In the city, it can be easy to forget what real hiking is like. (Hint: It is not an exercise in climbing subway stairs.)
If you need your memory jogged, take a day trip outside the city, where you should find ambling through throngs of trees rather relaxing -- that is, if your body is ready for it.
"Hiking can be a lot of fun if your legs are in the right shape," says Rob Pella, a trainer at Crunch Fitness.
Personally, I think it's a lot more fun to just get out there, try out the easier, shorter trails and work your way up, but those unfamiliar with mountains, or who have leg injuries might see some benefits in these workouts before hiking.