Fitness Friday: Rich Froning’s 4 Nutrition Keys for Hunting

Presented by MTN OPS x MeatEater

When it comes to hunting, fueling your body is just as important as training it. Long days under load, steep climbs, and unpredictable conditions demand energy, strength, and recovery. That’s why smart nutrition is critical not only in the field but in the weeks leading up to it. What you eat, how you hydrate, and how your body responds to different fuel sources can make or break your performance when it counts.

MTN OPS Ambassador Rich Froning breaks down the high-level nutrition strategies hunters should focus on when preparing for the mountains. Simple, practical, and field-tested, these tips will help you fuel hard days, recover faster, and stay sharp in the backcountry.

Why Nutrition Is a Weapon in the Field

“You can’t outwork poor nutrition,” says Rich. “If you want to hunt harder, last longer, and still feel strong at the end of the week, you’ve got to test and dial in how you fuel.”

Here are the four core nutrition pillars Rich Froning emphasizes:

1. Protein

Protein is the building block for muscle repair, recovery, and sustained energy. In the mountains, where every day pushes your body, it’s essential.

“Look for clean, portable protein options, meat sticks, jerky, powders, stuff you can throw in a pack and rely on,” Rich explains.

Pro Tip: Include protein in every meal and snack to keep your muscles fueled and recovering while you hunt. Whole food sources should be your foundation but for added support, MTN OPS Magnum Protein delivers 23g of protein per serving. Magnum supports muscle building and recovery, helping you meet your daily protein goals. Rich’s go-to is his exclusive MTN OPS flavor, Peanut Butter Banana.

2. Fat & Carbs

Every hunter’s body runs differently. Some thrive on higher fat intake for long, steady energy. Others perform better with more carbohydrates for quick bursts and climbing power.


“You don’t want to find out on day three of a hunt that your fuel mix isn’t working,” says Rich. “Test it beforehand.”

How to Test:

• Do a yard project or workout, then fuel with carbs and see how you feel.
• Try a long, slow workout fueled with fats.
• Track how your body responds so you can dial it in before the season.

3. Hydration

Dehydration sneaks up quickly in the field. It impacts energy, focus, and endurance.
“Don’t just think about water, think about electrolytes,” Rich emphasizes. “You’ve got to replace what you’re sweating out.”

Pro Tip: Stay on top of hydration by mixing electrolytes with your water throughout the day. MTN OPS Hydrate is crafted with a unique blend of essential electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals, including 1000mg+ of electrolytes per serving, to sustain performance on long, high-output hunts or in the gym. Rich’s favorite flavor is his exclusive Sour Watermelon Hydrate.

4. Experiment Before You Hunt

The best nutrition plan is the one you’ve tested before hitting the trail. That means experimenting at home, during workouts, and on hikes so your body is already adapted.


“Your pack, boots, and rifle aren’t the only things to break in—your nutrition is too,” Rich says.

Watch on Instagram

See Rich break down his nutrition routine and how he stays fueled for long, high-output hunts.

Final Thoughts from Rich

“You don’t need a complicated diet to fuel hard days in the mountains,” says Froning. “It’s about keeping it simple: enough protein, the right balance of carbs and fats for you, and consistent hydration with electrolytes. Test it before season, and you’ll show up ready.”

With this straightforward approach, your nutrition becomes another tool in your pack—helping you go longer, recover faster, and stay strong no matter what the hunt demands.