a short trail.
Is plain water enough? It depends. The fluid always needs to contain minerals/salts. In other words, if we eat easily digestible foods and drink water, we will be well on our way to proper hydration.
How do we know if we are well-hydrated to start? Checking the color of urine, lips, and other signs only serves to tell us that we are already dehydrated and that it is late. A good and almost foolproof method (besides carrying enough fluid in your pack) is drinking fluids well before starting the activity.
Recommended:
Drink 1 ½ liters of mineral water, juice, or water with 1 cereal bar during the two (2) hours prior to the activity. 
Properly packing the backpack you will use for the activity is a key factor to consider. If the frame is slightly tilted to one side, if the heaviest items are too high or too low, or if the straps are not working as they should, your body will feel the wear and tear, gradually throwing off your balance and ultimately reducing your performance with potential cramps or various aches.
Recommended: Be aware that backpacks range in quality from very poor to very high. There are models designed for women, men, and different torso sizes. Whether borrowing or buying, it must be suited to your body. Finally, learning how to pack a backpack properly is essential.
How am I feeling emotionally before undertaking the activity? Can I attain the focus needed to concentrate on every maneuver, the terrain I am stepping on, and choosing the correct path forward? Lack of attention and proper mindset can trigger an injury from a misstep or simply lead to losing direction, resulting in physical and mental-emotional fatigue. Staying focused on the task at hand is paramount.
Individual technical ability on the terrain is a valuable tool with direct physical impact, and it must be honed during every practice and outing. In the long run, experience is what will provide safety and confidence across many passages.
To ascend a steep slope in a short time, to traverse a complex hillside, to descend through a gully filled with embedded rocks, or to climb an exhilarating scree slope of loose slate: there is always a less tiring way. Are there formulas? Yes, but they aren't one-size-fits-all. Everyone must test and practice as often as possible across all terrains they encounter. I will briefly outline a way to descend steep, hard-packed slopes, where the highest number of injuries or knee discomfort usually occurs.
Recommended: learn about ascent, descent, side-hilling, and travel techniques over different types of terrain. Ask your guide (if you are going with one) to teach you the basic techniques.
How many times have we heard that in the mountains you can only eat polenta, rice, and pasta? However, developing your cooking skills in natural settings is one of the most rewarding tasks. The options are endless. In your backpack, you can even carry fresh items like fruits, vegetables, and even meats. The menus will depend on the planned activity, the location, and the access route. In the mountains, we cannot afford the luxury—as some do—of skipping breakfast entirely. In the mountains, if you don't eat well, you go home. And this isn't just about food needing to be rich in carbs, rich in protein, etc.
Under normal conditions, consuming an energy snack every two hours, having 4 daily meals, and staying well-hydrated is enough. Skimping on food is neither advisable nor safe. Our safety depends on it as well.
This point is about knowing how to choose clothing and equipment based on the environment you are visiting and prioritizing functionality. Carrying a great tent, a high-end fleece, and a super flashlight means little if you are walking uncomfortably due to a backpack lacking adjustment straps, wearing running shoes in flooded areas, or sleeping in a poor sleeping bag in cold conditions. Our safety and performance are directly linked to the gear we carry.
A-B-C-D: The ABCs of gear represent what I consider the core foundation before thinking about purchasing other items. Whenever possible, we should aim for quality. A: Proper footwear (Calzado). B: Outer shell jacket / Anorak. C: Backpack (Mochila). D: Sleeping bag (Bolsa de dormir).
Recommended: request advance information on what to bring (if participating in an organized tour). Consult with specialists to review brands and options before making a decision. Reputable brands often have low-quality, overpriced products.
If I am not convinced about an activity, I don't do it; but if I have made the decision to do it, I proceed with the necessary inner confidence and self-assurance. Intense mountain activities require this quality, which ultimately becomes the essential discipline needed to know oneself. Knowing my strengths, knowing my weaknesses, knowing my intentions, knowing my enthusiasm, knowing my fortitude, knowing my limits, and ultimately having the judgment and courage to make crucial decisions—such as turning around and heading back in time.
Respect does not mean fear. The environment in which we move possesses unique and unrepeatable conditions. Fear can paralyze me and leave me without the strength to continue. Respecting it means understanding the scale, magic, and wisdom of the place. I show respect to no one other than myself. I respect the mountain I am climbing when I contemplate its vastness and picture myself within it. I respect nature when I leave the place better than I found it. If I pick up my trash, I can do it because someone imposes it on me or because I am truly convinced that it would be great for the next person passing through to feel the same awe. An orange peel is biodegradable, but it is also bio-disgusting. Who wants to reach an impressive waterfall only to see peels scattered around?
Before traveling, before starting the activity, during, and after, it is always important to know how and be able to rest properly. 
Resting both body and mind correctly, and taking the necessary time to do so. Running on few hours of sleep introduces unnecessary risks that handicap us physically, technically, mentally, and even reduce our enjoyment of the activity. If I am exhausted, I will never be able to perform at my best.
