Get in Shape

• 1). Begin training at least two months in advance.
  
  
• 2). Go for long training hikes - at least 8 miles, preferably 15 miles or more - at least once a week. (The round-trip hike to the top of Half Dome is about 17 miles.)
  
  
• 3). Hike in the mountains at an altitude above 3,000 feet, if possible.
  
  
• 4). Climb stairs whenever you can. Occasionally, take two steps at a time. (Part of the trail to Half Dome is on irregular stone staircases.)
  
  
• 5). Do pull-ups and other upper-body exercises. (The last 700 yards of the Half Dome trail has cable handrails that require lots of arm strength.)
  
  
• 6). Work on your grip by squeezing tennis balls. You'll need a good grip to pull yourself along the cable handrails.