Comment FHN if you want my free guide: Top 5 Strength Exercises for Hikers! I always recommend starting with forward step-ups — they’re your foundation for stronger climbs and easier descents. You can load them heavier (and progress the weight you use faster), which is what actually signals your body to build stronger muscles, tendons, and connective tissue. That strength then carries over into every direction — your body just handles more stress better. But there’s huge benefit to training in t

Balance strength and stability for hiking: 5 exercises that do double duty