Strength and Core Exercises Every Great Walker Should Do

Strength and Core Exercises Every Great Walker Should Do Walking, often underestimated, is a fantastic full-body exercise. But to truly excel and prevent injuries, incorporating specific strength and core exercises into your routine is crucial. This article outlines essential exercises to elevate your walking performance and overall fitness. Why Strength Training for Walkers? Strength training […]

Trail Legs 101: Building Endurance for Multi-Day Hikes

Trail Legs 101: Building Endurance for Multi-Day Hikes Embarking on a multi-day hike is an incredible experience, offering stunning scenery, a deep connection with nature, and a rewarding sense of accomplishment. However, tackling such a feat requires more than just enthusiasm; it demands proper preparation, especially when it comes to your physical condition. Building “trail […]

How to Train for a Great Walk: 8-Week Fitness Plan for Hikers

8-Week Fitness Plan for Hikers: Train for Your Next Great Walk Embarking on a great walk or challenging hike requires more than just a sense of adventure; it demands physical preparedness. This 8-week fitness plan is designed to help you build the strength, endurance, and stability needed to conquer any trail. Whether you’re planning a […]

How to Join Our Great Walks NZ Group and Prepare for Next Season

How to Join Our Great Walks NZ Group and Prepare for Next Season By Rafick TL;DR: Join our Great Walks of New Zealand Meetup, RSVP to upcoming hikes, and start preparing now with training, gear checks, and practice walks. We’ll publish step-by-step guides on fitness, packing, hut vs camping, logistics, and safety. Next season we […]

What to Do the Day After a Great Walk

What to Do the Day After a Great Walk You’ve conquered the trail, soaked in the views, and pushed your limits. Now that your epic walk is behind you, it’s time to focus on recovery and make sure you’re ready for your next adventure. The day after a strenuous hike is crucial for allowing your […]

How to Prevent Blisters, Chafing, and Foot Pain on Hikes

Preventing Blisters, Chafing, and Foot Pain on Hikes Hiking is a fantastic way to experience nature, get exercise, and challenge yourself. However, discomfort can quickly ruin a hike. Blisters, chafing, and foot pain are common complaints, but with the right preparation and techniques, you can significantly reduce your chances of experiencing them and enjoy your […]

Stretching and Recovery Tips for Hikers

Stretching and Recovery Tips for Hikers Hiking is a fantastic way to explore the great outdoors, challenge yourself physically, and enjoy nature’s beauty. However, the repetitive motions, varied terrain, and added weight from your backpack can take a toll on your body. Incorporating proper stretching and recovery techniques into your hiking routine is crucial for […]

Balance and Footwork Tips for Uneven Trails

Mastering Balance and Footwork on Uneven Hiking Trails Hiking on uneven trails presents a unique set of challenges. Unlike walking on a smooth, paved surface, navigating varied terrain requires a heightened awareness of your body, improved balance, and precise footwork. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker tackling a challenging mountain trail or a beginner exploring local […]

How to Train for Multi-Day or High-Elevation Hikes

How to Train for Multi-Day or High-Elevation Hikes Embarking on a multi-day hike or a trek to high elevations is an incredible experience. However, it demands a higher level of physical and mental preparedness than your average day hike. Proper training is crucial not only for your enjoyment but also for your safety. This comprehensive […]

Uphill and Downhill Techniques Every Hiker Should Master

Uphill and Downhill Techniques Every Hiker Should Master Hiking is a fantastic way to experience the outdoors, challenge yourself physically, and enjoy breathtaking views. However, tackling steep inclines and declines can be tough on your body if you don’t use proper techniques. Mastering these uphill and downhill strategies will make your hikes safer, more efficient, […]

How to Build Hiking Endurance Without a Gym

How to Build Hiking Endurance Without a Gym Hiking is a fantastic way to explore the great outdoors, challenge yourself physically, and enjoy the beauty of nature. However, tackling more challenging trails requires a good level of endurance. But what if you don’t have access to a gym, or simply prefer to train outdoors? The […]

5 Common Gear Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

5 Common Gear Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them) Choosing the right gear can make or break your hiking experience. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a beginner hitting the trails for the first time, avoiding common gear mistakes is crucial for a safe and enjoyable adventure. Let’s explore five frequent errors hikers make and […]