The 2013 National Scout Jamboree is closer than we think. And as construction of the site at the Summit Bechtel Reserve continues to progress, there are two things to remember – expect fun and be prepared for the adventure.

[pullquote]“We will have skateboarding for the first time ever, as well as mountain biking, rock climbing and rappelling, and a more involved BMX experience.” — Larry Pritchard, 2013 jamboree director[/pullquote]

Mentally, but most importantly, physically, every Scout should spend the next two years preparing himself or herself for one of the most high-adventure, action-packed trips of a lifetime.

Because of the level of physical health and fitness that is needed at the Summit, and to keep everyone safe, the Boy Scouts of America has developed a set of guidelines. If you have a body mass index (BMI) of over 40, then you will not be allowed to attend the Summit. If you have a BMI of between 32 to 40, then you may be allowed, but you will have to consult with a physician.

The Adventure

With activities like hiking up to the top of mountain peaks, whitewater rafting down some of the wildest rapids in the world, biking through rough and rugged terrain, zip lining through the trees and traveling several miles each day without the use of any type of motorized vehicle, fitness at the Summit is not only important, it is essential.

“We will have skateboarding for the first time ever, as well as mountain biking, rock climbing and a more involved BMX experience,” says Larry Pritchard, the 2013 jamboree director. “And for some, whitewater rafting or kayaking,”

And not only are the activities more intense, the land itself is more intense, as well. With a mean elevation of 2,500 feet above sea level, there is an elevation change of 200 feet from the Summit Center to the Staff Village. Also, with no transportation on site, this means that you could be walking up to 3 miles to reach your destination.

“The site here at the Summit is physically very different than sites from our previous jamborees,” says Pritchard. “We want to make sure our folks are prepared for those changes. While you don’t have to travel as far to get from point A to point B as you did at Fort A.P. Hill, you may have to travel up and down steep grades and will need to be prepared for that.”

To get ready for the Summit, get off of the couch and get outdoors. Run. Play. Swim. Hike. Bike. Do whatever it takes to get ready, because the Summit is going to be a physical challenge.

“It’s important to follow us on Facebook, so that you can see as we get closer, the activities that we will be doing,” Pritchard adds. “To get prepared, you should get outdoors and out of the house. You need to be hiking, biking, swimming and getting out as much as possible.”

Time is winding down, but it’s never too early to prepare for the Summit.  What kind of activities are you doing to get in shape for the 2013 National Scout Jamboree?