Latest news with #AmericanHikingSociety
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Business Standard
2 days ago
- Health
- Business Standard
For better workout, body balance, and joint relief, walk with hiking poles
Ashley Hawke was originally a skeptic of trekking poles. But after twisting an ankle on a tree root while descending a hill during a 2015 backpacking trip, she tried a pair. 'I couldn't believe how much easier hiking felt, especially while wearing a 40-pound pack,' Ms. Hawke, now 30, said. 'I used to think they were just for older people. Now I tell everyone I know to use them.' As a Ph.D. candidate in integrative physiology, Ms. Hawke did a meta-analysis, scouring 40 years of research into hiking poles. There weren't many papers, but the ones she found showed that using them often improved balance, took weight off the legs, made hiking feel easier and led to fewer sore muscles. Other small studies suggest poles can make hiking gentler on your joints and can boost the cardiovascular benefit of walking. In other words, you don't need to be a long-distance backpacker — or a senior — to benefit from using trekking poles. Why use walking poles? Put simply, poles can help you walk easier, faster and farther. One small study found that walking with poles increased the amount of oxygen and calories subjects used by more than 20 per cent. This is one big reason Aaron Baggish, a cardiologist with the University of Lausanne in Switzerland, often recommends them to patients of all ages, especially those with limited mobility. 'Poles will allow you to get fitter, faster, because it's a full body workout,' he said. If you regularly head outdoors onto dirt trails, poles can also help pull yourself uphill and protect your joints going downhill. Sharon Caputo, 55, who lives in Syracuse, N.Y., has climbed all 46 of the high peaks in the Adirondack Mountains, and used poles during each climb. Ms. Caputo also finds the poles helpful for balance when walking through water, in deep mud or when moving from one rock to another. Pick your pole Consider whether you'll use your poles for Nordic walking or hiking. Nordic poles are better on flatter, smoother surfaces and involve a single piece with more elaborate straps attached at the grip, which keeps the poles close to your hands. This allows you to more easily push yourself forward. For hikes on undulating dirt trails or up mountains, lightweight, collapsible trekking poles are better, because they're easier to pack, said Maggie Peikon, manager of communications at the American Hiking Society. Look for easy adjustability so that you can change lengths on the fly. Also decide which type of grip you like: foam, rubber or cork, which tends to be grippier, even when it's wet. Ms. Caputo varies the length of her poles on every hike. 'On the way down, I like them a little longer to help with bigger drop-offs,' she said. 'On the way up, if I need to use my hands to scramble, I fold them down.' Also consider the pole's tip — on dry, paved trails or sidewalks, a rubber tip is best. If you're heading onto a dirt path, or if there's snow or ice, a metal tip provides greater stability (though the metal can sometimes damage rocks). You'll want to learn how to adjust and use your wrist straps, too. Grip the handle and make sure the strap is resting snugly but comfortably around the back of your wrist. If not, play around with the adjustments until you find your sweet spot. You can also bring your poles to a physical therapist to find the setup that works for your body, Dr. Baggish said. Find your technique The classic position for any pole — Nordic or trekking — is straight down, so that your arms are parallel with the ground and your elbows are bent at a 90-degree angle. In this position, your arms can help to power your movement. Don't let the poles alter how you walk or hike. 'The poles shouldn't change your natural walking rhythm,' Ms. Peikon said. 'It should feel intuitive to use them, not a hindrance to your natural cadence.' Try to consciously engage your arms and shoulders. Focus on pushing down to propel yourself forward. Hiking downhill won't be as much of a push motion, but rather a stabilising plant, Ms. Peikon said. Do your best to maintain an upright posture, never hunching over your poles. 'It may feel awkward to use them at first,' said Ms. Peikon, 'which is why practicing with them on flat, level terrain is best.' You can also play around with using one pole or two. Ms. Peikon prefers one: 'If I have a misstep, I like having a hand free to catch myself,' she said. In the end, how you use them comes down to preference — don't overthink it and don't overspend, Ms. Hawke said. 'Sometimes, the random hiking stick you find on the side of the trail works just fine, too.'
