Hands up who has ever felt intimidated in a group exercise setting? We’re guessing that’s almost all of us. No matter what your fitness levels are, it’s almost impossible to avoid feeling that we’re not quite fit enough or strong enough for some mainstream workout trends.

But good news comes via the latest viral fitness trend: soft hiking. Racking up over 120 million views on TikTok since the term was coined by Lucy and Emily, aka @softgirlswhohike, soft hiking has reframed a hike (off-putting for some) as, basically, any type of outdoor walking. 

What is soft hiking?

Exactly what it says on the tin. Hiking – but make it soft – ie whatever you want. A sunny stroll through the woods with your best mate on your lunchbreak. A wander round your local park, complete with resting at all of the benches? It’s soft hiking.

The point is that there are no rules – Lucy and Emily want to show people that you don’t have to be a seasoned hiker to enjoy walking in the great outdoors. The main thing is to move your body in nature – and have fun while doing it.

And it’s definitely struck a chord, as the comments show. One comment enthuses “soft hiking is a whole vibe” while others say that they’ve never enjoyed hiking but they love walking – proving it really is just the semantics that are putting people off trying it. 

What are the benefits of soft hiking? 

Despite its slow, easy nature, there are tangible benefits to soft hiking. Firstly, it’s always outdoors – and we know that working out in nature has many advantages over an indoor session. Studies show that walking in nature can reduce stress and increase feelings of relaxation and revitalisation, while research also shows that having the “distractive stimulus” of natural surroundings can reduce our perceived exertion. Put simply: when we’re outside, everything feels easier.

Plus, at this time of year there’s even a chance of boosting our vitamin D levels, should the sun decide to make an appearance. 

Walking is having a moment. It’s one of the easiest ways to boost fitness.it’s totally free and almost anyone can do it. Research shows that a mere 11 minutes of brisk daily walking could prevent 10% of premature deaths, while some studies claim that walking can be as beneficial to heart health as running.

So even if a short lunchtime stroll is all you feel like, you can rest assured that you’re boosting your mental and physical health simply by putting one foot in front of the other.

Soft hiking is accessible and inclusive

Unlike so many fitness trends, one of the main reasons soft hiking has exploded in popularity seems to be how accessible it is.

Lucy and Emily came up with the idea after feeling that they weren’t “good enough, strong enough or fit enough” when out hiking with seasoned hiking groups – something they’re at pains to dispel with their mindful, relaxed approach.

In fact, stopping to have a snack, a rest or simply take in your surroundings is all part of the process.

“Soft hiking is about the pure joy of spending time in nature and moving your body,” they say. “Take some time to go off trail and be present in the moment – there’s no need to rush.”

Of course, if you want to run up steep hills in your spare time, you do you. But if an all-out sweat sesh isn’t your bag, you can still relish the feeling of being outdoors in the fresh air. And if that means a trip to the high street for some new athleisure wear, we’re not stopping you. 

Images: Getty