Here at KBPT, we know that the simplest forms of exercise are often the best and that’s definitely the case with hiking.
You don’t need any special equipment (just some comfy trainers or hiking boots), you can do it anywhere (well, ideally, in a green space) and it has lots of fantastic health benefits.
So, where are the best places to hike near London? What do you need to know before you go? And how can hiking affect your physical and mental health?
Three hikes near London
Epping Forest Oak Trail – get the tube to Theydon Bois for the start of this 6.6 mile trail through ancient woods that takes you past a deer sanctuary and Iron Age monuments.
Thames Path – we’re not expecting you to hike all 185 miles of the Thames Path but there are lots of amazing shorter itineraries you can follow, such as Tower Bridge to Greenwich and Henley-on-Thames to Windsor.
Seven Sisters Cliff Walk – if you’re looking for something further afield (but still only 1.5 hours by train from London Victoria) and a little more challenging (six hours of ups and downs with steep drops), this coastal walk is the one for you.
Three things to prep for your hike
1. Have a plan – know where you’re going, take a map, make sure your phone is fully charged and pack food and water so you don’t get dehydrated.
2. Wear the right clothes – you don’t need any fancy gear but it’s a good idea to layer up, take a waterproof jacket and wear comfortable trainers or hiking boots (not brand new ones that might give you blisters!).
3. Warm up – to reduce the risk of injury and muscle stiffness, spend 10 minutes stretching before you set off and again when you get back.
Three benefits of hiking
1. It’s good for your heart – by increasing your heart rate during a hike, you could improve your blood pressure, blood sugar levels and cholesterol levels. Hilly walks will force your heart to work even harder.
2. It improves your balance – hiking trails are rarely flat and you’ll often find yourself manoeuvring around and over rocks, plants, streams and other natural obstacles. As your brain learns to process these kinds of movements, your core balance improves.
3. It boosts your mental health – any kind of exercise can have a positive impact on your mood but when you combine it with being outdoors in nature and sunlight, it’s even more powerful. Be mindful of your surroundings, slow down your breathing, and with every step of your hike, you’ll reduce any feelings of stress and anxiety.
Looking for a personal trainer in east London or online?
Contact kate@kbpersonaltraining.co.uk to find out more about KBPT
