Climb every mountain... or so the song goes, but it's only fun if you are feeling fit!
Hiking isn’t a race, but a little preparation before your multi-day tour can make all the difference.
Getting started a few weeks or months ahead can help ensure you’re not sore after the first day, which would make the rest of your adventure anything but enjoyable!
It’s not just about fitness either – balance is key, especially for those trickier sections of the trail.
Why balance matters more as we age
As we get older, our sense of balance tends to fade, making it super important to strengthen it before you set off on uneven terrain. A steady step means you’ll feel more confident and safe out there, which makes the whole experience so much better.
And let’s not forget about your muscles and ligaments – they’ll need to be ready for the challenge too. Are your legs up for 3-6 hours of walking a day? Even carrying a daypack can add to the strain, so it’s good to be prepared.
Ideally, you’d go for a hike once a week, covering some elevation while carrying a daypack to get your body used to it. But let’s be real – most of us don’t have hiking terrain right on our doorstep, or the spare time to do that regularly.
What about joining a gym? It works for some, but if you’ve ever signed up and then found your willpower disappeared after a few weeks, you’re not alone!
So here’s the easiest way to get ready for your multi-day hike...
Simple steps to build up strength
Start by adding a bit of weight to your regular walks. If you’re already going for an hour-long stroll near home, why not throw on your hiking boots to break them in? Pop a few essentials in a daypack – like your rain jacket, a warm sweater, a litre of water, and your camera. If it’s near lunchtime, pack a snack and make a little adventure out of it!
Consistency is key – aim for those 10,000 steps a day (or even 20,000 if you’re feeling ambitious!) and make it part of your routine. Walk before work, during lunch breaks, or whenever it fits into your day. The more regular, the better.
Test your gear – rain or shine!
If the weather’s looking less than ideal, don’t cancel your walk – just grab your wet-weather gear and get out there. It’s a perfect time to test whether your hiking gear holds up against wind, rain, or even a storm!
If you’re up for a faster pace, jogging is a great option. Twice a week, try running around 5 km – it’ll not only build endurance but also strengthen your legs and feet.
And for a gentler option, Nordic walking is fantastic – it’s popular in Europe and perfect for training your whole body while being kind to your joints. Look it up online and give it a go!
By the time your Sidetracks Women multi-day hike begins, you’ll already be feeling stronger and fitter. The best part? Each day on the tour, you’ll get even better, and by the last day, you’ll be wishing you’d felt this fit right from the start!
And that's the perfect time to sign up up for your next Sidetracks Women tour to stay in shape and keep the adventure going!
Remember it's all about "use it or lose it" - now is the perfect time to start using it!
PS: Not sure which hike is right for you? Contact us – we’d love to help you pick the perfect adventure that matches your fitness level!
PPS: Ready to start today? Whether it’s walking, jogging, or Nordic walking, the best time to begin is now!
Kommentare