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How The Hills' Whitney Port Keeps Her Long Legs Lean

FitSugar — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 03:30:00 -0800

We're always rooting for Lauren Conrad around here, and that's something we have in common with her level-headed best friend Whitney Port. Lauren will have to say goodbye to the easy-going blonde when Whitney leaves her pals on The Hills and moves to New York, where she'll star in the East Coast version of the show, The City. OK! magazine interviewed the up-and-coming fashion designer, and the answers give us a peek into what Whitney is all about.

When asked if she feels pressure to be thin in Hollywood, Whitney gives a relatable answer and says, "Yes and no. There are days that I care more than others. Then there are days where you step back and realize you can't always be so presentable."

To see what Whitney does to stay in shape,

Top Five US Hiking Trails

FitSugar — Sat, 11 Oct 2008 03:00:00 -0700

Fall is my favorite time of year to hike not only because the air is cooler so you don't have to worry about overheating or sweaty feet causing blisters, but also because of the gorgeous Fall foliage. According to TrailsTV.com, there are at least 10 trails in the US everyone should hike. Here are the highlights of five of their recommendations, listed in no particular order.

Glacier Gorge — Estes Park Colorado
The scenery, wildflowers, waterfalls, and alpine lakes are some of the most beautiful on the planet. It’s a photographer's dream.
The Bright Angel Trail — Grand Canyon, Arizona
If you've never been hiking in the Grand Canyon before, this is the place to start. The Bright Angel Trail is one of the two superhighways of the Grand Canyon, the other being the South Kaibab Trail. Both of these trails are well maintained and offer some spectacular views of the Canyon.
The Tahoe Rim Trail — Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada
The Tahoe Rim Trail is one of the world’s premier trails. It passes through two states (California and Nevada), six counties, one state park, three National Forests, and three wilderness areas.
Half Dome — Yosemite, California
This special spot was an inspiration to Ansel Adams because of its magnificent wildlife, dainty flowers, and towering trees.
Enchantment Traverse — Seattle, Washington
Considered the best hike in Washington, Enchantment offers a super diverse 30 miles. From easy wide flats to steep, rough areas, the hard fought permit is well worth the effort . . .

To check out the other five trails that make the top 10, check out TrailTV's full list.

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How to Hike With Bad Knees

FitSugar — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 13:00:00 -0700

The weather is starting to cool off, and now's the perfect time to go hiking. Not only will you avoid overheating when trekking it up the mountain, but you may even get to see hints of the leaves changing colors. Don't let bad knees, keep you off the trail. Here are some ideas that could help you and your knees to keep on hiking:

Have someone else carry your gear for you. Even though a little pack may not add a ton of extra weight, downward force on your knees can reach eight times the weight applied, so even five extra pounds can add 40 pounds of pressure to your knee joints. Ouch.
Get a pair of trekking poles. Two poles can take weight off your knees when climbing up steep terrain, but they're especially helpful for slowing down your steps when going downhill. They can decrease the amount of pressure on your knees and other joints by 25 percent.
Make sure your shoes offer exceptional cushioning so your joints aren't jarred with each step. That means hiking boots may not be the best choice, and you may want to wear your running sneaks instead. Adding insoles may also help — opt for a sturdy and rigid style instead of a squishy one.

For more helpful tips

You Asked: I Think I Have Lyme Disease

FitSugar — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 03:30:00 -0700

You're asking and I'm answering.

Dear Fit,
Last weekend after a night of camping, I was washing my hair and realized there was something stuck to my scalp. My husband took a look and found a small black tick embedded in my skin. He removed the whole thing, and aside from being completely freaked out, now I'm worried that I have Lyme disease. How do I know?
—Totally Ticked Off by a Tick

I'm sure many other readers can feel your pain in discovering a creepy crawly bug on your head, and I can understand your concern about Lyme disease, but don't panic yet. Just

Tips For Summer Hiking

FitSugar — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 14:30:00 -0700

If working out in a gym bores you to tears, you need to move your workout outside and hit a trail. Hiking is a great challenge for your heart and lower body, and you can do it with friends. If you've never been hiking in the Summer, here are some things to keep in mind.

Head out for your hike first thing in the morning since the temperature will be cooler. Hiking in full sun is difficult and could lead to heat exhaustion.
Bring along a backpack or lumbar pack and make sure you have tons of cold water. Pack an extra long-sleeve layer just in case. Snacks or sandwiches are a good idea, too, if you're planning on being out for a few hours or more.
Lube yourself up with sunscreen at least 30 minutes before you head out. Keep the bottle in a Ziploc bag in your pack, and reapply at least every two hours.
If the trail you're hiking is woodsy, pack some bug spray. Dealing with swarming mosquitoes while trekking through the woods is unbearable. Plus bug spray will also keep away ticks and spiders.

For more tips, just

Fittingly Mad: Dog Poo and Hiking Don't Mix

FitSugar — Sun, 13 Jul 2008 04:00:00 -0700

I planned a two hour family hike last weekend and everything was going well, until my little daughter stepped in dog poo. I was so thoroughly disgusted. Not by the smell, but by the irresponsible hikers that walked the trail before us. Not to be gross, but the doggy deposit was definitely fresh. As we were hiking up the mountain, I tried not to glare at every hiker we passed with a pooch.

