Fitness Guide for Rubicon 3 Crew

Welcome to your essential guide for understanding the fitness and agility requirements necessary to embark on a Rubicon 3 sailing trip. Our adventures are designed for individuals who possess a moderate level of fitness and agility, as the dynamic nature of sailing and the physical tasks involved demand a certain degree of physical readiness. This should be within the capabilities of anyone who is moderately active on a daily basis.

You need decent core strength and stability

Maintaining balance and stability on a constantly moving deck requires a robust core. Crew members should be able to comfortably engage their core for repeated periods.

You’ll need average upper body strength

The ability to manage sails, ropes, and equipment demands average upper body strength. This includes lifting and carrying gear, pulling lines with significant resistance, and performing tasks that involve pushing, pulling, and lifting above shoulder height. Not everyone has to be able to complete every task and again if you are reasonably active you will be fine.

You’ll need lower body strength and agility

Normal leg strength and agility are crucial for safely moving around the boat, especially in rough conditions. This includes the ability to stand, crouch, and move safely and efficiently around the vessel, maintaining balance and adapting to the boat’s movements.

Accept that sailing requires some endurance and stamina

Sailing can involve long periods of physical activity. Crew members should have the stamina to perform various tasks and duties for extended periods, regardless of weather conditions. This particularly the case if you are joining an offshore trip or Masterclass.

Flexibility and mobility are important

Being able to move freely and comfortably in confined spaces and climb onto bunk beds is essential. Crew members should possess decent flexibility and mobility to bend, stretch, and reach in various directions without discomfort.

Mental Resilience

Though not a physical attribute, mental resilience is absolutely key for coping with the demands of expedition sailing and probably more so than any physical attribute. Especially if you are sailing offshore, things are going to happen that will test you. There may be cold, wet, long days. Dinner may fall on the floor. The hot water may be out of action temporarily. There may be no wind or there may be too much wind. This is part of being at sea and sailing. If you want gentle, easy sailing and full support, Sunsail and Moorings are great. If you want to sail off the beaten track and have a true adventure, then we cannot stress the need for mental resilience enough.

Can you pass our fitness test?

To ensure you are ready for the physical demands of a Rubicon 3 sailing trip, we recommend assessing your ability to complete the exercises shown on our fitness test graphic. If you can complete these exercises, you are likely in good shape to join our sailing adventures. This assessment is a practical way to gauge your physical readiness and ensure your experience is both enjoyable and safe.