Are you Hillfit?

If you've read this blog much, you know that I believe we should be physically resilient and capable enough to enjoy life and the activities we love to do. Otherwise, life is not so much life but merely existence. I recently read a great book that resonates with my ideas about fitness and life. It is called Hillfit, by Chris Highcock.


This is a GREAT resource for hiking, hill climbing, and backpacking. But, this book is also a great resource for living in general. Chris wonderfully explains the truth and simplicity of strength training and exercise. Exercise is a means to an end. It should help you do the things you want to do. It should enable your body to adapt and grow stronger so that you can engage in your chosen skill or activity. Exercise itself is not the point. Living and enjoying life are the point. 


Chris says that exercise should be simple, safe, and effective. Period. You don't need equipment or a health club. You don't need to do complicate routines, or perform endless numbers of sets 7 days a week. You simple use your body once  or twice a week and make yourself strong enough to enjoy the things you love to do (hiking for Chris).


Hillfit does a great job explaining the rationale, the science, and the why's of strength training.  The strength training program is based on the 5 basic human movements: the push, pull, squat, hinge, and gait. Again, something I totally resonate with. Hillfit offers a simplistic, minimalist approach to strength training that, if applied consistently, simply works. 


I recently went hiking up at Grandfather Mountain. It was a beautiful and exhilarating experience. I truly felt alive. I remember feeling connected to God and just being so thankful that I was physically able enough to have and enjoy such an experience. It was so wonderful. Chris lives this experience regularly. He knows the magic and beauty that explode when a man (or woman) explores and conquers nature. His passion for hiking and training are evident in this book. If you are looking for another book that highlights the importance of moving, having strength, and enjoying life, this will make a great addition to your library. 


For more information, check out www.Hillfit.com!


Have a great week!


Tim