With 2024 in full swing, outdoor experts reveal how soft hiking is the fitness trend you need to follow this year.
The trend allows people to enjoy the outdoors and exercise without the pressure of hitting high altitudes or milestone distances.
What is soft hiking and what do you need to get into it?
I spoke to Ben Conroy, Author and Outdoor Enthusiast at GO Outdoors who tells me, “The idea of ‘soft’ activities has taken over social media and is about leaning into what feels good – taking time for yourself and nourishing your body and soul. Getting outdoors and exercising is the perfect way to boost endorphins.
“Soft hiking is simply enjoying time in nature and moving your body at a leisurely pace. You do not need to climb high mountains or ascend steep hills.
Intentional walking at any level has a range of benefits, including reducing your risk of heart disease by over 40%.”
With this in mind, we have offered our top tips on getting into soft hiking:
- Choose a hiking destination
Using apps such as Ordnance Survey can help you choose your route, as it allows you to choose the intensity of your walking route.
It is recommended that you start on easy routes, and build up to more intense walks if you want to do so.
Remember, one of the main points of soft hiking is that any intensity is classed as a hike.
Sticking to pre-chosen routes also decreases the chances of getting lost, and means you can share your planned routes with friends before setting off.
- Round up a group of friends
Not only does hiking have physical benefits, but it is also the perfect time to catch up with friends and socialise.
Hiking with friends also means that should anything go wrong, multiple people can help.
- Wear the correct clothing
No matter the intensity of the hike, it is important to stay comfortable and wear the correct clothing.
It is best to wear breathable, anti-chafe clothing as well as sturdy walking boots or shoes. Wearing sturdy shoes will help you to avoid any falls or injuries on uneven terrain.
- Remember snacks and water
Ensuring that you are properly fueled and hydrated is essential for any exercise, and soft hiking is no different.
High-energy foods such as dates, oat bars and flapjacks are the perfect snack.
Finding the perfect place to rest and enjoy the surroundings of nature can be one of the best parts of a soft hike!
- Pack light and ensure your backpack fits correctly
Whilst it is important to take essentials such as suncream and first aid kits, you must remember that you will have to carry around whatever you pack.
Ensuring that your backpack fits correctly will help you to distribute the weight of your items.
A correctly fitted backpack should carry 70%-80% of the weight on your hips, with the rest on the shoulders.
The weight should be held close to your back and remain there without excessive movement when you move up and down, or side to side.
Experts at GO Outdoors are available to help with backpack fittings in-store.
- Have fun!
Soft hiking is the perfect way for anyone to get into fitness. It is free to do, has no time restraint and no pressure to reach certain goals. The most important thing to do is to enjoy yourself!
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Here are 5 ways to Improve Your Walk After 50 💪🙌
1. Focus on Posture
Maintaining good posture is crucial as you age. Stand tall with your shoulders back, head aligned with your spine, and engage your core muscles. This will not only improve your walk but also reduce strain on your back and joints.
2. Strengthen Your Muscles
Incorporate strength training exercises into your routine to keep your leg and core muscles strong. Squats, leg raises, and calf raises can all help improve your walking efficiency and stability.
3. Stretch Regularly
Flexibility plays a key role in maintaining a healthy gait. Dedicate time to stretching exercises, especially for your legs and lower back, to enhance range of motion and prevent stiffness.
4. Wear Supportive Footwear
Choose shoes that offer proper support and cushioning. Avoid high heels or unsupportive flats, as they can cause discomfort and impact your walking style negatively. Opt for footwear that is designed for walking or athletic activities.
5. Practice Balance Exercises
Balance tends to decline with age, increasing the risk of falls. Incorporate balance exercises such as standing on one leg or using a balance board to enhance stability and coordination while walking.
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