New York Post
4 days ago
- Business
- New York Post
Wearable tech hits the trails: Hypershell will gift 30 exoskeletons on National Trails Day
New York Post may receive revenue from affiliate and advertising partnerships for sharing this content and/or when you make a purchase. Park rangers across America are about to power up, all thanks to a first-of-its-kind partnership with the brand that developed one of the world's first wearable exoskeletons. Leading robotics company, Hypershell, announced that it will donate 30 of its Hypershell Pro X units to the American Hiking Society to celebrate National Trails Day on June 7. The contribution marks a unique opportunity to bring the benefits of wearable technology into the depths of nature. Maintaining over 250,000 miles of public trails is not an easy feat — it requires funding, time, labor, and equipment. In honor of National Trails Day, these exoskeletons will be deployed to park volunteers across the country, assisting as the experts carry out demanding repairs in rugged environments. Advertisement 'For nearly 50 years, the American Hiking Society has worked to protect and expand access to trails for all communities. Our partnership with Hypershell reflects a bold, shared vision: to break down barriers and reimagine what's possible,' said Heather Klein Olson, executive director of the American Hiking Society. Hypershell's lightweight, AI-powered wearable exoskeletons are designed to offset bodyweight, enhance movement, and reduce effort for outdoor activities and daily endurance. For people who spend all day trekking through rough terrain, these suits can help them go the extra mile. The public will also be able to take this wearable tech for a test ride, and new members who join the American Hiking Society will also earn a $20 coupon at Hypershell and will be automatically entered to win a free Hypershell Pro X. Or, you can secure one yourself right from Hypershell's website, if you're willing to drop a little over $1000. Hypershell Inspired by the Japanese cyberpunk show 'Ghost in the Shell', the Hypershell Pro X debuted in 2024 with a bold goal: to redefine human limits with AI-driven, horsepower-backed wearable technology. The exoskeleton fuses durable carbon fiber with precision torque construction, all guided by an AI-based motion engine that tells the machine how to move to amplify the body's range and mobility. The more it's used, the better it adapts to walking, running, and climbing styles. It's not exactly rocket science, but it does feel like something from the future, according to many lucky people who've had the opportunity to strap one on. Mass production only just began, but these exoskeletons have already generated exceptional press and positive reviews from adventurers, seniors, those with mobility issues, and even individuals recovering from spinal cord injuries. 'Hypershell was founded on the belief that technology should expand the boundaries of human movement, especially in the wild,' Kevin Sun, Founder and CEO of Hypershell, explained in a press release. The overarching initiative of the American Hiking Society is to protect the places that people love to explore, and Hypershell hopes to support people as they work tirelessly to carry out that mission. 'Our mission aligns deeply with that of the American Hiking Society, which has been the national voice for America's hikers for nearly 50 years. We're honored to stand with them in promoting access, adventure, and stewardship on the trails,' he continued. This year, Hypershell will be joining park volunteers at the Tahoe Rim Trail project, lending support near one of the nation's most scenic routes, the Big Meadow Trailhead in Lake Tahoe, California. The team will help forge a new highway crossing route, improving safety and accessibility for all hikers. How exactly will Hypershell help volunteers? According to the brand, the exoskeleton vessel can potentially increase leg strength by 40% and reduce physical exertion by 30%, empowering participants to stay on their feet for longer and work harder as they complete this challenging project. As well as assisting seasoned trail stewards, regular attendees will also have a chance to slip on the Hypershell Pro X themselves and discover the power of wearable technology firsthand. Whether it's clearing brush, transporting equipment, or simply soaking in the surroundings, this type of innovative technology harnesses the power to make the outdoors more accessible than ever before — and only time will tell where — and how far humans can take it. This article was written by Miska Salemann, New York Post Commerce Writer/Reporter. As a health-forward member of Gen Z, Miska seeks out experts to weigh in on the benefits, safety and designs of both trending and tried-and-true fitness equipment, workout clothing, dietary supplements and more. Taking matters into her own hands, Miska intrepidly tests wellness products, ranging from Bryan Johnson's Blueprint Longevity Mix to home gym elliptical machines to Jennifer Aniston's favorite workout platform – often with her adorable one-year old daughter by her side. Before joining The Post, Miska covered lifestyle and consumer topics for the U.S. Sun and The Cannon Beach Gazette. Looking for a headline-worthy haul? Keep shopping Post Wanted.
