Advancing skills

[Theolonius]

So here's another post asking you guys about the skills/attributes in the game, like strength and dexterity (the only two I think) I figured out that you level/advance them by fighting, but being very weak I lose quite a bit. Now I do know that losing advances you faster, but there's no fun in losing constantly. Is there way to get your skills up to a decent level so you can survive longer instead getting knocked constantly?

[Barteaux]

The different weapon skills are naturally improved when using corresponding weapon.

When it comes to Dexterity, it will inprove while using katanas or sabres when fighting.
Strength will also improve with the use of heavier weapons in general.

The easiest way to improve strength though, is to have you char fill up a backpack in additon to picking up a team mate, and carry it all (what should be a heavy load) back and forth. Either around you camp or between your outpost and the nearest town.

Athletics can be improved by sprinting with a light load.

[Fulgenzio]

You can also improve Strength by walking around with a really heavy load.