Fitness enthusiasts of all ages will, from time to time, need low-impact exercise options. Long-distance runs, 20-mile bicycle rides or weight-lifting in the gym won’t always be the norm. Instead, those looking for ways to keep active must find ways that are age- and skill-appropriate. This can be accomplished through investing in at-home equipment, seeking out the best hiking sticks or signing up for courses that will be filled with like-minded and equally able-bodied individuals. In this article, we’ll explore options that those looking for essential workout options can adopt and keep healthy as a result. Absolute immersion: Walking is arguably the easiest endeavor we can take daily to keep fit. According to the Mayo Clinic, regular brisk walks can help with weight, preventing heart disease, strengthen bones and muscles, improve mood and improve balance as well as coordination. To make this venture possible, it may be wise to invest in the best hiking sticks. The need for this form of assistance isn’t limited to those going on day-long adventures into uncharted territory. Rather, the best hiking sticks can be used to support the avid walker and hiker who wants an extra form of assistance. Sticks worth investing in will have been made in the U.S. and custom-made on a piece-by-piece basis. Since oak, hickory, sassafras, cedar, pine and more are options, users will be able to customize the walking stick that makes low-impact exercise possible. Extracurricular activities: Tens of millions of Americans enjoy the health benefits of yoga. The benefits are both mental and physical and the fact that the supportive environment is also peaceful means that it’s perfect for those looking for an age-appropriate alternative. According to WeightWatchers.com, yoga can help with heart health as well as “increasing both muscle strength and flexibility to aiding in weight-loss efforts and conquering stress.” Local yoga classes are typically held at dedicated studios or evening classes at local schools or community centers. Typically, those who register will have to bring their own mat but that and appropriate exercise attire is all that will be needed. Two-wheel solutions: Bicycle rides do not need to be cross-country adventures. By investing in a bike with comfortable seating and handlebar options will provide for hours of exercise and entertainment. The low-impact exercise can provide vital workouts for calf muscles, knees and the mid-section. With an affordable helmet on your head, the rider can safely traverse local streets and get an hour-long workout without ever having to worry about 100-pound weights at the gym. As an added bonus, the enterprising athlete can bring along the best hiking sticks and explore nature after biking to that destination!
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If you’re going for a hike, especially an extensive one, don’t forget to bring one of the most standard pieces of equipment hikers use—a hiking stick.
It’s easy to see why using a hiking stick is beneficial. They increase your stability and stamina, decrease stress on your back and legs, and provide a useful tool in some emergency situations. But when it comes to finding the best hiking sticks to use, there are certain criteria that you should keep in mind to help you find the right one. Quantity: You’ll want to start your search for the best hiking stick for yourself by choosing whether or not you’d rather use a single or double hiking stick method. Some hikers prefer to have a hiking stick for each hand, while others are perfectly fine with just one. This is truly just a preference but it’s a good starting point when looking to buy a new hiking stick. For those who struggle with balance or have back or leg issues, using two hiking sticks might be the best move. Length: The goal of having a hiking stick that is perfect for you is to have a 90-degree bend at your elbow when the tip of the pole touches the ground. Typically, if you’re under 5-foot tall, use a 39-inch hiking stick; for those who are between 5-foot-1 and 5-foot-7, use a 43-inch hiking stick; for those who are between 5-foot-8 to 5-foot-11, use a 47-inch hiking stick; and for people who are 6-foot or taller, use a 51-inch hiking stick. Features: Finally, it’s time to start looking into the features a hiking stick possesses to see if it truly is the best. Common features for some of the best hiking sticks include adjustability, foldability, and shock absorption. Adjustable hiking sticks generally adjust from about 24 inches to 55 inches long. This is helpful for being able to shorten the stick while going uphill and lengthening it for going downhill. Foldable hiking sticks are perfect for packing and shock absorption is virtually a must for those with an unstable back, hips or knees. |
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