Pregnancy and Fitness
Body Shape
Stretching/Flexibility
Injuries/Rehab
Sports & Activities
Strengthening and Toning
Cardiovascular
Get a personal diet plan
Hiking
Hiking, which is a combination of walking, climbing, weight training and aerobics, is like working out in your own personal outdoor health club.  |
| cardio |  |
| | |
| flexibility | |
| | |
| strength | |
| | |
| weight loss | |
| | |
| injury potential | |
| | |
| schedule flexibility | |
| | |
| ratings key and credits | |
| | |
the workout
Hiking can be anything from walking a couple of miles of day to climbing for a week in the mountains. Hiking for beginners basically consists of walking with a large backpack to build strength and endurance. The more hiking, weight training and cardiovascular exercise you do, the more you’ll increase your strength and be able to hike for longer without being tired.
upside
The great thing about hiking is that it is not a competition or a race. You can control your pace and pause to enjoy the views as you please. Hiking also offers a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and is a great way to whip your heart, lungs and muscles into shape while taking in the sights. downside
Hiking has a greater risk of injury than walking because of variable and challenging terrain. You also risk insect bites, cuts, bruises and other run-ins with nature. You may have to travel to find a suitable hiking trail.
the pros say
Tips for beginning hikers:
- Start a regular walking and weight training program a few months before attempting a hike.
- Go on shorter hikes that last only an hour or two, then gradually build up to full-day and multiday hikes.
- Never hike alone, bring a map, and always leave your itinerary with someone.
- Always pack a snack, plenty of water and a first aid kit.
- Wear hiking boots, which are more substantial and have deeper grooves in the soles than walking trainers. Make sure that you break in your boots first. There’s nothing worse than hiking with blisters!
requirements
Gear: variable. Day hikes require hiking boots, proper clothing and a small backpack filled with a snack, water and a first aid kit. Longer trips may require a larger pack, tent, camping gear, food and safety gear. Always bring a map.
Instruction/Facilities: enjoy the vastness and freedom of the great outdoors.
printer friendly
send to a friend
Delicious
Digg
reddit
Facebook
StumbleUpon
Horoscopes| Message Boards | Quizzes | Newsletters | Join
iVillage Ltd is a UK company registered in England & Wales (3837269) at 80-110 New Oxford Street, London WC1 1HB
