Discover why being fit isn’t the same as being trek-ready and how targeted training improves endurance, pack carry and enjoyment on hikes.

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a classic multi-day trek combining ancient ruins, mountain scenery and a rewarding journey at altitude.

There’s something transformative about standing on a summit, breathless and sweat-soaked, gasing out over ridgelines and valleys below. It’s not just the view that takes your breath away—it’s the emotional clarity that comes from the climb itself. At Chasing Summits , we know first-hand how mountains do more than just challenge the body; they awaken the mind and strengthen the soul. Physical challenges—particularly those faced in the great outdoors—have a powerful way of building emotional intelligence. The Mountain as a Mirror When you're on a tough ascent—say up Scafell Pike , England’s highest peak, or navigating the awe-inspiring route to Snowdon via Crib Goch —your true self shows up. Fatigue strips away the layers. Every step forces you to face your limits, your thoughts, your inner dialogue. There’s no signal, no distraction—just you, your team, and the trail. This intensity encourages emotional awareness . You learn to notice how fear, frustration, and doubt creep in. More importantly, you learn to manage them. You become familiar with your internal landscape just as much as the physical one surrounding you. This is emotional intelligence in action - recognising what you feel, understanding why, and managing your response to keep moving forward. Resilience and Regulation Climbing isn’t easy. Neither is life. But mountains teach us resilience like nothing else. A day trek in the Lake District , for instance, can be unpredictable—weather can turn, paths can vanish, and plans can shift. It’s in these moments that emotional regulation becomes crucial. You learn to breathe through the panic, to make calm decisions, and to re-centre yourself under pressure. These are the very same skills that help us handle stress in everyday life—at work, in relationships, and in our own mental health battles. Empathy and Team Spirit One of the most beautiful aspects of expedition life is the people you meet along the way. Whether you're on a private guided hike with us or joining one of our open group adventures , you’re not climbing alone. Mountains create a shared struggle, a collective experience that binds strangers together. Encouraging someone who's ready to give up, or accepting support when you're the one struggling, naturally fosters empathy. You develop patience, compassion, and the ability to read the emotional needs of others. These are key pillars of emotional intelligence, and they flourish in the raw, honest environment of the trail. Mindfulness in Motion For many of us, including our founder Nic, the mountains offer peace. The mind goes quiet. The noise of modern life fades away and all that remains is the rhythmic crunch of boots on rock and the steady beat of your heart. It’s a form of mindfulness—present, grounded, and connected. Take our Ben Nevis Challenge , for instance. As the UK’s highest mountain, it requires focus, grit, and respect. But it also gives you a chance to reconnect with yourself in a way few experiences can. You leave the peak changed—stronger, calmer, more self-aware. More Than a Climb At Chasing Summits, we don’t just guide you up a mountain—we guide you into a deeper connection with yourself. Whether it’s a short day hike or a more demanding expedition like the Welsh 3000s Challenge , every route is an opportunity to build confidence, self-awareness, and emotional strength. The next time you find yourself craving clarity or feeling overwhelmed by life’s chaos, consider heading to the hills. Your body will feel the burn, yes—but your mind and heart will thank you for it.  Ready to start your journey within? Explore our guided hikes and challenges at www.chasingsummits.co.uk and discover how the outdoors can reshape your inner world—one summit at a time.