Step-ups are great for warming up and for all round conditioning. Ordinary steps are better than the stepping machine for conditioning the muscles that control balance and movement over rough ground. The workout can be varied by carrying weights (dumbbells or loaded backpack).
The stepping machine can be used for driving your body into a slightly breathless zone, lifting your work-rate and your pulse.
Walking on the treadmill. Use walking action for stretching the hamstrings and calves. The treadmill is good for interval work. Push up your pulse rate close to maximum for a short period, then rest. Repeat at least 10 times.
The power circuit is good for all round conditioning - use as many different machines as possible, on relatively low loads. Remember to do step-ups between each machine exercise. As your fitness increases, increase the number of exercises not the weight.
Remember that your most important muscles for hiking are the lower stomach, the lower back, the pelvic muscles and the upper leg. Place extra emphasis on exercises like the abdominal crunch, the rowing machine, leg curls, and leg raises, shoulder presses, lower back exercises and sit-ups with bent knees.
Enjoy the workout!!
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