I Really Enjoy The Great Outdoors, And Would Like To Start Hiking. But I’m Kind Of Put Off By Its Requirements. How Can I Start Out On The Right Foot?

The headlines scream from half the magazines on the supermarket rack: "WALK YOUR WAY TO FITNESS," "HIKE FOR BETTER HEALTH." Buy the boots, glance at a map, and you're doing 10 miles within a week, right? Well, yes and no ...
Hiking should be as easy as putting one foot in front of the other outdoors, but it can be intimidating to a couch potato. Since trail walking demands more from your body than pavement or even the treadmill at the gym, start an exercise regime to strengthen your calves, shins, stomach, back and buttocks. Lower-body muscles push you up the hill, but it takes more strength to brake on the downhill.
Buy sturdy trainers for moderate hikes and boots with ankle support for longer ones. Start with dirt trail near population centers, then branch out into rural routes. A map with topographical denotations of elevation is helpful. Find a companion with which to hike at the beginning, for moral support and until you feel more confident being alone in the field.

Add Comment

Report