Adventure Trips

The physical challenge scale is meant to provide insight into the level of physical exertion you can expect on your trip. And provide ideas to prepare prior to arrival. The designation does not provide insight into recommended experience level, inherent risks on the trip, pre-trip meetings or emotional challenges you may face, such as a fear of heights. 

This is our lowest level of physical exertion while on a trip. Examples include short hikes of up to 1-2 miles with a light day backpack, leisurely paddling a canoe for two hours, or lifting a maximum of 20 pounds. Getting ready for a Level 1 Program: stretching and normal walking to class. Consider taking the stairs instead of the elevator.

We recommend participants maintain or begin a semi-consistent exercise routine prior to participating in these trips. Examples of expected effort might be hikes of 2-3 miles with a day backpack, paddling a canoe for 3-4 hours, or lifting 30 lbs. Getting ready for a Level 2 Program: 15 minutes of light jogging, elliptical or other cardio workout, 2-3 times per week. Consider mixing in one of OU’s Group Fitness classes like Yoga or Cardio Dance. 

We recommend that participants already have a base of fitness training and continue or increase training to 3-4 times per week. You should not be intimidated by running for 10 minutes without stopping; many participants will experience some physical challenge with this trip. Examples of expected effort might be hiking 4-6 miles with a 30 lb. backpack, paddling a canoe or kayak for 4 or more hours, being able to lift 40 lbs.

Getting ready for a Level 3 Program: 20-30 minutes of running, swimming, elliptical or other cardio workout 3-4 days per week. Consider mixing in one of OU’s Group Fitness classes like Yoga, Indoor Cycling, or Cardio Dance. 

We recommend that participants already have a solid base of fitness training and continue or increase training to 5-6 times per week. Considered a rigorous trip; you should be comfortable with running for 20 minutes without stopping. Examples of expected effort might be hiking 6-8 miles with a 35lb backpack, paddling a canoe or kayak for 6 or more hours over multiple days, or being able to lift 40 lbs. Getting ready for a Level 4 Program: 30 minutes of running, swimming, interval training, resistance training or other up-tempo cardio workout, 5-6 days per week. Consider mixing in one of OU’s Group Fitness classes like Yoga, Cardio Dance, Boxing, or Indoor Cycling. 

We recommend that participants already have an advanced base of fitness training and continue or increase training to 5-6 times per week. This is a physically demanding trip; you should be comfortable with running for 30 minutes without stopping. Examples of expected effort might be 8-10 miles on steep, uneven terrain with a 35lb backpack on, paddling a kayak or canoe for eight or more hours per day over multiple days. Getting ready for a Level 5 Program: 30 minutes of running, swimming, interval training, resistance training or other up-tempo cardio workout, 5-6 days per week. Consider mixing in one of OU’s Group Fitness classes like Boxing, Indoor Cycling or F45 Training. You could also consider Personal Training through Ohio University’s Well-Being and Fitness programs!

Cancellations made outside of 21 days (3 weeks) from trip departure will be fully refunded without additional documentation.

Cancellations made within 8-21 days (1-3 weeks) from trip departure will be fully refunded with approved documentation. Cancellations that cannot provide approved documentation will be partially refunded.

Cancellations made within 7 days (1 week) from trip departure will be partially refunded with approved documentation. Cancellations that cannot provide approved documentation will not be refunded.