Speed Hiking: The leisurely need not apply

I love walking more than anything else for exercise and fitness, and although I walk pretty fast to get my heart pumping I do also enjoy the fact that it gets me outside with a chance to enjoy the scenery and surroundings. But that isn't for everybody -- some people just want to get out there and get it over with, they want their results faster than fast and the rest doesn't matter.

If this sounds like you (but you aren't a runner) then maybe speed hiking is something you should try. Focused on miles covered and elevation gained (if you're mountain hiking), it's all about time/effort efficiency and getting the most workout bang for your buck. It's a quickly growing flexible subsport, with speed hikers throwing all kinds of different approaches, walking speeds, and even some short jogs into the mix. It's really just up to you.

Be cautious though, as moving quickly over uneven outdoor terrain makes it easy to trip and fall. There's even a term many speed hikers have started using called "foosh," or "fell on outstretched hand."