Hiking can be an excellent way to burn calories and stay in shape and has the added benefit of being performed in a peaceful and beautiful environment. On average, you will burn around 350 calories an hour while hiking. While that may not seem like a lot, adding a weighted backpack to the equation can significantly intensify your workout and increase the amount of calories burned per hour just by adding a few items to your backpack.
Step 1
Select items you wish to bring with you on your hike. Books, water bottles or jugs and even free or plate weights can add an extra workout burn to your hike. Be sure to include water on your hike as you will definitely be sweating.
Step 2
Adjust the weight inside of your backpack so it is evenly distributed. Situate the heavier items inside your pack so that they rest against your back just below the lower third of the backpack.
Step 3
Wrap your weights in towels if you are using weights so that they don't cause you any unnecessary discomfort.
Step 4
Begin hiking as normal. Do not plan on going as far as you normally would without a weighted backpack as this will be a significantly harder hike.
Step 5
Stick to trails that lead uphill or require you to physically exert yourself harder than a level nature trail. The incline and terrain combined with the added weight of your backpack will greatly increase the amount of calories burned.
Step 6
Drink water regularly to keep yourself cool and hydrated. Drinking water will also help remove some of the weight from your backpack if it starts to become a struggle.
Things You'll Need
- Backpack
- Weights or weighted items
- Comfortable shoes
- Water
- Towels
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