Dominion Post
5 days ago
- Dominion Post
An outdoor holiday: Celebrate National Trails Day
MORGANTOWN — Lace up your hiking boots and grab a water bottle. Saturday is National Trails Day, a celebration of nature, history and community. Whether a beginner looking for a leisurely stroll or a seasoned hiker, there are plenty of options to help make the most of this day for the outdoors. National Trails Day, organized annually by the American Hiking Society, shines a spotlight on the thousands of miles of trails maintained by federal, state and local agencies. According to the American Hiking Society, it's an opportunity to 'create community and connect with the people in your area who share your love of being outside.' Day trips History buffs will enjoy a National Trails Day hike at Tygart Lake State Park . Starting at 10 a.m. Saturday, participants will hike out to the dam while learning about the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the location's history and the mission behind the park's development. For a bit of a longer drive, Blackwater Falls State Park is hosting a guided hike beginning at 10 a.m. Meet a park naturalist in the lodge lobby for an interpretive hike covering portions of three different trails. This family-friendly hike is less than two miles long and winds through forests of conifers and northern hardwoods, offering a glimpse at mountain holly, serviceberry, and other native plants — and possibly some wildlife. Staying local Closer to home, there are still plenty of ways to celebrate the day. Morgantown offers a range of accessible and scenic trails. The Mon River Rail-Trail is a beautiful paved, multi-use pathway perfect for walking, running or biking. Coopers Rock State Forest is just a short drive away and offers everything from a breathtaking scenic overlook to hikes and backwoods adventures. The West Virginia Land Trust does not have anything planned this weekend, but 'If you are looking for something to do, the West Virginia Land Trust has nine nature preserves open to the public,' said Jessica Spatafore, director of marketing and communication. Toms Run Nature Preserve in Morgantown is a WVLT property that many consider to be a beautiful local gem.
Gizmodo
5 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Gizmodo
To mark National Trails Day, you can try out a Hypershell X – the outdoor exoskeleton for everyone
You may have seen exoskeletons deployed for military, scientific, or medical use, but the X series from Hypershell is different: It's designed for anyone to use, to go farther and for longer with bionic assistance, on hikes and other outdoor adventures. Our own Kyle Barr has tried the Hypershell Pro X, and was impressed. An X exoskeleton will ordinarily set you back $1,000 or above, but Hypershell is partnering with the American Hiking Society (AHS) to mark National Trails Day on June 7, 2025. For the occasion, 30 Hypershell Pro X devices will be distributed to 10 hiking sites, where they can be tested by volunteers and walkers. Enter Now to Win a Hypershell Exoskeleton 'Hypershell was founded on the belief that technology should expand the boundaries of human movement, especially in the wild,' says Kelvin Sun, the founder and CEO of Hypershell. 'Our mission aligns deeply with that of the American Hiking Society, which has been the national voice for America's hikers for nearly 50 years. We're honored to stand with them in promoting access, adventure, and stewardship on the trails.' The Hypershell X The Hypershell X is a piece of outdoor gear quite unlike any other: The exoskeleton fits to your back, around your waist, and attaches to your legs. It then puts you on cheat mode as far as hiking goes, giving you faster speeds and extending your stamina—you can use it to complete walks you might not otherwise attempt, or to finish routes you can tackle in a faster time. For the hiking beginner, it gives you the confidence to get out on the trail. For the hiking expert, it levels up what you're capable of. For younger walkers, it can add years on, and for older walkers, it can take years off. The exoskeleton is there to help you move farther, stronger, and smarter, and it's designed to fit seamlessly into the way you move. You've got three models to choose from: The Go X, the Pro X, and the Carbon X. They offer increasing levels of performance and power, with Hypershell promising