4 Ways To Get In Shape For Spring Hiking

Spring is right around the corner, and with this comes the chance to do some amazing hiking trips. However, it can be hard to keep up if you are out of breath and constantly having to stop. This is why we've compiled a list of 4 tips to get in shape, because you deserve to enjoy the hike.

Walk More

This may seem like an obvious one, but walking more will make hiking easier. Try to get out and go for a walk around your neighborhood or at a beach at least a few times a week. Just be sure to walk quickly so that you're putting in some work and driving up your heart rate.

One way to increase the effectiveness of your walks is to incorporate uphill and downhill sections if possible. You are bound to come across some hills when hiking, so practicing this beforehand is a great way to get in shape.

Do More Cardio Exercises

You will need some good stamina when hiking, and cardio is a great way to give you the healthy lungs and heart that are required for this. It's recommended that you practice cardio 5 days a week for about 30-60 minutes a day.

Just putting in any work is better than nothing, but consistency is important to getting in shape. If you don't feel like you have time for this kind of cardio routine, consider using a jump rope as your source of cardio. You can jump rope for 10 minutes and get about the same benefit as running at 6 mph for 30 minutes, so it's definitely a good alternative.

Take The Stairs

This is an easy one that won't take up too much of your time. It will help strengthen the muscles in your legs that are necessary for hiking, especially for going up and down hills.

Though just taking the stairs once or twice a day probably won't cut it for being in hiking shape, it definitely won't hurt and could help more than you realize.

Eat Better Food

If you have a big hike coming up, focusing on what you eat can make a big impact on how the hike goes. It's important to eat vegetables and fruits with lots of nutrients, monounsaturated fats, and lean proteins. Eating these will keep your muscles strong and keep your energy levels up.

Staying away from foods high in trans fats and polyunsaturated fats as much as possible will help. These foods can cause you to feel sluggish and weak, which won't be good on the trail.