With trees and flowers starting to blossom, spring is slowly but surely making its way into our lives. You know what that means; it’s time to think about your summer body, but with your lazy ass that’s been hibernating since last fall, it can be difficult to get the courage to start working out right away.

Before you go out to the gym to grab those plates and pump iron like a mad man and injury yourself, there are several cautions and tips you should be aware of. Much like a majority of guys that have been procrastinating for God-knows-how-long, it would be unwise to jump right into a work out routine, so why not start with some outdoor activities that are appropriate for the spring to jump start your body again?

An easy way to get your body moving is by going for a hike. It’s a simple way to get some cardio into your routine while also strengthening your lower body. With consistency, you will be able to increase your cardiovascular endurance, reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases and osteoporosis, while also enhancing your muscle strength. More than that, it can be a relaxing time away from the daily grind as you trek through the rejuvenating wilderness.

There are some safety precautions to be aware of prior to heading out though. The drastic changes in temperatures during this time of year means that need you to be more aware of your body’s condition. Always remember to dress in layers, since changes in elevation may cause temperatures to fluctuate throughout the day. Furthermore, especially for beginners, it’s important to understand your body and choose a course that is right for you. If you’re the type of person that has shunned any outdoor activity for more than half a year, remember to take it easy by choosing a trail that you can hike within a couple of hours. For those that have been more diligent and active, it may be worth tackling a three to five hour course. No matter what your comfort level may be, remember to eat well before and allocate about an hour or two to fully digest your food before heading out.

As important as it is to know how to handle yourself on the hike, it’s also important to remember to stretch afterwards. This will assure that your body allows itself to stabilize and recover, while accelerating the recovery of lactic acid, various hormones, and core energy. Stretching also prevents muscle fatigue and tightness, which will make your life much easier instead of finding ourself making involuntary noises at the slightest of movements. If you have the time afterwards, try to ease your body into a nice hot bath, which will improve your blood circulation, boost your immune system, reduce muscle pain, and shorten the process of recovery from fatigue.

Now that you’ve got the basics down, why not get off of your lazy ass and enjoy the great outdoors with a nice hike?