Backpacking requires you to carry 20+ lbs on your back, depending on the number of days you are on the trail, and an essential part of having an enjoyable trip is making sure you are physically ready.  Afterall, you wouldn’t run a marathon without training, right?   Well, the same rings true of backpacking trips and one of the most important areas to strengthen before your trip is your core (abs and back).   And the nice thing about Pilates is when you are working your core, you are also strengthening other parts of your body that you need for your hiking adventure - arms, legs, butt, etc.  So, say goodbye to crunches and situps!

Follow these 8 moves found on Shape.com to help prepare you for your next trip.   Add these exercises to your cardio and strength training routine at least once per week.  As you get stronger the exercises may seem to get easy.  If that happens, change up your pace, add repetitions or add some weight with dumbells, kettle bells or medicine balls.