ActiveHiking & WalkingHikers must try these 5 bodyweight exercises to improve leg strengthThe whole workout takes less than 10 minutesWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.

ActiveHiking & WalkingHikers must try these 5 bodyweight exercises to improve leg strengthThe whole workout takes less than 10 minutesWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.

The whole workout takes less than 10 minutes

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Attractive woman wearing knit hat practicing squats during winter

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Most of us don’t like to think about hiking as a form of exercise. After all, hiking is all about being outside and one with nature, right? We agree, but we also think preparing your body for hiking has more benefits than drawbacks. Your legs definitely need to be in top shape if you want to roam the countryside for hours/days on end, and these five bodyweight exercises can help you build strength in your lower body with ease.

We appreciate that modern hiking gear, including thebest hiking bootsandbest walking shoes, might make it feel like you don’t need to physically prepare for outdoor escapades. But having strong legs go beyond ensuring you won’t get injured on the trail. According toHealthline, leg workouts can stimulate hormones, improve core strength and balance, and can even promote weight loss.

Even with the warmup, you should be over and done with the whole workout in well under 10 minutes! Now try these six essentialhiking exercises to avoid joint pain. We also have a6-minute no-equipment leg workoutfor bigger calves and stronger quads (thigh muscles). Finally, here’s anotherknee-friendly home workout to build leg muscles, just for good measure.

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We check over 250 million products every day for the best prices

We check over 250 million products every day for the best prices

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