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The 'I Feel Like Being Healthier' Thread!
Avec:
Depends really, are you planning to go alone?
nobo:
this is a pretty funny book about an out of shape guy that tries to hike the trail
Avec:
If you intend to hike for an extrended period of time, exercise shouldn't be a question of what, but when.
Katherine:
Cardio is a given. I would also suggest building up some good leg strength (which can be as simple as using your own body weight - squats, lunges, etc) and hiking varied terrain to strengthen your other leg muscles. That will help prevent ankle injuries.
I really hope you get to do this. I have been to Baxter State Park in Maine where the trail starts and always wanted to hike Katahdin. It is absolutely gorgeous there.
Caspian:
--- Quote from: Jeans on 22 Mar 2009, 15:08 ---So, uh, guys. I want to hike the Appalachian trail at some point. I am thinking in two to four years, depending on whether or not I go for a BA in literature. At this point it's little more than an idea, but that is where things start, right? I imagine some program to get in better shape would be a good thing, although being in top shape to begin with probably isn't necessary - I'll be walking in rough terrain for five to seven months, after all.
Do any of you trek a lot, and have advice as to what kind of exercises I should be doing? Gear suggestions?
(I'd take it as a kindness if y'all didn't wail on how I'll never be able to pull it off, like everyone else I have talked about this to has done you pessimistic bastards)
--- End quote ---
Do it. I've done a bunch of smaller hikes (a few two, three week jaunts), and for my first 300km hike I wasn't remotely fit. The first few days will be absolute hell, but if you're a persistent sort it shouldn't be too hard. One kind of cool thing is the isolation; no need to try to suck it up if you're struggling. Just pant away and stagger around for a bit!
Having said that, I've always been pretty strong, so a 40kg pack didn't bother me too much. if you're a lightweight, bulking up might be a good idea. So, pro tips:
Some core strength would be a good idea. Sit ups, Push ups. You'll struggle with the pack regardless, but some extra muscle won't hurt.
I don't think you need to be absolutely fit, but if you've never done any hiking then a few short trips would be a good idea.
Make sure you have a good tent and sleeping bag (obvious, but people can be stupid)..
Be prepared to spend a lot more money on gear then you originally thought.
I love the isolation of camping/hiking in the wilderness, just make sure you don't mind it. Again, doing a few short trips might be a good way to decide if you can go all feral for a few months.
The best exercise for hiking would be hiking.
Also: bears! Fuck! Seriously, I'm really glad we don't have large land carnivores in australia.
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