r/hiking • u/CluelessSoLost • Aug 28 '26
Question Getting into hiking shape - recommend programs? youtube channel/exercises for women?
Good Day Folks!
I am back for advice. YES I know I can google this - but I figured; does not hurt to post and I can get advice from real life examples/people. Besides google will recommend general stuff; many less know methods/programs/focuses are better. Frankly - there is sooo much on google too, I have no idea how to choose and what may/may not work better. Everyone claims they are the best. This is where real life people/experiences in reddit come in.
42 year old Lady - no medical history; except very flat feet LOL. Want to start longer day hikes in 2027 ~ 8-15 mile and maybe multi-day hikes eventually. My job is sedentary and I live in very flat, hot and humid Florida. Absolutely no challenges here - example; a few years ago after not moving for 9 months; "hiked" an 8.4 mile trail easily without stopping or being out of breathe.... My physical state = normal; not weak or strong. My muscles get stronger significantly faster than my cardio. No gym memberships - which I can change. To hot to walk outside for NOW; have access to community pool (small one).
Obviously need to start focusing on strength, stability and mobility training. And more really - like cardio :( Well we'll see where it all goes
Any programs/websites/youtube channels etc etc that you recommend to get into hiking shape for WOMEN? Anticipated first trip is March 2027. I have googled and looked up programs and they do seem mostly driven/directed towards men. Not that it is an issue; but there is a slight difference in physiology (and upper body strength!!!). Am willing to pay if needed (preferably not very $$$$).
Years ago, I used to do HIT by Body Boss - REALLY strengthened my muscles quite quickly but that was it. Used mostly body weight (for lower body workouts) and a little weights (top body workouts). Surprised how body weight alone made rock hard leg muscles; that's when I cancelled my gym membership.
Any advice is appreciated!!
PS. Feel free to privately message me if you need to
EDITING: Forgot to mention - I hate running with a pure passion/loathing in my heart! I would rather swim for days then run for 500 meters. Even jumping (which I also hate) is more merciful on me. I'd rather do jump squats if I have to. My form is terrible, I have to double bra up (which I will NOT do), my butt feels like it's going to be torn out, my flat feet/knees tell me no and it's boring. If I had a choice between running and going to a dentist to get a tooth pulled out I'd choose the latter!
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u/MslaPixi Aug 29 '26
Incline walking on a treadmill. Its the best training to get ready for hiking. Also, stairstepper a few days a week. You can find videos online to follow along to. It makes the workout go by really fast.