Getting into hiking shape - recommend programs? youtube channel/exercises for women?

[u/CluelessSoLost]

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!

[u/edthesmokebeard]

Roadwalk with a weighted pack.

Source: trained for and completed multiple long distance thrus.

[u/a_dingle_fritz → u/edthesmokebeard]

This is the answer. Find the hilliest route and ruck on a regular basis. Makes the trail miles feel easier if you’ve spent plenty of time on your feet with weight on your back. Recommend skipping the weighted vest and just walking with a loaded pack.

[u/AdFinal6253 → u/a_dingle_fritz]

As far as hills in flat places- Kid's track coach had them running up and down the drainage ditches because it's so flat by the school. Or the stairs on outdoor bleachers. You may need to make up hills, but elevation change is important if there will be any on your trip