I have no problem with dogs on the trail. We take Bonnie the dog with us all the time. I also carry a couple of bags in case she goes on the trail. I do, however, have a problem with a dog owner not picking up his or her dog's business especially when it is in the middle of the path. It's rude and disrespectful to the mountain and to the fellow hikers to not clean up a mess your pet leaves behind. I think it is a lot like littering (although it does eventually decompose, but like trash it doesn't belong on the trail). Do you have issues with this too? If you do, share them in the comments section below.

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Watch Out For: Ticks

FitSugar — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 03:00:00 -0700

Exercising in the woods is perfect in the Summer because the challenging terrain offers you a tough workout, but the trees provide shade to prevent overheating. When on the trail you need not only to watch out for poison ivy, but be on the lookout for ticks as well. These little buggers are small, but their bites have the ability to transmit diseases such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever, tularemia, Lyme disease, and other tick-borne illnesses. Blacklegged ticks (deer ticks), lone star ticks, and American dog ticks are all on the list of things you don't want touching your body.

To prevent ticks from landing on you and attaching to your skin, wear long sleeves, pants, and tall socks that cover your shins. Lighter colored clothing will make it easier to spot these dark bugs so you can flick them off. If it's too hot for all those clothes, then spray yourself with bug repellent. Also avoid walking in tall grassy areas. Be especially cautious in May, June, and July when ticks are most active. After an excursion in an area that's known for ticks, check yourself or have someone else check your skin — don't forget your armpits, scalp, and groin.

To find out what you should do if you see a tick stuck to your body

Protect Your Knees on the Downside

FitSugar — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 14:30:00 -0700

Hopefully you all are getting outside and going for some hikes. While hiking uphill feels great, works your backside, and increases your heart rate, walking down the other side can cause some serious knee pain. Walking, or even worse running, downhill can really stress your knee joints. Here are a few tips on how to protect your knees when headed down the other side of the incline.

Wake up your VMO: The VMO (vastis medialis oblique) is the muscle that keeps the knee cap tracking correctly. It is the inner part of your quads and soccer stars like Davids Beckham (he does have lovely legs – too bad the Galaxy uniform shorts are so long), have nicely developed VMOs. It is a lazy muscle so you have to wake up the VMO by giving it a little pat, smack, or flick. I know it sounds crazy, but it works.

Zigzag: Instead of walking straight down the incline, try going in a zigzag pattern. Making your own personal switch backs significantly decreases the pressure on your knee joints. Plus if you are wearing a pedometer, walking this way will probably double the amount of steps you take on your descent.

I have another tip so

How to Choose Summer Hiking Boots

FitSugar — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 11:00:00 -0700

If you own Winter hiking boots, you probably don't want to slip those on for a Summer hike. Those are meant to keep your feet warm and dry, and you may end up with sweaty feet, which will promote painful blisters. You also don't want to be wearing your cutesy Chaco sandals since they won't protect your feet from pebbles, sticks, ticks, or injuries if you tripped.

When choosing Summer hiking boots, look for:

A boot that covers your ankle to prevent you from getting a sprain — those rocks can be pretty wobbly, slippery, and uneven.
Rugged soles to prevent slippage. You also want them to be durable because if you're spending $100 to $200 on a pair, you want these boots to last.
Think about what kind of hiking you'll be doing. Boots made out of a combination of leather and material like these from Merrell and will be lighter, so they're great if you're expecting to carry a heavy pack. They're also easier to break in, which means they'll feel comfortable in a short amount of time. All-leather boots are more durable and they're also breathable and water resistant so your feet won't overheat and you'll be able to splash in a brook or mud.

To find out what else you should keep in mind just

Watch Out For: Poison Ivy

FitSugar — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 03:30:00 -0700

Unknowingly tromping through a patch of poison ivy can turn a pleasurable hike or run in the woods into a nightmare. If you touch the plant or something that has touched it (like your dog), then the oils can get on your skin and cause a nasty, itchy, blistery rash that lasts for up to three weeks.

If you know you've gotten into some poison ivy, you want to rinse with cold water within an hour of exposure. A hot shower is the worst idea because it will open your pores and let the oils in. If you wash the oils off immediately, hopefully you'll avoid a rash altogether. If you do develop the rash, don't pop the blisters. The liquid inside won't cause the rash to spread, but you could get an infection. Use a topical anti-itch cream to relieve your symptoms and speed up the healing process.

If you learned the rule, "Leaves of three, let it be," you can throw that out the window. While poison ivy does grow in clusters of three leaves, it can also grow up to nine leaves in a group. To hear what else you should you watch out for and see some photos of this treacherous plant

Into Hiking? Use Trekking Poles to Work Your Upper Body

FitSugar — Thu, 08 May 2008 14:30:00 -0700

Spring is my favorite time of year to hike. The temperature is just right and the trails are scurrying with activity and blooms.

If you're into hiking up mountains, you're going to be doing a lot of uphill and downhill climbing. This works your lower body like you wouldn't believe, which is great, but to make it more of a complete body workout and to save your knees on the descent, use a pair of trekking poles. I like these REI Ascent Shocklight Compact Trekking Poles ($75). Using trekking poles is a great way to take pressure off your leg muscles and joints, which can reduce your risk of injury. Once you hike with them, you'll never go without. If you're not a fan of these, you can check out other trekking poles here.

Fit's Tip: If you aren't ready to spring for these kinds of poles yet, but you own ski poles, try those out the next time you hike. If you love them, then you'll know trekking poles are worth it. I like trekking poles because they're lightweight and most are telescopic, meaning they breakdown for easy storage in your backpack. Go ahead and turn yourself into a quadraped.

