FitSugar

Take a Hike and Take These 10 Things

FitSugar — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 06:00:34 -0700

Hiking is not only a fun way to spend time with friends and family in the Summer, but you'll burn 355 calories each hour. Before you head out on the trail, you'll need some gear, so check out these hiking essentials.

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Get in Gear: Must Have Gadget for Hiking

FitSugar — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 04:00:00 -0700

Seriously, sometimes I think I am MacGyver. Especially when I am out in the woods on a hike but the truth is that while I love the occasional hike in the woods (or along the coastline) I am no outdoorsy guru.

That being said, I like to feel prepared at all times, especially when playing in the great outdoors. Many day hikes may not require the AdventurePlus ($20.00), but it never hurts to be prepared, now does it? This one little gadget includes a compass, a mirror, a magnifying glass, a whistle, a thermometer, a flashlight and a tiny little compartment to keep things (like matches) dry. Buy it online from Highgear.com.

Hiking will be even more fun now that you're prepared to take on any situation so you can concentrate on getting that heart rate going. Now all you need is a good trail to explore -- Check out this listing of free trails.

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What a Fit Girl Does Before a Big Event: Hike!

FitSugar — Sun, 25 Feb 2007 07:30:00 -0800

Today, the stars may be looking for a way to unwind prior to a big event like, you've guessed it, The Oscars!

Hiking is simply walking on a path -- it could be a an easy winding trail or a steep treacherous one, either way it's hiking. Hiking can be a great way to escape your regular gym routine as well as a great way of clearing your mind before a major event. I'm guessing that may be what Drew Barrymore is getting ready to do here.

Like Drew, make sure you're prepared, because nothing could kill a red carpet event like getting lost in the woods without water. For hiking tips and more pics of Drew getting ready for a hike, read more

Wear comfortable shoes and socks.
Be careful when hiking up and down hills. For more stability, use a hiking stick or hiking poles.
Take your time, hiking is not a race.
Bring your own water and a snack or two in a light backpack (a health bar would be perfect).
Dress in layers, the higher you hike, the colder it gets.
Follow the trail. It is amazing how similar the woods can look after a few minutes of hiking.

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Fit's Tip: One thing that Drew is doing that I don't recommend doing while hiking (or EVER): Smoking. Not a good idea for so many reasons (forest fires, cancer, etc), so just don't do it.

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Cardio Machine: Summit Trainer

FitSugar — Thu, 25 Jan 2007 10:00:00 -0800

If you've ever been hiking, you know that it works your entire body - all your muscles, joints and most importantly, your heart. You can hike up a mountain in the winter, but most people choose not to because it's so darn cold and windy.

Recently at the gym, I saw a new machine and just HAD to try it. It's called the Summit Trainer.

I guess it could be compared to a StairMaster or an Arc Trainer. But it's more like hiking than anything else.

You move your feet like you're stepping or climbing up a hill and you can either keep your hands on the front handles, or for more intensity, you can move the side "arms" as well for a total body workout. It also has a built-in digital heart rate monitor located conveniently on the handles.

You can choose a workout that will automatically adjust the resistance level to keep you in your target heart rate zone. Or you can do interval training workouts. You can also set personal goals and the Summit Trainer will give you a workout to meet them.

Not only is it great for your heart and muscles, but it'll get you ready for warmer weather when you can do the real hike thing.

Want to see more pictures? Then read more

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