5 Tips for Beginner Hikers

5 Tips, for Beginner Hikers.
Hiking is not only great exercise, it can
also improve your mood and overall health. .
MyFitnessPal spoke with Wesley Trimble,
program outreach and communications manager for
the American Hiking Society, for some beginner tips.
This advice
will help you
hit the trails
this summer:.
1. Set a smart goal.
Hiking trails fall under 3 levels of difficulty: , easy, intermediate and difficult. .
Start with easier hikes and
work your way up to harder trails. .
2. Strength training can help.
Navigating steep terrain requires
strong legs and a strong core. .
Squates, deadlifts,
kettlebell drills and
pushups all help build
muscles that are
necessary for more
difficult trails. .
3. Planning is key.
Either take a photo or print
out a copy of the trail map.
Make note of where you parked,
how long you expect the hike to take
and where you plan on turning around. .
4. Bring water and snacks.
Even for short hikes,
be sure to bring some
nonperishable snacks
like trail mix, energy
bars or jerky. .
Most importantly, bring water,
at least half a liter for every
hour you plan to hike.
5. Pack these
other essentials.
The American Hiking Society
recommends carrying:, a compass, flashlight, whistle, first-aid kit,
Swiss army knife, sunscreen and sunglasses. .
It's time to hit those trails.