Spring Sports: Burn It Up Outside

FitSugar — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 05:30:00 -0700

It finally feels like Spring has arrived and we can all finally exercise outside. Spring weather inspires so many outdoor activities and lucky for us they are calorie burners too. Check out how many calories my favorite Spring activities burn. The amounts are based on a 130-pound woman.

Source

Get in Gear: Kelty Dog Pack for Hiking

FitSugar — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 14:45:00 -0700

Spring weather makes me want to go for a long hike with the entire family, and that means our dog, Bonnie, comes along, too. It's important to pack water, snacks, and extra layers for everyone, but since my daughters are young, they get tired carrying anything for too long. So I've been thinking about putting Bonnie to work. Check out this Kelty Chuck Wagon Dog Pack (medium, $50).

I so want this pack, since I have other packs (you know the ones for humans) made by Kelty and love them. They're well made, not too expensive, and really durable. This pack is great for dogs weighing 35 to 65 pounds, with a girth of 22 to 35 inches. The zippered compartments allow Bonnie to help carry the stuff we need, and she can even carry food and water for herself. I love that it's bright red, so we'll be able to see her easily in the woods. Depending on the size of your pooch, they also make this pack in small ($45) and large ($55).

Spring Fit Tip: Bring Enough Water

FitSugar — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 08:00:00 -0700

Spring is here and you know what that means? It's time to bring your workouts outdoors! If you're going to be embarking on any hiking or biking then be sure you bring along enough water.

A good rule of thumb is to have 16 ounces for every hour you anticipate to be gone. I know it may seem like a lot but nothing is worse than finding yourself two hours away from home on a lovely bike trip as you realize you've just finished your last drop of water. If you're going to be doing a bit of day trippin' than you may even want to invest in a hydration pack.

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Healthy Holiday Tip: Start a Healthy Tradition

FitSugar — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 09:30:00 -0800

The time spent after eating our huge Thanksgiving meals usually consists of plopping down in front of the TV and/or heading out to the movies. Now I don't have anything against TV or going to the movies, but this Thanksgiving try to start a healthy tradition.

Gather the troops for a fun game of flag football, bike ride, hike, or even just a walk through the neighborhood to see which of your over-zealous neighbors have started decorating for Christmas already.

It's never too late to start your own tradition and next year your family may even look forward to actually playing a game of football rather than watching one on TV.

Do you have any healthy or active Thanksgiving traditions? If so, share them below.

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Make Your Next Date a Fitness Date

FitSugar — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 14:30:00 -0700

Dating can definitely put a damper on your healthy lifestyle. All those drinks, popcorn at the movies, decadent dinners out, and late-night talks over gelato are bound to mess up your healthy routine.

I'm not saying you should forgo all that delicious food and never eat out, but why not throw some active dates in there as well? Here are some ideas:

Meet at your gym (he can use your guest pass) and you guys can work out before heading to dinner.
You could sit and talk at a coffee shop, or you can walk and talk instead.
Plan an afternoon hike on the weekend.
Go horseback riding. You can take a lesson together.
Take dance lessons together, or just go dancing.
Visit an indoor rock climbing gym.
Take a partner yoga class or other fitness class together.
Go ice skating at an indoor rink. Many arenas offer times for public skating, so call ahead to find out what times are available.
Rent bikes together and take a tour of the town you live in.
Play a game of tennis, golf (with no cart), football, baseball, or whatever. If you're not into playing a whole game, just play catch, go to the batting cages, or hit golf balls at the driving range.

If you have any other ideas for fitness dates, be sure to share them below.

Source

Get Physical: Urban Hiking

FitSugar — Sat, 27 Oct 2007 03:30:00 -0700

When you're traveling in a foreign city you typically explore it by walking. You stumble onto some hidden gems down narrow side streets, and you burn a considerable amount of calories while you are at it. Why not be a tourist in your own town and head out for an adventure on foot and do some urban hiking?

Instead of driving out of town to find a trail, keep your carbon footprint small for the day and head out your own front door for a hike. I would still pack all the hiking essentials: water, snacks, and layers depending on the weather. When hiking about town, sometimes I like to just wander with no particular destination in mind. I just head out in a certain direction and allow myself to be drawn from point of interest to point of interest. Other times, I have a specific destination, like a restaurant, park or museum and I make the journey part of the adventure.

Urban hiking is perfect for holding hands with your honey, since sidewalks are wider than most trails. Plus, when you return home you can map your walk online and see how many miles you walked. I did a lot of urban hiking before having children, but this is definitely something that works well as a couple or with the entire family.

So if you can't get out of Dodge, you can still hike with your honey.

Source

Get Physical: Leaf Peep While You Hike

FitSugar — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 03:30:00 -0700

Hiking is a great way to get some exercise with your honey, all while enjoying the gorgeous views of autumn leaves. It's a great form of exercise since you're working your muscles and breathing heavy. Plus, if the trail is steep, you get to use your arms as well, so it works your upper body too.

If you don't live in an area that gets brilliant foliage, then you and your honey should try to go leaf peeping —photographing and viewing the fall foliage— somewhere else. Check out this list of the Top 100 Trails in North America. The list shows trails in just about every state, which means you're sure to find one near you (or near where you'll be visiting).

