How to Get Better at Hiking Before You Hit the Trail
For those not used to physical exertion, hiking can be challenging. Inexperienced hikers may find themselves sore and out of breath more quickly than anticipated due to the extreme heat this summer. An exhausted hiker may be at risk for dehydration, slipping, or falling — and the last thing you want is to get stranded on the mountain and not be able to climb back down. Even if you’re only planning on easy or moderately difficult hikes, or going hiking when it’s cooler in the fall, you can still benefit from training for hiking. You’ll move better up and down the mountain, plus your muscles will feel less exhausted afterward. Whether you have a big hike coming up or you plan on hitting the mountains to enjoy the fall foliage, we’ve included the best ways to train for hiking. Throughout this article, we'll outline a comprehensive guide to help you become a better hiker, ensuring a more enjoyable and safe trail experience. 1. Physical Conditioning Before setting foot on the trail, it&