Last week I took my fitness routine and hiked a mountain road.  This week I went back to explore the “Pigpile Trail” I found while on that hike.  I had a better handle on my HIIT interval trainer app.  It was programmed to perfection this time.  After a short warm-up and stretch I started on the trail.  I had no idea what it would be like.  It turned out to be mostly uphill for my workout phase.

I did three minute walk intervals followed by 30 second work intervals.  When the trail was uphill, I chose exercises such as reverse lunges, side lunges and squats that kept me on the ground. That also applied when I was on uneven or rocky parts of the trail.  When it was flat and smooth, I chose jump rope, ski jumps, jumping jacks and such.  This kept my heart rate elevated for the 35 minutes of my interval workout. I also had to keep an eye out for snakes, bears and other varmints that might cross my path!

When I finished, I turned around and hiked back out.  This was cool down, so I slowed down and enjoyed the view and the absolute quiet of the woods.  Although I was moving, this was pure relaxation for me!  I did take some time to stop and take some pictures of the interesting things I found on the trail.  Like this mushroom..

…and this mystery feather.  Anyone know what kind of bird this is from?

On the way home I stopped to enjoy this beautiful view.

Have you combined nature and your exercise routine?  Tell me about it! I welcome all new ideas to keep me (and others) motivated to work out.