Be sure to pack extra layers since it can get chilly and windy towards the summit. Wear hiking boots that protect your ankles, and have sturdy soles since the ground can get really slippery in the fall. Of course don't forget snacks, water, and a camera too, since the views are spectacular once you reach the top.

Fit's Tips: Does trekking it back downhill hurt your knees? Check out these great tips for protecting your knees while hiking downhill.

Wicking Socks All Active Women Need

FitSugar — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 15:45:00 -0700

Your feet take a lot of abuse from all the pounding, stomping, kicking and leaping you do. It is a fact that if you are on the move, your feet are too. This means they get hot. This means they get sweaty. All that extra moisture can cause some nasty blisters. Cotton socks stay wet, so you need socks made out of merino wool, which wicks. The wool pulls moisture away from your skin, keeping your feet dry and comfy.

Here are some of my favorites made by Darn Tough and Smartwool. You can choose the amount of thickness and cushion you need, and the height of sock. All the pairs come in some wonderful colors too, many more than the ones shown here.

5 Things: Happy Hiking Feet

FitSugar — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 09:30:00 -0700

Autumn is my favorite time to go for a hike. I always try to take a trip somewhere to catch some mountain views of colorful foliage. I pack some food, plenty of water, and some extra layers and head out early so I can get to the summit by noon for lunch.

This kind of hike takes about five hours, and it can wreak havoc on your poor feet. Here are some tips to keep your trotters pain free.

Buy hiking boots that cover your ankle. This will keep your ankle stable and prevent it from turning or twisting. Also make sure they fit properly and have a rugged sole that will grip on wet and uneven terrain. Break in your new hiking boots with shorter hikes before committing to a day-long hike.

Give yourself a pedicure before your hike. What I mean is to make sure your toenails are cut short and square. Long toenails can bruise or cut into the skin.
Wear wicking socks to prevent your sweaty feet from staying moist and causing blisters.
Pack band-aids or moleskin pads in your lumbar pack just in case you feel a blister forming.
Rest your feet. When taking breaks for water or lunch, take off your boots and socks and let your tootsies air out. You can also elevate them to help reduce swelling.

Source

Get in Gear: Shock-Absorbing Hiking Poles

FitSugar — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 15:45:00 -0700

I went hiking this weekend up a trail named Hell's Brook. I learned the name after arriving at the trail head. If I had had that knowledge ahead of time, I would have known to bring along my hiking poles.

I'm liking these from REI called Traverse Shock Trekking Poles. They're only $79 for the pair, when others can run you almost $200 for just one.

What makes these poles so different? To find out

Get in Gear: Mountainsmith Earth-Friendly Lumbar Pack

FitSugar — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 02:30:00 -0700

I'm a huge fan of lumbar packs because they're so comfy on your lower back. Since they sit on your hips rather than your shoulders, you won't have to worry about getting a sweaty back while you're hiking, running, or biking with them. Plus they're big enough to hold a day's worth of gear, and the gentle pressure on your tail bone feels incredibly supportive.

Mountainsmith makes great lumbar packs, like the Dart, but a few of their models are now being made with recycled materials. Each of their lumbar packs is made using between 12 and 13 plastic bottles.

This is the Tour Lumbar Pack and it's the perfect size for a day hike or other outing. It can hold two 32 oz water bottles on the outside for easy access. There's a main zippered compartment that can hold big stuff like binoculars, a camera, or a long sleeve shirt. There's also a front zippered pocket for smaller stuff like snacks or your cell phone. See the yellow bungee cord on the front? It can be used to hold an extra layer like a rain jacket, fleece, or long-sleeve shirt.

Want to hear more about it and see how much it costs? Then

Outdoor Activities, Just a Few Ideas

FitSugar — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 13:30:00 -0700

So you've decided now that it's autumn, you're going to start being more active outdoors. Problem is, what's there to do? To a novice outdoorsy woman the idea of hanging out, well, outside seems daunting but there are tons of things you can do to get moving, you just have to open up to ideas.

Here are a few of my favorite ways to burn a few extra calories outside this fall:

Hiking
Mountain biking
Raking leaves
Walking your dog
Walking shelter dogs
Flying a kite
Walking
Running/Jogging
Eco-running
Geocaching
Doing Community service (Habitat for Humanity, etc.)
Apple Picking

Those are just a few of the many ways to get active outside this fall. What's your favorite fall activity? Share it in the comments section below.

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Get in Gear: Binoculars for Your Hike

FitSugar — Wed, 12 Sep 2007 02:30:00 -0700

If you love exercising outside, I'm sure part of the reason is because you love being immersed in nature. There are so many smells, vibrant colors, and amazing things to see, that it inspires me to stay out longer.

Once the cooler weather starts to set in, I love to go hiking because there's a ton of wildlife to see. It's also a great workout because even though you are just walking, if you are going uphill it works your muscles and gets your heart rate up too.

Just in case I hear a woodpecker or catch a hawk flying overhead, I always bring a pair of binoculars so I can get a closer look. You can end up spending over $500 on a really nice pair, but if you're like me, you want something that's small, lightweight, and not that high tech. That's why I love these Nikon Travelite V 12 x 25 Binoculars ($129.95).

Want to hear more about them? Then

Get Your Butt in Gear: Patagonia Lightweight Fleece

FitSugar — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 02:30:00 -0700

September is here and whether you like it or not, the weather is starting to cool off. I'm a little sad that warm weather is dwindling away, but I am psyched to spend more time outside. The cooler weather of autumn makes exercising outside much more pleasant and safe, since you don't have to worry as much about overheating. You do need to wear extra layers though.

