Hiking News: Going Hiking Every Few Weeks Isn't Enough!

Although many of us have hectic schedules and find it hard to find the time to fit a rigorous hike into our diaries, it seems we should all be making more effort to go hiking according to a top German Professor from the Sport Medicine Institute at Germany's University of Munster. He has recently claimed that hiking "every few weeks just isn't enough". His recommendation? "At least two walks a week lasting between 30 and 45 minutes each are needed to show an improvement in health".

So, what's the best way to do this then? We all know we should exercise for 30 minutes every day, which many simply do not have the time to do, so it is intriguing to hear research stating that we should actually be hiking twice a week. For those that have 9-5 jobs it just isn't going to be that simple, but it certainly gives us something to think about. Perhaps if we were all honest with ourselves, we probably don't exercise as much as we should and it's about time we made more of an effort. Of course, time is always of the essence and it makes it difficult for busy people to try and fit hiking into a hectic schedule.

A recent study by Germany's Hiking Association revealed that almost half of people over 16 in Germany went trekking but it was only the over 60s that did this several times each month. Perhaps even more interesting would be a study on the UK or US, to see if our trekking populations could match that. Many would probably doubt it.

When it comes down to it, if you love the outdoors and you like exercising, there is certainly no reason why you can't make the time to go hiking and keep active. If you start when you are younger then it will also reduce health risks later on in life. Perhaps there are some people that still view hiking as something only the older generations do, but if we can all get into the mind and spirit of hiking for enjoyment as well as fitness, then perhaps more young people would embrace the activity.

If you're an active hiker, we think you deserve a pat on the back. If not, well, simply read this article about the health benefits of hiking to see exactly how important it is: http://www.mamashealth.com/hike

How to Choose Hiking Gifts for Friends

There are thousands of hiking fans all over the world and finding hiking gifts that they will enjoy is something that should be born in mind around Christmas or birthdays. Obviously, hiking boots are the main piece of kit that any keen hiker will have a need for but there are various other hiking gifts that may well tick all of the right boxes as well.

Most pieces of hiking equipment are fairly inexpensive and will last for a considerable amount of time so it is easy to find hiking gifts to match any price range. It's not just hiking boots that will put a smile on a keen hiker's face - various other gifts are likely to be just as well received.

Great Hiking Gift Ideas 
There are many considerations that can be taken into account when it comes to purchasing hiking gifts and most won't cost you and arm and a leg. Hiking equipment comes in many different forms but it often pays to think outside of the box when it comes to picking hiking gifts. Just some ideas to think about include:

Hiking Magazine Subscription - Getting a subscription to a hiking magazine won't cost massive amounts of money and is a great idea for a hiking gift. For anyone who enjoys this pursuit, getting monthly literature about the activity will be extremely rewarding so a hiking magazine subscription is definitely a gift that keeps on giving.

Hiking Apparatus - There is essentially no-end to the amount of hiking equipment which hits the market and heading online will fill you in with the sorts of products which are likely to make good hiking gifts. Things like roll out tables are bits of hiking kit that are incredibly useful but are the type of thing people forget they need - which makes them an ideal hiking gift idea.

Hiking boots, such as the Altitude NT WP Enviro, are ideal for all your light hiking trails and trips and will also make the perfect hiking gift for those who are wanting to push the boat out a little.

Going on Hiking Trips with Man's Best Friend

Hiking trips are enjoyed by thousands of walkers each year across the UK and more and more are deciding to get their four legged friends in on the action - and bringing their dogs along. It is important to make sure that the hiking trail that you choose is suitable for dogs and that you have all the hiking equipment that you require before you set off.

Dogs absolutely love being in the wilderness alongside their masters so it makes perfect sense to take them on hiking trips with you. There are so many sights, sounds and smells that can be enjoyed by you and your hairy companion but making sure that you've got all the hiking boots, clothing and equipment that you'll need in the boot of your car is a must - whether you are just going on a day hike or are planning a few days in the wilderness.

Getting your Dog Ready for a Hike 
Whilst some dogs will take to hiking like a duck to water, excuse the inaccurate animal analogy, it is important that you properly prepare your pet for hiking if it's something that they are not used to. Needless to say, if your dog is of a lazy disposition, you shouldn't endeavour to take him on an extensive hiking trip straight away - dogs are like humans and will need physical conditioning in preparation for hiking trips.

So, start off by taking your four legged friend on a few smaller hikes before working your way up to the more difficult terrains that you want to tackle together. Generally speaking, if you plan on taking your dog on repeated hiking trips and trails, it is probably a good idea to discuss their health with your vet just to make sure that they will be up to facing the rigours associated with hiking activities and trips.

Bringing your dog with you on a hiking adventure will really add to the enjoyment considerably because dogs are in their element in the wilderness and their sense of adventure is likely to open new doors that you may not have otherwise witnessed during your hiking trip.

Of course, dogs won't require any specific hiking equipment but it is imperative that you kit yourself out with a good pair of hiking boots - if only to be able to keep up with your pet pooch! Many hikers swear by the quality of the Hi-Tec Rainer Event hiking boots.