Are you new to hiking? Some people think that just because they are what they may call in shape that they can handle any sort of outdoor activity. Lifting weights, treadmill time, and aerobics and so on can all help with your hiking abilities but more than likely will not have much to do with your success on the trail. Hiking is a different animal than sitting in a gym working out. Let’s say that you are looking in great shape and spend a ton of time working out with weights. But how is your cardio? Can you also spend tons of time outdoors in the heat or cold? Being in shape is important to successfully and safely hiking, but getting into shape for hiking means taking smaller hikes at first until you get used to it. A football player may end up being in great condition, but if he were to play soccer or baseball, he will require other muscles to be used. It does not mean if the player struggles coping with the new sports that he was not in good condition, it just means his body needs time to adjust to his new workouts and sport.