Most people who haven't hiked much are worried about meeting wild animals in the wilderness. In reality, one of the biggest dangers they face are self-inflicted injuries to the knees, ankles and feet! This exercise program is designed to help you build and maintain the muscles that will protect those precious joints and bones during hiking and backpacking.

Hiker and Backpacker Workout!

This will be a fun event for all levels of fitness; safety tips will be dispensed, and appropriate modifications of the exercises will be shown. We’ll warm up, work the legs for about 45 minutes, and then cool down. We’ll even throw in several minutes of abs/core work, so you can tighten your backpack’s hipbelt comfortably.

Be sure to bring water and sweat removal tool of your choice. A yoga or exercise mat is also highly recommended. Cross-training shoes (as opposed to running shoes) are best for this type of exercise. There are light dumbells available in the class--you can also bring resistance tubing for more challenge.

But wait, there's more:

This is not "bootcamp", there is no competition, and everyone listens to their own body as to what level of intensity they should practice on a given night. There are 16 leg strengthening and balance exercises, as well as about five abs/core exercises. The exercises change weekly. If you haven't exercised in awhile, you should watch each exercise carefully and use the provided modifications. Side effects may include toned legs, strengthened bones, better joint mobility, and a frisky outlook. As with any other exercise program, consult your doctor to see if Hiker/Backpacker Conditioning is right for you!