Get your hiking muscles in shape

Hiking requires muscle strength, balance, endurance, and cardiovascular fitness, so it’s important to get in shape before attempting the activity. Training should include a daily walking regimen on level ground, as well as muscle stretching and strengthening. Extra emphasis should be placed on muscles in the legs and core, which are heavily taxed when hiking. When it’s time to hit the trail, it’s best to hike for short periods on less rocky terrain, and gradually increase the distance and difficulty of subsequent treks.