Going up the Incline

Hey Lemon8 fam! So many of you have been curious about getting that amazing 'perky lift' feeling, especially around Denver. Well, let me tell you, I found my ultimate secret weapon right here: tackling The Incline! When I first heard about people talking about a "perkylift" workout in the Denver area, my mind immediately went to this epic climb. And after experiencing it myself, I totally get why it’s linked. For those who haven't heard of it, The Incline is an old railway bed turned into a grueling, nearly vertical staircase hike in Manitou Springs, just an hour's drive from Denver. It's 2,744 steps that rise over 2,000 feet in less than a mile. Trust me, it's a leg and glute workout like no other! When you're pushing yourself up those steps, you're literally lifting your entire body weight, step by challenging step. This isn't just a walk; it's a full-body engagement, especially targeting your core, quads, hamstrings, and glutes. The kind of sustained effort you put in here? That's exactly how you get that natural, athletic "perky lift" in your physique. But it's not just about the physical lift. There's a massive mental "perky lift" too! Each step you take is a mental victory. When you reach the top, gasping for air but with that incredible panoramic view of Colorado Springs and the plains stretching out before you, your spirits just soar. It's an unparalleled sense of accomplishment that truly perks you up from the inside out. I remember feeling absolutely exhausted but incredibly invigorated and proud. That feeling of conquering something so challenging is addictive! If you're in the Denver area and looking for a real fitness challenge that delivers on that "perkylift" promise, here are my top tips for tackling The Incline: Start Early: Parking can be tough, and the sun gets intense. An early start means cooler temps and fewer crowds. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: Bring more water than you think you'll need. Seriously. Pace Yourself: It's not a race (unless you want it to be!). Find a rhythm that works for you. Take breaks. There are markers every few hundred steps, which can be great for setting small goals. Proper Footwear: Good hiking shoes with ankle support are a must. The steps are uneven. Listen to Your Body: It's a tough one. If you feel dizzy or overly fatigued, rest or turn back. Safety first! Enjoy the Views: Don't forget to pause and take in the scenery. The reward is well worth the effort. After your "perky lift" workout on The Incline, you can take the Barr Trail down, which is a much gentler descent through the trees. It’s a great way to cool down and give your knees a break. Trust me, your legs will feel it the next day, but that feeling of accomplishment and the physical benefits are totally worth every single step. For anyone in Denver seeking an authentic, challenging workout that leaves you feeling strong, lifted, and full of energy, you absolutely have to add The Incline to your list. It’s more than just a hike; it’s an experience that truly gives you a "perkylift"!