Hiking is an outdoor activity that anyone can enjoy. You may be asking why do you need training for hiking? If you know how to prepare for hiking, you will enjoy it more. Also, if you are planning to go on long hikes, you should train your body and mind properly. Training can differ depending on how hard hikes you plan to go on. Keep reading to learn tips about hiking training!
Set A Training Schedule for Each Week
Plan a hiking training schedule week by week. On the first week, set a shorter distance to hike or walk. Typically, a good starting place is between 3 and 5 miles three days a week. On top of that, plan a cardio work out for 30 minutes two times a week. Don't forget to have 1-2 rest days to let your body recover. Training schedules should become more difficult week by week.
Exercises to Prepare for Hiking
To best prepare yourself for difficult hikes, it is important to train your body. Running, biking, and swimming are great workouts to help you learn to control your breathing and improve your fitness level. Strength training is also important because you use muscles on your legs, core, and back while hiking. Lifting weights helps you to build stronger muscles and improve balance. If you become tired of these exercises, Kickboxing, Yoga, and Pilates are also great options to prepare for hiking.
Control Your Breathing
As you start going up the hill, you may feel out of breath. In this time, try to take shorter breaths instead of taking big and deep breaths, so you get more oxygen. Remind yourself before you start going up to the hill, it will help you to breathe easier and reduce the number of stops on the way to the top.
Stay Hydrated
Because of sweating, you may feel very thirsty and want to drink a lot of water while hiking. However, you are not supposed to drink a lot of water at once. It can cause stomachaches and hyponatremia, which is a low sodium level in the blood. This can make you feel dizzy or nauseous. To avoid these problems, take small sips frequently to stay hydrated and to quench your thirst.
Take Big Steps
One way to train for hiking is changing the way you walk. It is better to take long strides when walking on flat areas. The shorter steps you take, the more energy you are using. Save your energy when walking up and down hills. It is hard to keep in mind, but try to get used to taking longer steps to conserve your energy when you need it most.
Bring the Right Gear
Getting the right gear is important for hiking. Your clothing and backpack should not weigh you down you on your way to the top of a mountain. When you are planning to go on a long hike, it is especially important that you pack ultra-light. For example, choose a light down jacket you can easily fold to help keep the backpack lighter. Be sure to bring only necessary items. The most important is choosing a comfortable, supportive pair of hiking shoes.
