Holiday Hiking - Tell those unwanted pounds to take a hike! - The weather is cooler, the leaves are changing and with all the beautiful scenery there are breathtaking hiking trails waiting to be discovered. Fall is a great time to lace up your hiking boots and get trekking. Not only will you get your body moving to help shed off (or ward off) the holiday weight gain, but it will also give your mind the chance to unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature. Hiking can burn between 350-600 calories an hour depending on the hills involved and any weight you may be carrying on your back. At this rate, adding an enjoyable hike three times a week to your routine can help you drop one pound every two weeks. Hiking is great for building muscle and toning your hamstrings, quads, glutes, and calves. Your cardio and endurance will improve as you push yourself through the windy path, and your core will get its fair share of work from the uneven surfaces. You can even get your arms in on the action by using light weight hiking poles. All in all, hiking is a great total body workout to condition your body and mind. Before you head out on your first adventure, make sure to pack a few necessary items to ensure a successful trip. Make sure to wear comfortable and supportive shoes (preferably hiking boots). A new pair on a first hike may leave you with painful blisters; so wear them around the house for a few days before breaking them in on the trail. Loose fitting clothing that wicks away your sweat is the best attire, and don’t forget to protect your skin with sun block. Depending on where you are hiking, you may need to spray a little bug repellent on your skin as well; especially if you plan to stroll by a stream. Always bring lots of water and continue to sip as you go. Pack a few Bora Bora bars in your bag to keep your energy up along the way. The nutrient dense combination of dried fruits, nuts and seeds will keep you going strong. My personal favorite is the Almond Sunflower. (Check out my Personality Article this month to see what Bora Bora Bar you are) If the trail winds you through forest or unknown territory, a compass or GPS system is always a safe bet. Okay, now you are ready to hit the trail. Start slowly at a comfortable pace, if the weather is cold your muscles probably are too. You will know you’re warmed up when you can feel your heart rate elevated, and you have a broken a slight sweat. After five to ten minutes of walking, stop along the trail for a light stretch. This will help to loosen up your muscles to prevent any injury along the way. Hiking terrain is rarely smooth; therefore your ankles should be prepared for the rocky road ahead. Do a few heal raises, and then move your ankles around in a circular motion one at a time. Once you have got your momentum make sure to pay attention to your footwork to avoid any loose rocks or slippery surfaces. Before you know it you will be hooked on hiking. So take advantage of the weather this month and … I mean it in the nicest way possible when I say, go take a hike!
