For the last month or so, all I've been doing is raving about Nike Hill and how it's done wonders for my conditioning, especially cardio. Well, I think that it's time that I reveal this hidden cardio treasure to my readers. Fellas, I can't begin to tell you how challenging and mentally trying hiking up this hill is, so I've decided to take you on a hike with me. But, before we go on our walk, I think you need a little more information about my latest workout gem.
During the Cold War, the US military built many Nike Missile installations to protect key cities as a last line of defense against air attacks. These now decommissioned missile launch sites surround LA, as shown on this map. I just think that it's really ironic that one of these sites would later become part of my college.
I've heard about this infamous hill since I've been working here because many of my students would tell me about the killer hike they had to do for the final exam in their walking class. I had one student tell me that many of his classmates couldn't make it to the top of this 2.5 mile zig-zagging road that continued to climb until you reach the very top.
A little more than a month ago, I was reminded about Nike Hill from a co-worker, and I set out to conquer this hill. My first experience with Nike Hill was brutal. I had no idea the types of inclines I was going to be dealing with, so I had my 20lb weighted vest strapped on for the ride. Little did I know that I would barely make it to the top. The next day, I was completely wiped out, but couldn't wait until I was ready to try and climb the hill again.
Since then, I've dropped the weighted vest (for now) and hike up the hill and jog down. Each trip I take up the hill, the stronger I can feel my legs getting; however, to reach the very top is still a heart-pounding event and one that I look forward to every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday!
I keep trying to explain to folks how steep these hills are, but it's hard to imagine unless you've walked the trail. So, I thought that I would do the next best thing: present a slide show. I hope that the captions and pictures are enough to give you an idea of the kick ass workout I get hiking this trail four days a week.
Hey, if you pay close attention to the shots right before I get to the top, you just might hear me grunting as I slowly jog up the last hill. ;)
Monday, October 22, 2007
Nike Hill: A Hidden Cardio Treasure!
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
4 comments:
Reminds me of Runyon Canyon in LA. I go back there for a few round trips whenever I make it back to LA. Walk up and jog down 2 or 3 times. The only time I thought I was going to die was when Jillian had us jogging this beast. Good HIIT workout.
Thanks for your comment bro, and yeah I can see Jillian "beating" you guys all the way up the hill. It's brutal, but the sense of accomplishment you feel once you're at the top is great!
Looked all over Google to find out how to get there and could not find anyting. Do you mind posting a google map and/or directions to the site? Sounds like a killer !
I just put a google map under the slide show for you. Just make sure to take North Drive and follow the signs leading to the Police Academy. Let me know how your hike goes . . .
Post a Comment