@Sarah – Good point. I find the best alternative exercise that helps my hiking the most is running – even if it’s just on flat ground. It improves my cardio and increases my hiking speed more than any other exercises and I just do 5km (~ 30 minutes), so nothing super intense. I’ve also found HIIT (high intensity interval training) to be helpful and do videos that I find on Youtube.

@Shashank – Glad that you found it useful.

This is one of the best pieces of real information that comes from the travel and adventure experience. Travel products are basically intangible in nature so getting and sharing those experiences have more value than giving direct tips. We need to learn directly from the other’s experience and that’s why I would say that this is a great article and a valuable reading!

@Juan – While people are speaking from their experience, there are a LOT of tips in the article. For example: Heather – start off small and gradually build up, Leigh: Practice carrying a knapsack with a weight similar to what you’ll be carrying on the hike itself, Learn how to manage your energy with regular nutrition. Try a variety of energy bars before you leave, and MANY more.