You've made the commitment to climb one of the world's greatest mountains

 

Summiting one of the world's greatest peaks is one of life's most exhilarating experiences. It is an accomplishment that can never be taken away from you.  There are many things that cannot be controlled in the mountains, but your physical and mental preparation is not one of them. Your fitness and attitude are completely within your control, and your commitment to working with experienced coaches as you prepare for your next climb will put you in the best position to be successful.

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You’ve made the decision to climb a challenging mountain. The next step is to ensure that you are ready, to commit the necessary time to building the mental and physical strength to enjoy your climb and safely return from the summit.

The good news is that there are established processes for building the physical strength and endurance that you will need to summit any mountain, from Mount Rainier to K2.  Physical preparation is only one component of a successful climb, though. Many people overlook the importance of mental strength as well as a key component of the effective summit and return.

 

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ALPINE ATHLETICS coaches dedicated mountaineers of all levels who are focused and committed to being as prepared as possible for their next mountaineering objective.  Climbing a big peak is not a test for which you can cram in a few days. It takes months for most people to build the level of fitness necessary to carry a heavy pack at least 1000 feet (300 m) per hour for many hours on consecutive days at altitude.  Only commitment and sacrifice before you reach the mountain will put you in the ideal position to be safe and successful.

I remember the excitement and confidence of standing on the summit of Mt. Rainier in 2009, I also remember the gratitude and thrill of becoming the second American woman to stand on the pinnacle of K2 in 2018.  During the years in between, I have learned a lot about myself and what it takes to proficiently climb the world's greatest mountains. I want to share my knowledge and experience with others who desire to do the same.

I’ve guided several of Lisa’s clients. They’re always prepared for Rainier and confident on the mountain.
— Brandt T., Mt. Rainier guide
Alpine Athletics has transformed my climbing fitness – my heart rate is down, I feel better, and I have endurance to spare – climbing, and the art of suffering, has never been more fun!
— Steve M.

MEET LISA THOMPSON

Lisa Thompson is a mountaineer who lives in Seattle and has climbed mountains all over the world.

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CLIMBING FOR A CAUSE

It's important for us as Alpine Athletes to give back to the mountain communities that have given us so much. Since 2023, Alpine Athletics has donated to a charity in the state or country in which each athlete has climbed.