Every outdoorswoman needs to have a great fleece. I love this one from Patagonia - the Lightweight R4 Jacketa, because it's simple yet practical.

It's not too big and bulky, so it won't get in the way when you move. Plus the best part is that this fleece is windproof, so you'll stay extra warm. I also like the fact that the shoulders are seamless, so if you are wearing a backpack, the seams won't dig into you. Pockets are a necessity and this jacket has three - 2 hand pockets, and 1 on your chest.

I know that $200 may seem kind of pricey, but remember that even though this jacket is lightweight, it'll still keep you as warm as thicker fleeces because it's windproof. Plus it's a great jacket to layer underneath a hardshell or down jacket for the winter. It's also 100% recyclable through the Common Threads Recycling Program. Order it from Patagonia in Aquatic Blue, Poppy Fields (both shown), Black, and Safety Green.

Tips for Hiking Etiquette

FitSugar — Sat, 08 Sep 2007 03:00:00 -0700

Ahhh September. This is the perfect month to enjoy a day hike since the weather is usually a bit cooler, but still gorgeous. Since you already know what to pack, now all you need to know are some rules of hiking etiquette and ways to ensure you have the least amount of impact.

Stick to the dirt trail. It'll keep you safe and it will protect the natural environment. If everyone trampled wherever they wanted, there wouldn't be much plant life to enjoy.
If it's a hike you're not too familiar with pack a map of the trail, a GPS device and a compass. Getting lost is no fun. Also be considerate to your friends and family and let them know where you are going and when you'll be back. If anything happens, you want people to know where to look for you.
If you bring your dog, there may be a rule about keeping him or her on a leash. Follow this rule, as there may be fellow hikers on the trail who have other dogs or who are afraid of them. Be sure to clean up after your dog too.
Pack a small garbage bag so you can keep track of your trash and pick up after other messy hikers.

There's more you should know before hitting the trail. To find out

Take a Hike: TrailLink.com

FitSugar — Fri, 07 Sep 2007 08:45:00 -0700

Late summer and early fall are prime hiking seasons. The air is just a wee bit cooler and the leaves are just starting to turn. If you are at a loss of where to hike I have a great web source for you - TrailLink.com. This site will help you find the best trails for your outdoor recreation of choice, be it: walking, biking, horseback riding or inline skating and more. I would just start with the advanced search because it is more specific, and you can find parks in your state with trails for your activity. You can even search by wheelchair accessibility!

The site is sponsored by the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy initiative (a great program that turns abandoned railroad track into multi-use trails), but the trails listed are not limited to converted railroad trails, they even list some urban bike paths!

So get out there and take a hike!

Letterboxing: A Hiker's Treasure Hunt

FitSugar — Thu, 30 Aug 2007 02:30:00 -0700

If you are into hiking, nature, and treasure hunts, Letterboxing may be the thing for you. It's an environmentally-friendly activity similar to Geocaching, but instead of looking for a box with trinkets and things in it, you find a box with a logbook (like the one below) and a hand-carved rubber stamp.

Here's the basic gist: Someone hides a waterproof box (usually a plastic Tupperware container) in some remote, scenic, or interesting location. It contains a logbook, a carved rubber stamp and perhaps other goodies like a pencil or stamp pad. The hider then writes directions to the letterbox (called "clues or "the map") which can be straightforward, cryptic, or anywhere in between. The clues often contain map coordinates, but don't have to.

Where can you find the clues? To find out

Get in Gear: Kelty Day Pack

FitSugar — Fri, 24 Aug 2007 15:45:00 -0700

Hiking is one of those outdoor sports that's great for late summer and early fall, when warm weather begins to cool. When you go for a hike, it's a great idea to go with someone who has trekked the trail or mountain you're planning to hike. You need some durable hiking boots and some wicking socks to go with them.

You're also going to need a comfortable pack to hold your water and gear. Check out this Kelty Range Daypack. Like the name suggests, this pack has a whole range of uses. There's a roomy, padded main compartment that features an interior sleeve that can be used to carry a hydration reservoir (like one from Platypus), a journal or laptop.

Want to hear more? Then

What's the Deal With: Geocaching

FitSugar — Wed, 22 Aug 2007 11:45:00 -0700

Some people use their Global Positioning System (GPS) when they are lost, and some people use it for fun. Geocaching is an outdoor treasure-hunting game in which the participants use a GPS or other navigational techniques to hide and also seek out containers (called "geocaches" or "caches") anywhere in the world.

Here's how it works: individuals and organizations set up caches anywhere they want (usually on hiking trails) and then they share the locations of these caches on the internet. GPS users can then use the latitude and longitude coordinates to find the caches. They can be found tied up in the branches of trees, in a field of grass, just off a path, or anywhere else along a trail. Once found, a cache may provide the visitor with a wide variety of rewards. All the visitor is asked to do is to leave something in the cache container if they take something.

What do you find in a cache? To find out

Spider Bites: What You Should Know

FitSugar — Wed, 08 Aug 2007 10:15:00 -0700

When you go hiking or camping, you're bound to come across creepy crawlers. Most bugs, like mosquitoes, are annoying yes, but fairly harmless. If you're lucky enough to not have to worry about bee allergies, you still need to be on the look out for spiders.

