Recruiting for the 2026 ROCK STEPPERS Mountain Club
We are starting a club based on trail running, aiming to take on long races and long-distance mountain climbing. The club will run for one year, starting in January 2026.
This is the concept of this club.
table of contents
The challenges and values this club aims for
Take on long trails and long-distance mountain traverses . Run faster through mountains such as the Japanese Alps, Yatsugatake, and Omine Okugake Trail.
In the fall, the team will take on a major challenge and set clear goals.
Ultra-distance trail running race Challenge to
Gain the ability to complete long races of over 100km.
Training intensity and experience that would be difficult to achieve solo . A pace that cannot be maintained alone, a distance that cannot be achieved alone. An environment where you can train hard will surely produce strength.
Practical knowledge from experienced people <br>Learn directly from knowledge, techniques and strategies honed in the field that you can't get from books or the internet.
A Clear Roadmap <br>This isn't just a high-intensity workout. We implement a step-by-step training program that will guide you to your goals.
Two teams
We have adopted a two-team system to allow for effective practice according to physical strength levels.
Advanced Team
We aim to take on challenges that require both speed and endurance, such as races with a strong mountain element, long-distance traverses that connect multiple mountains, and long trails.
*Running ability: 10km on flat ground in under 50 minutes + 4 hours of mountain climbing with a cumulative 1000mBasic Team
You will gain the stamina to keep moving for long periods of time or the ability to move quickly, such as completing a trail running race of 50km or more, shortening the time spent hiking on mountain climbs, or hiking long distances in fastpacking style.
*Running ability: 5km on flat ground in about 30 minutes + 3 hours of running up a 500m mountaincoach
Shingo Yamane
ROCK STEPPERS Owner
He has experience in 100-mile races and challenging mountain hikes.
As shop staff and runners, they offer advice and support on gear, training, and more.
Coach: Tsutomu Iwasaki
He has been trail running for about 33 years and has participated in over 300 races.
He has experience completing ultra-long distance races such as the Trans Japan Alps Race (415km), Ultra Gobi Race (400km, the first Japanese to complete the race), and Great Himal Race (1700km).
Holds a mountaineering guide qualification from the Japan Mountain Guides Association.
He is an instructor who can systematically teach "techniques for moving safely for long periods of time" and "know-how for optimizing supplies and equipment gained from experience on overseas expeditions."
Monthly practice session
Each month, participants will have practical training based on a clear theme. By working together with friends to complete tough training that would be difficult to do alone, participants will gradually acquire the strength necessary for ultra-trails and long-distance mountain climbing.
Examples of practice themes
- Building legs that can keep climbing
- Improved downhill stability and speed
- Practice replenishing supplies during long-term activities
- Sharpen your safety skills on the night trail
- Build your traverse strength by running long distances for two consecutive days
- Map reading and safety management practice
- High altitude endurance training simulating 3000m
Each team will set their own distance and intensity, and will hone their physical strength and skills to directly address their target challenge.
Annual Program
They will gradually improve their skills throughout the year, and in the autumn they will plan a big club-wide challenge.
The details of the challenge are decided through consultation based on the team's situation and goals. From a variety of options, such as traversing the entire Yatsugatake Mountains, the Southern Alps, or the Omine Okugake Trail, a feasible and attractive goal is chosen.
*Depending on the scale of the challenge, additional dates may be added, such as a two-day practice session (to be discussed separately within the team).*For field trips and special programs, additional travel expenses and other costs will be required. More may be added.
January to March: Building the foundation
Establishing basic winter fitness, form, and nutrition habits. Ikoma Mountains, Rokko Mountains, a tour around Kyoto, etc.
April to June: Strengthening practical skills
Practical mountain long distance + gear selection optimization Daitō, Hira Mountains, Suzuka Mountains, Omine Mountains, etc.
July to September: High-intensity training
In high-stress fields including practical trails, nighttime activities, and leg training at high altitudes
October to December: Final adjustments and the big challenge
Coordination and implementation for the Autumn Challenge
December: Review
Feedback session to visualize annual growth
Annual schedule
1/10 (Sat)
2/14 (Sat)
March 28th (Sat)
April 11th (Sat)
5/9 (Sat)
June 13th (Sat)
July 25th (Sat)
August 11th (Tuesday, Mountain Day)
9/5 (Sat)
October 3-4 (Autumn Challenge)
11/28 (Sat)
12/12 (Sat)
*The event will proceed rain or shine, but will be cancelled if the weather is severe. The schedule is subject to change.
Other Activities and Support
Night practice once a week (Thursdays, optional participation)
This is an open practice session that anyone can participate in, but we will have a special menu for club members.
Technical Programs (held irregularly)
In addition to fueling strategies, nutritional management, gear selection and training theory, we will also hold practical courses such as:
- Safety management (risk assessment) course
- First aid work (hypothermia, sprains, dehydration, etc.)
- Practical work on long trail planning
Support for individual race challenges
In addition to the club's major challenges, instructors and support staff will also provide advice on individual trail running races such as 100-mile and 100-km races, from the preparation stage to pacing and fuel strategies on the day.
Online Community
Members can receive advice from instructors and support staff, and can freely exchange information with each other.
Equipment Support
We provide equipment and gear consultation and purchasing support in-store.
- Seasonal equipment checklist
- Annual gear maintenance and replacement points
- Personal gear diagnosis tailored to your riding style
Club Member Benefits
- 10% off in-store products (some exclusions apply)
- Club-exclusive merchandise sales
We provide year-round support to help you choose the equipment you need for long-distance trails.
Other events and volunteering
We plan to organize activities other than trail running for those who wish to do so, as well as volunteering, workshops for club members, and camping events.
Application requirements
・Annual lump sum payment: 75,600 yen (10% discount)
・Monthly payment: Credit card payment
Registration fee: 5,000 yen (for club T-shirt production)
As a result of the selection process, we may ask you to join a team different from your preference or ask you not to participate.