they'll give you up to 40 percent more leg strength and equal up to 30 percent less physical exertion. It can offset up to 30 kilograms or 66 pounds of weight, while battery range is good for up to 17.5 kilometers or almost 11 miles. The weight of the Hypershell X exoskeleton itself is a mere 2 kilograms or 4.4 pounds, or a little less if you go for the carbon fiber and titanium option—so it's definitely not going to weigh you down. As well as walking, because of its lightweight and unobtrusive nature, it's also suitable for running and cycling. Enter Now to Win a Hypershell Exoskeleton Underpinning everything is an AI MotionEngine, programmed to adapt in real time to your movement. Based on inputs from more than a dozen sensors, it figures out your next step, and then provides assistance to propel you forward. It's personalized too, so it learns your walking gait over time, and should feel more natural the more you use it. You wear the battery on your back, rucksack style, and when you're not using your Hypershell X it folds right down too for easy transport. With the battery weighing in at 400 grams or 0.88 pounds, you can easily pack spares too—giving you even more range across several hikes or several days. The exoskeleton offers quite a bit of control over how much assistance it actually gives you, and you've got three different modes of operation to choose between, to balance battery life and performance. What's more, it's IP54 rated, and can work in conditions as cold as -10 degrees Celsius (that's 14 degrees Fahrenheit). In our review, Kyle described the Pro X model as being easy to use, comfortable to wear, and effective at helping you to walk further with less effort. There are 'plenty of people who can benefit from this device' he concluded—including not just experienced hikers but those who are less likely to go walking due to inability, injury, or age. Enter Now to Win a Hypershell Exoskeleton The Hypershell X is an award-winner too: It picked up an Innovation Award as part of CES 2025, with its 'revolutionary and ultra-light ergonomic design' singled out for special praise. Exoskeletons are no longer the stuff of science fiction, the super-rich, or the army—and you might start to see them much more often on your hiking trails. National Trails Day Hypershell's partnership with the AHS is about making hiking more accessible, to everyone—people of any age, of all abilities. Those who might otherwise have considered getting out on the trail beyond them can take on the challenge, while experienced walkers can get a synthetic boost to their natural abilities. National Trails Day is the signature annual event of the AHS, and this year it falls on Saturday, June 7. The idea behind the event is to encourage people to get active outdoors, to connect with other members of their community, and perhaps to give something back to the trails in terms of tidying up a route and leaving it in a better condition than when you found it. You can find out more about National Trails Day here, and look up events happening in your local area. Typically, tens of thousands of people across the US get together for the day, advocating for public lands and trails, and enjoying some of the majestic splendor offered by the natural landscape all around us. These goals and passions fit in neatly with Hypershell and its X exoskeleton of course, and as part of National Trails Day this year, Hypershell will be at the Tahoe Rim Trail project near Big Meadow Trailhead in Lake Tahoe, California. The aim of the day is to introduce a new highway crossing reroute, which will improve hiker safety and mean a better overall experience for anyone using the route. Anyone attending the project event will have the chance to try on the Hypershell Pro X and take advantage of all the benefits it brings: Reducing strain and extending endurance, and from there supporting the admirable work being put into trail maintenance during this special day of outdoor gatherings. Enter Now to Win a Hypershell Exoskeleton Just turn up on the day to get involved and see if an exoskeleton could be the upgrade for you. You can get more information on all of this from the official Hypershell website, or the official American Hiking Society website—both have plenty of resources and plenty of information for you to check out, and there are gear giveaways you can take part in too.