Only a few spiders are dangerous to humans, but 2 live in the U.S., and are most commonly found in the southern states. The black widow spider and the brown recluse spider both prefer warm climates and dark, dry places where flies are plentiful. They often live in littered, undisturbed areas, such as closets, woodpiles and under sinks.

What should you do if you've been bitten by one of these? To find out

What Kind of Socks Should I Wear Hiking?

FitSugar — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 11:45:00 -0700

Summer is a great time to hit the hiking trails. Having a great pair of hiking socks is just as important as a solid pair of hiking boots. You can't just wear any old sock, since hiking is so demanding on your poor tootsies. You've got to wear a sock that will be durable enough to take the pressure of your pounding steps. Plus it needs to be made out of a material that will wick sweat away from your skin to prevent blisters.

That's where merino wool socks come in. Check these out, made by a company in Vermont called Darn Tough. They make some excellent socks for outdoor activities, and you can trust their designs since they're tested in the mountains and trails of VT.

These boot socks offer high density cushioning around the entire foot where you need it. They're made out of pre-shrunk merino wool, and the ribbing above the ankle ensures a proper and snug fit. The toe and heel are reinforced so you won't have to worry about holes in your socks.

I know you're wondering, "Aren't these socks itchy?" Not at all. Merino wool is extra soft and these socks are also made of nylon and spandex. You can order them online from gearX.com for $20. Since they're so durable, you'll know they'll last.

Get in Gear: Petzl Headlamp

FitSugar — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 11:45:00 -0700

To stay safe outside when the light is waning, or completely gone, you need to be able to see and to be seen. So if you are camping and searching for firewood or cooking up some camp grub, you need your hands and you need light. You can't really hold a flashlight in these situations so what's a gal to do?

These situations call for a headlamp, a hands-free light that you wear on your head. Headlamps may be slightly dorky (OK - really dorky) but they sure are useful. The Tikka Plus LED (($34.95), by Petz, is water-resistant and takes 3 AAA batteries that can power the lamp for up to 22 hours. Think about how much firewood you can gather in 22 hours.

The head of the lamp swivels so you can aim light where you need it, and you can select from 4 levels of brightness. It even has a bright strobe setting making you more visible to cars and other people. This is an important feature if you are using the headlamp as a bike light or wearing it on a nighttime run (not the safest of activities but sometimes you have to exercise in the dark).

Having a headlamp makes me feel safe when I'm in the outdoors, and I always keep mine in my pack - you never know when you'll need a light.

Altitude Sickness: Too High Too Fast

FitSugar — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 03:30:00 -0700

Even if you have been working out using the treadmill mountain hike, when you actually tackle the mountain you should be aware of the dangers of altitude sickness.

If you are planning on scaling some peaks this summer, plan on progressing slowly up the mountain to avoid such symptoms as: nausea, headache, shortness of breath, and difficulty sleeping. Symptoms usually occur above 8,000 feet. It is best to take your time going up so your body can acclimate to the different altitudes.

Camp the first night around 3,000 to 6,000 feet and then again at 6,000 to 8,000. If you feel sick at all, that is a sign to get down - and I don't mean boogie. Nope! You need to move to a lower altitude. Avoiding caffeine and nicotine (I don't understand the desire to smoke, especially in nature) since they can exacerbate fluid loss and rapid heartbeat that occur naturally as you go up in altitude.

Source

How to Protect Your Knees When Hiking Downhill

FitSugar — Tue, 10 Jul 2007 08:45:00 -0700

Hopefully you all are getting outside and going for some hikes. While hiking uphill feels great, works your backside and increases your heart rate, walking down the other side can cause some serious knee pain. Walking, or even worse running, downhill can really stress your knee joints. Here are a few tips on how to protect your knees when headed down an incline.

Wake up your VMO - The VMO (vastis medialis oblique) is the muscle that keeps the knee cap tracking correctly. It is the inner part of your quads and soccer stars like Davids Beckham, have nicely developed VMO's. It is a lazy muscle so you have to wake up the VMO by giving it a little pat, smack or flick. I know it sounds crazy, but it works.

Zig-zag - Instead of walking straight down the incline, try going in a zig zag pattern. Making your own personal switch backs significantly decreases the pressure on your knee joints. Plus if you are wearing a pedometer, walking this way will probably double the amount of steps you take on your descent.

Try walking backwards Walking backwards gives tired muscles a break since moving this way uses the opposite muscle group of walking forward. Make sure to twist your head around to see where you are going and do alternate the shoulder you look over - you don't want to tweak your neck just looking to one side.

If your knees are bugging you after a vigorous hike, try rolling out your IT Band.

Source

What to Pack for a Day Hike

FitSugar — Tue, 26 Jun 2007 12:01:18 -0700

I love to get an early start in the morning when I am planning an all day hike up and down a mountain. The air is cooler in the morning and there are less people on the trail. Since I plan to be out for at least 4 hours, maybe even 8 hours if I am feeling really ambitious, I need more than just water in my day pack.

I made this widget - it's a list of day hike essentials. Check it out.

You can create your own Fit List and then Build Your Own Widget to share on TeamSugar.

Fit's Tips: I always pack my lunch and snacks in a plastic grocery bag and when I'm done, I use the bag for my trash and any I find on the trail.

