If you’re new to Munich, you may have noticed mountain sports feature heavily in the weekend activities category. Hiking in the spring and summer is an easy activity to get you out of the city to clear your mind, get in some cardio and work on endurance all while taking in some killer scenery. The sense of accomplishment reaching a peak just can’t be replicated. You can easily see your progress as the towns shrink away into the distance and the only sounds you hear are the birds and the steady thud of your feet hitting the path in front of you. While your heart is pounding and legs are burning you’re not only increasing your overall physical health but your mental health as well. According to a report from the Institute for European Environmental Policy, access to nature reduces depression and obesity.
The trains available from Munich Hauptbahnhof make all kinds of trails, from easy to strenuous, easily accessible to all. And you can enjoy the trails alone or with friends, whether they be two-legged or furry and four-legged. Make sure you pack some water, snacks, some sunscreen and an extra layer and you’re ready to go!
If you’re keen on checking out what these Alps have to offer, my personal favorite is a medium difficulty day-hike from Oberammergau to Puerschling(1566m) and down to the Kolbensattlehuette. From there you can ride an alpine coaster down to the finish. Follow the signs if you want to go all the way, or if you’re a beginner/hiking with small children hike up to the Kolbensattlehuette to look over Oberammergau and enjoy the activities available in the area.
Not sure about hiking alone as a woman? At Evolve Fitness we have created a fitness program for women who are looking to get more fit for the hiking trails, whether here or abroad, by pairing a weekly circuit at our studio with a monthly hike. At the end of each 10-week session, we have a two-day hike where we overnight at one of the mountain huts. The first of our two sessions is already underway and we’ve just done our first hike in the Ammergau Alps. You can find more information on our website evolvefitness.de/trailfit-club.
-Danielle Curzadd
Personal Trainer and Group Fitness Coach at Evolve Fitness
