I've got hills -- seven of them in my neighborhood, and I often truck up and down each one for exercise. I've never given much thought to how exactly I move up and down my inclines but apparently, I should.

According to the Family Circle fitness folks, we shouldn't barrel up inclines as fast as possible. Instead, we should shorten our strides and focus on maintaining an easy and constant pace. On the way down, we should elongate our strides, while keeping core and leg muscles engaged. We'll gain energy this way, which will help propel us forward.

Good tips. I'm going to try them next time I hike up and down my hills. And you?

For guidance on how to approach a treadmill incline, read on here.