Get in Gear: Lightweight Hiking Boots by Vasque

FitSugar — Mon, 04 Jun 2007 17:15:00 -0700

If you're used to hiking or snowshoeing in the winter, than you probably already have a pair of waterproof winter boots. Those are great for frigid temperatures, but now that it's much warmer, you should think about getting yourself a pair of lightweight hiking boots. You'll be able to move quicker, have more traction on slippery or uneven ground, and they'll offer ventilation so your feet can stay dry. Check the Vasque Breeze. Want to hear why they're so great? Then

Know Your Enemy: Poison Ivy!

FitSugar — Fri, 01 Jun 2007 02:30:00 -0700

'Tis the season for Hiking and trail running. There's a lot of beauty in these woods, but you got to be careful and avoid the poison ivy that lurks at the edges of the forest. Yes, it pays to know your enemy.

First off, it is the uroshiol oil on the plant that is the culprit and creates the horrible itchy, blistery skin reactions associated with poison ivy. While some people don't have a reaction to the oil, others may be hospitalized because their reaction is so severe. You should also know that even if you've been exposed to poison ivy and had no reaction, you are not necessarily immune to it. People can develop reactions at any time of their lives, so it is best to avoid poison ivy at all costs.

You will experience symptoms wherever the oil makes contact with your skin. First you will get a red, itchy spot on your skin, that develops into blisters. Once you wash your skin with soap and cold water, the rash won't spread. If you pop the blisters, the rash won't spread either, but the wounds could become infected so it is best not to pop them.

Many plants can look like poison ivy, so pay close attention whenever you're walking in moist areas. The rule "Leaves of 3, Let it be," doesn't always work. It can grow in groups of 3 leaves, with a larger middle leaf, but it can also grow up to 9 leaves in a group.

Want to know what to look out for, then

Interval Training and Asthma

FitSugar — Wed, 30 May 2007 11:00:00 -0700

If you have asthma, especially if it's exercise induced asthma (EIA), you definitely don't want to skip out on exercise altogether. Regularly working out, the kind that gets your heart pumping and your lungs working quickly, can actually relieve asthma symptoms. Huffing and puffing can get mucus out of your lungs, and help you take deeper breaths.

What you don't want to do is interval training. Whether you're running, hiking, biking, swimming, rollerblading, or whatever, you don't want to push yourself as hard as you can - you may end up having to stop altogether because you can't breathe.

Instead, try to stay at a consistent speed that's fast enough to be breathing heavy, but not so fast that your chest hurts because your airways are constricted. You can definitely do short spurts of working a little harder, but just be aware of your breath, and work at a pace that your lungs can keep up with.

If your asthma symptoms are triggered by seasonal allergies, you may want to exercise indoors. You can also talk to your doctor about certain allergy medications that may be geared toward helping asthma symptoms, such as Singulair. Also, if you have a rescue inhaler like Albuterol, you may find that it helps to take a puff or two about 15 minutes before you exercise outside.

Fit's Tips: Make sure you have water and your inhaler near you while working out. If you do start to feel that tightness in your chest, and are having a hard time getting air in and out, STOP what you're doing and focus on taking deep long breaths to calm your body and mind. You can often prevent an attack just by concentrating on inhaling and exhaling slowly, and taking small sips of water. If that doesn't work, definitely take your inhaler. After 5 minutes, if your symptoms go away, I'd go back to working out, but take it easy - you don't need to have another asthma attack.

Source

Get in Gear: Must Have Gadget for Hiking

FitSugar — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 04:00:00 -0700

Seriously, sometimes I think I am MacGyver. Especially when I am out in the woods on a hike but the truth is that while I love the occasional hike in the woods (or along the coastline) I am no outdoorsy guru.

That being said, I like to feel prepared at all times, especially when playing in the great outdoors. Many day hikes may not require the AdventurePlus ($20.00), but it never hurts to be prepared, now does it? This one little gadget includes a compass, a mirror, a magnifying glass, a whistle, a thermometer, a flashlight and a tiny little compartment to keep things (like matches) dry. Buy it online from Highgear.com.

Hiking will be even more fun now that you're prepared to take on any situation so you can concentrate on getting that heart rate going. Now all you need is a good trail to explore -- Check out this listing of free trails.

What's Your Favorite Spring Outdoor Activity?

FitSugar — Sun, 15 Apr 2007 04:00:00 -0700

For most of us the warmer, longer days mean more of an opportunity to get outside and do something. So what's your favorite Spring activity to do outdoors? Source

Alternative Activities for Spring

FitSugar — Mon, 09 Apr 2007 11:00:00 -0700

Spring has sprung which means we are able to spend a little more time outside these days and getting a good workout is not only reserved for the confines of your gym walls. You may love the gym, but there are other things you can do outdoors this spring to supplement your workout. For a list of alternative activities for your aerobic (cardio) and anaerobic (weight lifting) workouts,

Get Your Butt in Gear: Ventigaiters

FitSugar — Wed, 04 Apr 2007 15:45:00 -0700

Spring is about warmer weather, buds growing, and flowers blooming. Well, not quite yet. First comes the rain and when it rains, that means mud.

Don't let a little mud prevent you from taking that first spring hike you've been looking forward to all winter. All you need is a rain jacket, some waterproof trail shoes like these from Keen, and something to protect your lower legs from getting wet and dirty.

What you need are these Nut Shell Ventigaiters from Mountain Hardwear. They do an awesome job of keeping the mud, rocks, and wetness from getting into your shoes. If you get hot, these gaiters also have an optional roll back mesh lining near your calf that can be opened to let your legs "breathe."

