Hiking

Walking over terrain and elevation, usually with a pack; longer and harder than a flat walk.

Hiking, illustrated

How to do it

Setup

Trail shoes or boots, water, a pack that fits snugly.

Steps

  1. Walk the terrain at a pace the climb allows.
  2. Shorten the steps uphill; soften the knees downhill.
  3. Log the time; elevation is the hidden work.

Common mistakes

Racing the uphills: the summit cares about rhythm, not bursts. Braking stiff-legged downhill: bent knees save the joints. No water for «just a short one»: terrain lies; carry it.

Breathing

Steady; let the climbs raise it honestly.