Another Great Fitness Hike

 On Friday, I engaged in another awesome fitness hike using my 12-lb weight vest and trekking poles. Two hours at Pocahontas State Park in Virginia and 1458 calories later, I completed yet another of 20 to 30 planned power hikes for the spring and summer. Both the weight vest and trekking poles increase immediate heart rate as well lung and cardiovascular endurance. While I didn't see any hawks this time, just being out in the outdoors was enough.

My pace started off at around 3.8 mph and increased to around 4.2 mph toward the end of the hike. In spite of the knee surgeries (2005/2006), I was still able to do a fast walk/run in a cross-country skiing fashion that further increased my heart rate - max heart rate achieved was 164 - the average was around 132.

Not only does power hiking provide me a sense of personal accomplishment, at 51 (52 this August) I feel fortunate to have found a functional venue outside of the gym that provides me with personal challenge and inspiration. What is YOUR venue for functional movement? May I recommend movement on your feet outdoors. Whether walking, power walking or running, the important thing is, that you be intentional about getting and MOVING!