These are also made for women, so they'll fit you better than other unisex gaiters. For $29.95, they're cheaper than most too.

What a Fit Girl Does Before a Big Event: Hike!

FitSugar — Sun, 25 Feb 2007 07:30:00 -0800

Today, the stars may be looking for a way to unwind prior to a big event like, you've guessed it, The Oscars!

Hiking is simply walking on a path -- it could be a an easy winding trail or a steep treacherous one, either way it's hiking. Hiking can be a great way to escape your regular gym routine as well as a great way of clearing your mind before a major event. I'm guessing that may be what Drew Barrymore is getting ready to do here.

Like Drew, make sure you're prepared, because nothing could kill a red carpet event like getting lost in the woods without water. For hiking tips and more pics of Drew getting ready for a hike,

Wool Socks - These are Darn Tough

FitSugar — Tue, 06 Feb 2007 13:00:00 -0800

Merino wool really is the way to go when it comes to active wear, and socks are no exception. I just found this sock company named Darn Tough. They're a small company - they make all of their socks in their mill in Northfield, VT.

Their socks are made with a combination of warm and breathable merino wool, and soft and strong Coolmax fibers. They insulate to keep you warm, and the wool is great at wicking moisture away from your foot when you sweat.

Plus, they're on-mountain socks to cover your entire calf and shin, keeping them warm and cushioned from the pressure of your ski boots.

These socks, although made from wool, aren't the slightest bit itchy. They also make shorter socks for running and hiking.

I'm a huge fan of Darn Tough (as are a ton of other people) mostly because they make one awesome, comfy and durable sock, but also because I like to support smaller companies. Find a pair nearest you and I'm sure you'll agree.

Cardio Machine: Summit Trainer

FitSugar — Thu, 25 Jan 2007 10:00:00 -0800

If you've ever been hiking, you know that it works your entire body - all your muscles, joints and most importantly, your heart. You can hike up a mountain in the winter, but most people choose not to because it's so darn cold and windy.

Recently at the gym, I saw a new machine and just HAD to try it. It's called the Summit Trainer.

I guess it could be compared to a StairMaster or an Arc Trainer. But it's more like hiking than anything else.

You move your feet like you're stepping or climbing up a hill and you can either keep your hands on the front handles, or for more intensity, you can move the side "arms" as well for a total body workout. It also has a built-in digital heart rate monitor located conveniently on the handles.

You can choose a workout that will automatically adjust the resistance level to keep you in your target heart rate zone. Or you can do interval training workouts. You can also set personal goals and the Summit Trainer will give you a workout to meet them.

Not only is it great for your heart and muscles, but it'll get you ready for warmer weather when you can do the real hike thing.

Want to see more pictures? Then

Get in Gear: Nike Water Cat

FitSugar — Thu, 25 Jan 2007 03:00:00 -0800

Ok, they have all-terrain vehicles for the road. What about all-terrain vehicles for your feet?

Nike will be introducing (not quite yet) a radical new shoe design made for land and water. Well not quite radical, KEEN has been making shoes like this for years (and they are a much more environmentally conscious company than Nike - but enough of the rant).

They're lightweight, and the sole is rubberized so you'll have good traction when hiking through wet trails.

Nike Water Cats can also be used for water sports like kayaking or white water rafting (which you're all into, I know) to protect your feet from sharp rocks and nibbling critters.

They're flexible so they can easily be packed into a backpack for your next outing. Hopefully, they'll hit stores by the time the warm weather arrives.

Get in Gear: The Sugar Pack

FitSugar — Thu, 18 Jan 2007 04:00:00 -0800

If you are into doing anything outdoors, you've got to have a Camelbak. It's an easy way to make sure you've always got your water with you.

Sometimes when you're out for the day, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or whatever, it's annoying to have to stop all the time to get your water bottle out of your backpack.

Using the Camelbak keeps your water much more accessible so you are apt to drink as much water as you need.

It's a pack that has a reservoir pouch that holds the water. And there's a little tube that goes from there all the way up to your shoulder. To get the water out, you bite down on the end and suck - it's like a big straw - it's so easy.

But won't my water freeze? Nope. Camelbak makes insulated packs like this one so your water is protected from the cold. It's called the Sugar pack. You know I love that!!!

For $70, it holds 70 oz of water and has extra storage space for important things like snacks, a camera, your cell phone, and extra layers. What a brilliant idea.

Feeling Adventurous for 2007?

FitSugar — Thu, 28 Dec 2006 08:31:17 -0800

In 2006 you played it safe and stayed close to home. For 2007, you have vowed to become more adventurous and take a walk on the wild side. And I'm not talking about washing colors and whites together ladies!

Adventure Women Inc. is a travel company for active women over 30. Their adventure vacations are for women traveling solo, or with sisters, mothers, daughters and friends.

Adventure Women offers a variety of trips year round like the Alaskan Wildlife Safari and Bear Viewing (June 9 - 16, 2007) which includes deluxe lodges and comfortable adventure camps, flying by bush plane to spectacular Bear Camp for bear viewing of Grizzlies and cubs in their natural habitat, whitewater rafting on Alaska’s rivers, sea kayaking on Resurrection Bay, hiking on a glacier, exploring Homer and Kachemark Bay and much more! The cost is a whooping $3,895 but well worth it if you're looking to add adventure in your life.

Check out the other tours and more on AdventureWomen.com.