Well that’s the million dollar question isn’t it? It’s also the only question no one can answer until you’ve stood on the summit, and then gotten back to basecamp safe and sound, and in one piece.

But have a read through the following statements/questions, answer honestly and you should have a better idea whether your capable or not.

Many of Vertical Frontiers clients have climbed and trained with us prior to an Expedition, and indeed the preparation for a mountain like Ama Dablam might last two or three seasons before the trip.

If something below doesn’t make sense, then get in touch for more personal advice.

  • I have experienced moderate to high altitude previously, and have climbed to around 4500m in the alps as a minimum.
  • My technical ability on scrambling terrain is very good, I am steady on my feet even after a long day out on the hill.
  • Likewise, my experience with crampons is high and on exposed terrain I know how to use them effectively to keep myself safe.  
  • I have rock climbed outdoors and seconded around Hard severe.
  • I have done some winter Ice climbing and seconded around Scottish grade III or WI3.
  • Exposed ground does not unduly phase me.
  • My rope work is good enough to second someone rock climbing, and I have abseiled in mountainous terrain. Abseiling steep ground does not phase me, and I can confidently keep myself safe even when very fatigued.
  • My general fitness is good, and my mountain, “keep going all day” fitness is high. I won’t need to try and get fit during the approach walk, because I’m already prepared.
  • I can walk and climb for ten hours with a moderately heavy rucksack (15kg with all the climbing gear included)
  • The following day would be hard, but I could pick up that same rucksack, grit my teeth, and go again.
  • I have done some long days in the hills, of at least 12 hours. And haven’t needed six months to recover afterwards.
  • In the month prior to the expedition my physical training would probably amount to ten – fifteen hours a week, minimum, of high quality work.
  • I enjoy the physical challenge of mountaineering, as well as the rewards.
  • I am mentally very determined, and my physical training reflects that.
  • Operating as part of a small team appeals, and being part of a safe expedition for all is important.
  • The safety of myself, my fellow team members and our climbing Sherpa’s are more important than the summit, and I would sacrifice my summit if I thought anyone was in danger.