Preparing for a hike involves building endurance and strength in your legs, core, and upper body. Here are some exercises that can help prepare you for a hike:
1. Walking or hiking on inclines: This is the most specific exercise for hiking. Walking uphill will help build endurance and strength in your legs and core.
2. Cardiovascular exercise: Hiking can be demanding on your cardiovascular system, so it’s important to engage in activities that elevate your heart rate, such as running, cycling, or swimming.
3. Leg exercises: Squats, lunges, and calf raises can help strengthen the muscles in your legs, which will be important for hiking uphill and downhill.
4. Core exercises: Planks, sit-ups, and other core exercises can help build the abdominal and back muscles that are used for balance and stability during a hike.
5. Upper body exercises: Push-ups, pull-ups, and other upper body exercises can help build strength in your arms, shoulders, and back, which will be important for carrying a backpack and using trekking poles.
Remember to start gradually and slowly increase the intensity and duration of your workouts over time to avoid injury.
By: Waweru Ngigi