One thing I am passionate about is hiking. Simply stated I love to hike and would do it every day if I could.
One reason I enjoy hiking is it can offer different intensities that you can set to your needs. You can keep your hike mellow and go for a casual nature walk. Or you can go on a major hiking adventure in the mountains. My favorite type of hiking is to go on a hilly trail for about four to five miles. My favorite trails are a dirt path that are used by bicyclists, hikers, and equestrian.
The reason I like this length and type of hike is because it takes at least an hour to do, helping me get in a desired amount of exercise. I also like how hills add variation to my hike. For example, I can jog up and down a hill and then power hike to the next hill. Or I can go a moderate pace and then power hike up a hill and take it easy down the hill. Doing this adds extra intensity to my workout instead of just casually hiking which really helps to make hiking a cardio workout.
I also like hiking because almost anyone can do it with me. I sometimes go with my husband or parents. I also take friends who have kids that can walk with us or push in a jogger stroller. Hiking is definitely a great activity for all ages.
If you haven’t gone hiking before, try finding a friend or family member who likes to go hiking. Although it is fun to go venture out on your own, it is definitely safer to go with someone who knows the trails.
Hiking you can do most seasons, depending where you live. I live in California where our seasons are pretty mellow and I can hike year round. Despite this I actually prefer hiking in the fall, winter and spring when temperatures are a bit cooler.
Find a friend who likes to hit and hit the trails together. Remember to have a map (or GPS if possible), water, and wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
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