Pre training is essential to reaching the summit of Elbrus. It's hard going!

Unless you have walked at anywhere near the height of Elbrus you can't tell how the altitude will effect you. It pays to do a couple of higher altitude walks before you go but if you live in the UK this is pretty much out of the question. Plenty of walking in your local hills and mountains will get you walking fit.

General exercise and trips to the gym are also a good idea but don't over do it. It pays to rest the week before you leave to avoid any last minute injuries. Personally I took plenty of trips into the Brecon beacons and Snowdonia and tryed to walk for a minimum of 6-8 hours at a time. Walking with a reasonable full rucksack will get you used to carrying a little weight. You have to carry at least 2 litres of water, dinner, waterproofs and excess clothing on Elbrus so it helps. Try to add in as much hill climbing as you can into your walks because Elbrus is mostly up.

The terrain on Elbrus can vary from soft fresh snow to hard ice. And lower down in the valleys it can be muddy and rocky. Pre training in similar conditions can really prepare you.