Get Out of Here and Get Out There
Suddenly it is spring, with summer not too far off. Many of us enjoy hiking this time of year - we enjoy the fresh air, warmth on our skin, majestic BC scenery and the camaraderie of our co-hikers. Our bodies respond well to challenge - even thriving with the stimulus and do our best if we also make realistic challenges.
Plan Smart:
Progress Slowly - start with shorter, flatter hikes in May and progress to longer, steeper hikes in August.
Fuel Properly - consider your energy needs for the size of your physical challenge and treat your body right with enough sleep, water, and fuel (pre/during/post hike).
Prepare Accordingly - carry a comfortable back pack or waist pack for water, foods, etc. Wear comfortable clothing and appropriate shoes.
Condition Your Body - you need to be agile and have a good sense of your body moving over the path, rocks, roots etc. This requires core stability, hip mobility, and proprioception (postion sense)
Consider getting your body assessed for optimal movement so you can get out there and enjoy the benefits of hiking which challenges your core, balance, and lower body mechanics.
Start off easy by doing a hike like Stanley Park or Burnaby Mountain to train for elevation gain. After you get some hiking experience you may want to progress to something more challenging like the short and sweet Grouse Grind or a longer hike such as Lions Binkert Trail.
The following link is a great resource for trails in the Lower Mainland: