Hiking While Fat And Having Fun!

Are you a plus-size person who's hesitant to go hiking because you're worried about how you'll look and feel?

Do you think that hiking is only for people with perfect bodies who love getting sweaty and muddy? If so, I'm here to tell you that you're wrong. 

Hiking can be a fun, rewarding experience for everyone, no matter what your size or fitness level. Believe it or not, being overweight doesn't have to stop you from enjoying one of nature's most rewarding activities.

So put on your hiking boots and explore the great outdoors.

In this article, I will share some tips on how to hike while fat and have fun doing it. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy a great hiking experience without feeling self-conscious or uncomfortable.

So go ahead and get out there – the world is waiting for you!

Practice Makes Perfect…or Almost

Hiking is a great way to get some exercise and fresh air, but it can be challenging for plus-size hikers. After all, you'll be carrying extra weight up and down hills, and you'll need to have good cardiovascular fitness to make it to the top.

However, regular practice and training can effectively prepare you for a hike. Start by going on shorter walks, gradually increasing the distance as you get more fit. It's also important to focus on strengthening your legs, which will help you with the steep inclines.

To improve your cardiovascular health, start by slowly adding some basic cardio exercises to your routine. Cardio will help build your endurance and prepare your body for the physical demands of hiking.

Start with walking or jogging for 20-30 minutes three times per week. Once you're feeling more comfortable, you can add in some interval training, like sprinting for 30 seconds followed by a minute of walking.

Slow And Steady Wins The Race

I know from experience that it's easy to get discouraged when you see all the skinny people fly by you on the trail. However, it's important to remember that they didn't get there overnight and that you can too if you just take your time.

Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither can the stamina to hike up a mountain. So don't compare yourself to others and focus on your journey.

Trust me, if you keep at it, eventually you'll reach the top too. And the satisfaction of completing a hike that once seemed impossible is truly priceless.

If you're new to hiking, don't try to tackle an intense hike right away. Start with some shorter, easier trails and work your way up.

Progress Over Perfection

Progress over perfection is a great motto to keep in mind when you're preparing for a hike, especially if you're out of shape or carrying a few extra pounds.

It's important to get in some sort of physical activity before embarking on a hike, but don't feel like you have to train for months or get down to your "ideal" weight. 

Just focus on making some progress - every little bit counts. Walking around the block a few times, doing some bodyweight exercises at home, or taking a few yoga classes will all help get your body ready for a hike.

And remember, it's not about being perfect - even if you have to take a few rests along the way, just enjoy the scenery and the sense of accomplishment.

Take your time when hiking up mountains – there's no need to rush to the top. It's okay if you have to take frequent breaks or if it takes you a few tries to get to the top. Just focus on doing what you can and having fun with it.

Consistency Is The Key

Start by gradually adding some basic aerobic exercises to your daily routine. Once you have built up your endurance, start adding in some strength-training exercises to help increase your muscle tone.

Then, focus on gradually increasing the distance and difficulty of your hikes. If you can stick with a consistent training schedule, you will be well on your way to being prepared for even the most challenging hike.

And, who knows, you might even enjoy yourself along the way!

Always remember consistency over intensity. If you focus on moving every single day, be it a quick walk around the block or a few stretches in your living room, the odds of meeting your goal improve dramatically.

Fastest Way To Get In Shape For Hiking

Hiking is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors, but it can also be quite physically demanding. If you're not properly prepared, you might find yourself struggling to keep up with the pace or even getting injured.

So how can you make sure you're in shape for hiking? 

First, start by gradually increasing the amount of walking you do each day. You can also add in some light jogging or running if you're feeling extra energetic. Once you've built up your stamina, start adding hills or other inclines to your route.

This will help to increase leg strength and endurance.

This doesn't mean you need to start running marathons, but adding some extra cardiovascular activity to your routine will help get your lungs and heart ready for the rigors of hiking. A few times a week, go for a brisk walk, jog, or bike ride. 

Secondly, don't forget about strength training. Hiking involves using all of the major muscle groups in your legs, so it's important to build up some strength and endurance before hitting the trails. And with a little time and effort, you'll be ready to tackle any hiking trail.

Pack High Energy Snack

Hiking can be taxing on your body, especially if you're carrying some extra weight. That's why it's important to pack high-energy snacks when you hit the trails, so you can keep your energy levels up and avoid bonking halfway through your hike.

Some good options include trail mix, nut butter packets, and energy bars. Not only will these snacks help you power through your hike, but they'll also give you the boost you need to make it up those tough hills.

So next time you hit the trails, make sure you pack some snacks to keep your energy levels up.

Is Hiking Good For Losing Weight?

Believe it or not, hiking can be a great workout for people looking to lose weight. And, even better, it's a low-impact exercise, which means it's easy on your joints. How does hiking help with weight loss? 

• First, it gets your heart rate up, which helps to burn calories. 
• Second, it strengthens your lower body muscles, including your thighs, calves, and glutes. 
• Third, it helps to increase your metabolism. Most importantly, When you're out in nature, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, you can clear your mind and relax. This can help to reduce cortisol levels, which can lead to weight loss. 

So next time you're looking for a way to switch up your workout routine, consider hiking. It's a great way to get some fresh air and shed some pounds at the same time.

What Are The Best Shoes For Overweight Walkers?

Hiking is a fantastic method to get exercise and enjoy the outdoors, but if you want to genuinely appreciate it, you'll need the proper equipment.

That's why we've put together a list of essential hiking gear that every hiker should have before hitting the trail.

The first item on our list is a good pair of hiking boots. Hiking boots are designed to provide support and stability on uneven terrain, and they also protect your feet from rocks and other debris.

They should be comfortable and provide good support for your feet, as you'll be doing a lot of walking. But how to choose an appropriate pair of shaking shoes for an overweight walker?

Well, we have put together a list of our favorite hiking shoes that will provide you with the stability, comfort, and traction you need to safely enjoy your time on the trail, no matter what your weight is.

Altra Lone Peak 4 Mid Hiking Shoes

These hiking shoes from Altra are specifically designed for walkers who need a little extra stability and support.

The Lone Peak 4 Mid  features a wider toe box than most other hiking shoes on the market, which gives your toes plenty of room to spread out and grip the ground for added stability. 

The shoes also have a reinforced stabilizing shank that helps prevent rolled ankles and an integrated Gaiter Trap system that keeps debris and dirt out of your shoes.

Moreover, the 5 mm Contour Footbed is specially designed to accommodate and support overweight walkers.

Best Hiking Pants For Fat Guys

Hiking is a great way to get outside and explore nature, but it's important to be properly equipped for the journey. That includes having the right pair of pants. Hiking pants should be comfortable, durable, and offer plenty of storage options.

They also need to be well-ventilated to prevent sweat build-up, and they should offer some level of protection from the elements. For fat guys, finding a pair of hiking pants that hits all those marks can be a challenge.

But don’t worry, we have found the perfect pair of plus-size hiking pants from Columbia.

Columbia Men’s Bugaboo IV Pant

The Columbia Men’s Bugaboo IV Pant is a great choice for men who need thermal reflective and waterproof pants that are most appropriate for colder climates.

These pants are made from a cotton/polyester blend material that is both comfortable and durable, and they feature several pockets that make them perfect for carrying all of your essentials with you on the go.

Additionally, the pants are available in a variety of colors and sizes, so you’re sure to find the perfect pair to suit your needs. Most importantly, their waist size range from 29”-47”, so definitely there is a size for everyone.

Best Hiking Shorts For Fat Guys

Finding the right hiking gear can be a challenge, especially if you're a "fat guy." Fortunately, there are a few brands that make hiking shorts specifically for bigger guys.

However, here is a few things to keep in mind while choosing your hiking shorts:

• Firstly, you'll want to make sure that the shorts are made from a breathable and quick-drying fabric. This will help to keep you comfortable on long hikes, even in warm weather. 
• Secondly, you'll want to choose a pair of shorts with plenty of pockets. This will give you a place to store snacks, maps, and other essential items while you're on the trail. 
• Finally, you'll want to make sure that the shorts fit well. They should be snug but not too tight, and they should have an adjustable waistband so that you can get the perfect fit.

Columbia Men's Royce Peak II Short

One of my favorites is the Men's Royce Peak II Short from Columbia. These shorts are made from a lightweight and quick-drying fabric, and they feature an adjustable waistband that ensures a comfortable fit. 

They also have plenty of pockets for storing snacks and other essentials. The fabric has a bit of stretch to it, which makes for a comfortable fit even when squatting or bending over.

These can fit waists up to 52". If you're looking for a pair of shorts that will keep you cool and comfortable on the trail, these shorts from Columbia are a great option.

In short, if you are worried about finding quality plus-size hiking apparel, then Columbia is the most reliable brand in the market.

Bring Trekking Poles

Trekking poles are an essential piece of gear for any serious hiker, but they can be especially helpful for overweight hikers. By distributing some of the weight across the arms and shoulders, trekking poles can help to reduce fatigue and strain on the legs.

In addition, trekking poles can provide additional stability on uneven or slippery terrain. They can also be used to help push oneself up steep inclines. For overweight hikers, trekking poles can be a valuable tool for helping to make the hike easier and more comfortable.

If you're thinking about giving hiking a try, be sure to invest in a good pair of trekking poles.

They could make all the difference on the trail. Lastly, don’t forget to check our comprehensive guide on the benefits of using walking poles along with a few recommendations. 

Take Time For Recovery

Overweight hikers are more likely to experience joint pain, muscle soreness, and fatigue, so it's important to listen to your body and take breaks as needed.

When you're overweight, every physical activity can be a bit of a challenge. If you've just gone on a hike, your body has probably taken quite a beating. So it's important to give yourself some time to recover afterward.

Here are a few reasons why:

• Your heart is working overtime: carrying all that extra weight means your heart has to work harder to pump blood around your body. That's why it's important to give yourself a little break after a hike, so your heart can recover.
• Your joints are under strain: all that extra weight puts extra strain on your joints, especially if you're not used to hiking. Giving yourself some time to rest will help reduce inflammation and pain.
• You might be dehydrated: even if you drink plenty of water on the hike, you can still become dehydrated. So it's important to rehydrate yourself afterward.
• You might be tired: all that exercise can leave you feeling tired. So it's important to give yourself some time to rest and recover. The muscles in your body will be sore so be sure to devote 5 minutes to foam rolling every day.

We suggest planning active rest days post hiking, by doing cycling, swimming, or light walks.

If you can visit a spa and get a massage to untie those knots in your muscles from hiking. After all, you have rightfully earned it.

Final thoughts

Hiking is a great way to get active, see some amazing sights, and spend time with friends. So, go out and enjoy the trails, mountains, and scenery – just be sure to take the necessary precautions before you head out.

If you’re carrying a few extra pounds, don’t let that stop you from enjoying one of the World’s favorite pastimes. Just be sure to take along plenty of water and snacks, dress appropriately for the weather, and bring along your sense of humor.

Have fun out there!

For more guides read my other posts:

• Camping While Fat and Enjoying it!
• Cot vs Sleeping Pad (what is better?)