Speed ​​hiking: This is how turbo hiking works

Speed ​​hiking sounds like a speed-focused sport. Here you can find out what is really behind it and how you can implement speed hiking for yourself.

Speed ​​hiking is a kind of “turbo hiking” with the lightest possible equipment, preferably with poles in demanding terrain in nature. This is neither about Nordic walking nor about trail running. Despite some similarities, speed hiking differs from both in some respects.

In this article, we explain the fundamental differences between the three comparable sports. You will also find out what equipment you need for speed hiking, what advantages it brings you and how you can best use it.

Speed ​​hiking: differentiation from trail running and Nordic walking

trail running takes place at a consistently fast pace and is usually limited in time or designed for a specific route. Sporty comparisons, certain running times and high speeds determine trail running. In addition, trail runners are usually alone. In this sport, sporting success is clearly in the foreground. Equipment is kept to a minimum for trail running. Most trail runners only carry functional clothing, a small running backpack and a drinking bottle.

At the Speed ​​hiking however, there are no time limits. Any stage length is conceivable. Both the evening tour on the local mountain and the multi-day mountain tour with overnight stays in a hut in the high mountains can be speed hiking. Running time, running speed and sporting comparisons do not play a major role here. Basically, the running speed is higher than with normal hiking, but not nearly as fast as with trail running. Breaks and the experience in groups are also part of speed hiking. Time to linger, enjoy nature and get to know your body and push it to the limit is the top priority here. Sticks are often used to support walking.

Sticks are also part of the Nordic walking to. But the difference to this type of sport lies in the terrain: Nordic walking is mostly done on flat terrain and at a slow pace.

Equipment for speed hiking

With the right equipment, you are not only optimally equipped for speed hiking, but it is also more fun.

You need the following basic equipment:

• Sluggish sports shoes with a good, grippy profile, suitable for example running shoes. Good shoes pay off, especially on difficult terrain, because they give you a better grip. Also make sure to choose light shoes. This is how you run faster. usual walking boots are often very difficult.
• pick up close-fitting and breathable clothing back, which is versatile. Jackets and trousers with detachable sleeves are ideal. This allows you to adapt your clothing to the weather. Softshell materials give you optimal protection from the rain.
• A lightweight running backpack saves you unnecessary weight. In addition, special running backpacks are usually made of soft material and adapt to your body. This protects your back. Good ventilation and moisture wicking on the back is also an advantage.
• sticks with a hand strap support you when walking uphill. This increases your driving force. In addition, the poles support your balance in difficult terrain, protect your knees when descending and are a good training companion for your upper body. Pay attention to the weight of the sticks. The rule is: the lighter, the better.

Special equipment on top:

• From a big one Drinking bottle with hose you can drink liquid quickly and easily. Make sure the drinking bottle is big enough to have enough liquid with you.
• Depending on where you are traveling and how well you know your way around, there are also one map or a GPS device helpful.
• With a sports watch you can monitor your heart rate.

Basically, of course, the following applies: Adapt your equipment to the respective season, the weather conditions and the terrain. In addition, sufficient liquid, sun protection, food and energy snacks should always be in your backpack. Plan your luggage carefully. Not too much and not too little.

If you value sustainability when buying your speed hiking equipment, you will find it in our guide sustainable hiking accessories Further information.

Advantages of speed hiking

Speed ​​hiking united cardio, strength workout and relaxation in nature. By walking with your sticks on different terrain, you use and train many muscle groups at the same time and protect your joints in the process. Speed ​​hiking is a comprehensive workout, which engages your leg muscles, upper body and core muscles.

Depending on the length of the route and your pace, you also train yours compared to hiking endurance and your cardiovascular system stronger.

With more demanding tours and an increase in speed, you can adapt to your own own limit bring and yours leave your comfort zone.

This is how you can do speed hiking

In principle it can everyone Do speed hiking because the running speed can be determined individually. In addition, it is a sport without much effort.

Depending on your physical condition, you should approach it slowly and adapt to the requirement profile of the respective route. In order not to damage the body, as a beginner you should not plan any multi-day tours in the high Alps at the beginning. You should not underestimate difficult terrain, long distances and large differences in altitude.

Where can you go speed hiking now?

Everywhere in nature! At the beginning, small hiking spots in your area are enough. The more practiced you become and the better you can assess your ability, the higher, longer and more difficult you can make your tour. When planning a tour, you can hiking app help. There you will find technical data such as the number of kilometers, meters in altitude, description of the route or the expected duration. Germany also offers a wide range of popular ones long-distance hiking trails, which are ideal for speed hiking.

Beginners: Low mountain ranges, small hiking routes and short tours are quite sufficient to become familiar with the new sport.

professionals: Alpine high mountains with challenging terrain is possible. The program ranges from intensive day tours to multi-day tours to long-distance hiking

The most important thing when speed hiking: Forget your everyday life, enjoy nature and leave your comfort zone.

Read more on Techzle.com:

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