Hiking and Backpacking: Gear, Training, and Scenic Trails

Training for high-altitude hikes like Mt. Kilimanjaro requires targeted conditioning and the right specialized footwear. Discover the mental health benefits of forest bathing and learn how to manage swollen ankles and body aches after a long trail session.

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10 Hikes That Will Make You Fall in Love With Winter

Don’t let a little snow keep your hiking boots from treading the trails till springtime. Walking in the fresh air — even if said fresh air is freezing — has substantial health benefits, such as improving circulation, strengthening immunity, reducing the risk of depression and even keeping your memory sharp.

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Overview

16 Life-Changing Lessons Learned Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro

No one goes through a life-changing experience like climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro without coming home with stories to tell. When 18 women started out on their journey, they had no idea how their climb would impact them -- physically, mentally and emotionally.

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Overview

25 Dream Fitness Vacations

Sure, a lounge chair on a warm, tranquil beach has its allure, but fit people don’t often enjoy sitting still for an entire vacation. With that in mind, here's a list from around the globe of some of the best active vacation destinations.

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Couple lying in sleeping bags in forest with illuminated lantern, man pointing upwards

The Best Gear for All of Your Outdoor Adventures

Take a page from the Boy Scout handbook and always be prepared for your outdoor adventures. Whether you're hiking, backpacking, or engaging in other outdoor activities, it's essential to have the right gear and equipment. From headlamps and solar chargers to water filters and GPS watches, we've got you covered with our expert guide to outdoor essentials.

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Femal rock climer sitting with gear in back of SUV, portrait

Hard Vs. Soft Soles in Hiking Boots

The key difference between hiking boots at your local retailer is the soles. Although they may all feel similar, there are significant differences. The secret to hiking soles lies in the midsoles. Between the rubber bottom and the inside of the boot are layers of protection that vary based on your activity.

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Summit of Bald Mountain, Uinta Mountains, Utah, USA

What Are the Benefits & Disadvantages of Hiking?

As temperatures rise, many people retreat to mountain trails to escape the heat and enjoy time with nature. Hiking can be a challenging activity and requires a positive attitude and determined frame of mind. This form of exercise strengthens the muscles, improves heart health and boosts mood.

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What Causes Body Aches After Hiking

Delayed soreness from a hike is sometimes preventable. Nutritional supplements, stretching, proper footwear and trekking poles are touted as having preventive powers when it comes to the aches and pains of a hike, especially one with prolonged periods of descent.

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young woman hiker legs on mountain peak cliff

Swollen Ankles After Hiking

Hiking is typically a healthy activity that burns roughly 223 calories in 30 minutes if you weigh 155 pounds. But like any other form of exercise, it’s not 100 percent risk-free. You can injure your ankle in a variety of ways, causing it to swell. Hiking may also exacerbate an underlying ankle problem.

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Woman on mountain peak

How to Train for High Altitude Hiking

At higher altitudes, the air is thinner, there is less available oxygen and it becomes more difficult to breathe. There are serious risks involved with high-altitude hiking, including altitude sickness, acute mountain syndrome and pulmonary edema, all of which can result in death.

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Couples backpacking in woods

The Calories Burned Per Hour in Hiking

Hiking is a way to lose weight and get in shape. Whether you take daily walks in the park or go on weekend trips to the mountains, you will be burning calories and gaining muscle.

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Hiking boots

The Best Boots for Lower Back Problems

When you walk, your feet are your body's shock absorbers. You should look for a shoe that matches your walking style and the shape of your feet. Check the wear on shoes you already have. If they are worn primarily at the balls of the feet or on the inside rim, you need extra support for your arches in your shoes.

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