3 ways to get in shape for hiking season
Ready or not, hiking season is here! Summer won’t last more than a few months, so it’s time to get outside and hike.
Do you need a bit of extra help to get you to the top? Here are three tips that might inspire and enable you to get in shape for hiking season.
Note: Always consult a physician before beginning a new exercise routine.
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1. Train your legs
There’s a reason gym rats head to the mountains for leg day. Your glutes, calves, hamstrings and quads will be burning after a long day hiking. Get prepped by doing squats, lunges, knee raises and deadlifts. To add a cardio component, take to the Stairmaster.
If you’re willing to invest in a trainer, they can teach you personalized movements that will work best for your body. Another great option is a leg-specific fitness classes, or kickboxing studios like 9Round. If you really don’t want to go to the gym, there are a ton of fantastic workout videos online.
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2. Set a SMART goal
New Years resolutions may be hard to stick to, but if you seriously set a goal, you’ll feel more motivated to meet it. To keep yourself accountable, tell a few friends. Even better, ask them to join you!
Remember to keep your goal SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Timely.
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3. Practise positive self-talk
It might sound silly, but sometimes the biggest challenge to tackling a mountain is mental, not physical. Stop saying you’re out of shape and can’t do this. Respect your limits but keep your thoughts positive. Believe in yourself. You can do it!
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PS. Want to get started right now?
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- STOP Worrying About Whether Your Body Will Fail You on Your Next Adventure
Interested?
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