Look for high-quality hiking boots at outdoor supply stores, boot stores, or by ordering them online. Wear the socks you plan to wear on your hikes when you try the boots on so you choose a pair that isn’t too tight. A good pair of hiking boots often take some time to be broken in so they’re really comfortable.

Fresh fruit such as apples or bananas are tasty, lightweight, and will provide a healthy supply of energy. Nuts are always a nice, tasty snack to have that will keep you going and stave off major hunger cravings.

Hiking is a rigorous physical activity, which means you need to stay hydrated in order to keep going and replace any fluids you lose in your sweat. Store your water somewhere like on the side of your backpack so you can reach it while you’re on the go.

Pack a waterproof shell for your backpack so you can cover all of your gear to protect it as well. Look for clothing designed for hiking at outdoor supply stores or by ordering them online.

Put your pack on before you go hiking to make sure it isn’t too heavy. If it is, take out any unnecessary items to make it more manageable.

You can also download weather apps to keep track of any storms heading your way. Popular hiking apps include Topo Maps and Peak Finder.

Trekking poles are great to use on rocky or uphill terrain. You can find trekking poles at outdoor supply stores or by ordering them online.

The hill can be paved and doesn’t need to be super steep. You’ll also build up your hiking muscles with regular trips up and down a hill.

Try to keep the same pace, even as you’re hiking in a zigzagging pattern. Be careful when you’re hiking up rocky terrain so you don’t step on a loose stone and slip.

Focus on your foot placement as well so you don’t slip. Smaller steps help keep your center of gravity over your feet so you’re not leaning forward.

Avoid burning yourself out by choosing the most difficult route possible, especially on long hikes. Cross country or terrain without trails are often more remote and are less likely to have people on them, so it’s important that you’re as safe as possible when you’re hiking them.

Adjust your backpack when you put it back on so it’s more comfortable. Take a sip of water and have a small snack to get your energy levels back up.

Look online for hiking trails in your area that you can check out. Many parks and hiking trails will indicate the difficulty of the trail. Start with the easier trails first and work your way up to the more difficult ones.

Some gyms have stair climber machines that you can use as well. [14] X Expert Source Katie PrendergastCertified Personal Trainer & Nutrition Coach Expert Interview. 21 February 2022. Try to take the stairs instead of an elevator or escalator any chance you get!

Even if you don’t plan to hike in the near future, keeping your conditioning up will make sure you’re always ready for a hike. [18] X Expert Source Katie PrendergastCertified Personal Trainer & Nutrition Coach Expert Interview. 21 February 2022. Running, cycling, swimming, skipping rope, and even machines like an elliptical trainer and rowing machines are all great examples of cardiovascular exercise. [19] X Expert Source Katie PrendergastCertified Personal Trainer & Nutrition Coach Expert Interview. 21 February 2022.

If you’re new to weight lifting, work with a trainer or an experienced partner to make sure you’re using good form and won’t injure yourself. Use weights that are appropriate for you. Trying to lift weights that are too heavy can cause you to injure yourself, which could keep you from hiking!

Stretching also helps release tightness in your muscles after a long hike or a challenging workout.