My guy friend told me I should consider backing out because I'm not in the best shape for...

They may be being blunt, but it sounds like its crucial in this situation to be in shape. Otherwise if they hadn't said anything and you ended up going on this hike that ends up being terrible for you and in turn for your friends if you can't keep up, thats not really good is it? Nothing wrong with being out of shape, but your friends are doing you a favor by being honest. Going on a long hike is serious business physically. It sounds like your friend was being honest in the nicest way she could. I would take it as constructive criticism. Hit the gym, get serious about being healthier and more in shape, and plan on going hiking the next time. Unless you feel like you can work out enough before this one in order to take it on. I'm 5'7 and 165 pounds and hiking for several hours isn't exactly easy, especially six, depending on elevation, uphill or downhill. But back to your question. This isn't some simple outing, its a six hour hike so I don't think your friends were exactly wrong for being up front before you get yourself into something you might wish you hadn't. Good luck either way ☺

iQuit · F

best word of advice
get comfy shoes if you do plan on going

never under estimate your inner drive
sometimes you might be out of shape but if your inner voice keeps you motivated to prove them wrong, then you will be surprised how far you can go

remember it's all up to you
and there is no limit to your greatness if you put your mind to it

I hope you the best in whatever you choose :)

windinhishair · 61-69, M

You'd be better served to improve your physical condition and go on future hikes. I've been in your situation in the past on a segment of the Long Trail in Vermont and had to drop out short of ascending Camels Hump. I was able to improve my condition and endurance for future hikes.

UreBesFrend · M

Don't do it. If you are not used to doing this kind of hike, it really F-ing hurts after a while. First you start to get blisters, and the blisters pop and you get blisters on your blisters, and you can't NOT think about these, and your friends are motoring along because they have shoes that are made for it and well broken in. Next your legs start to get tired, and you start to trip on things, and then your whole body gets tired, and you discover you still have a ways to go, meanwhile your friends are rolling their eyes, and huffing about going so slow etc. Lots of pressure to keep up.

If you hike a lot and have the right gear, its easy, but if your a smoker, or out of shape, or think your normal runners will do it, maybe reconsider.

S2dio57 · M

Won’t have time ??? In a month ??
Go walk a few miles a day each day walking a bit faster or find some stairs and walk them up and down for 30-45 mins a day ... you’ll be ready in 2 weeks.
You have to want to do it tho 🤔

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Grasshopper25 · 31-35, M

I had to vote on the honest back out option, even though its obviously your choice also. Don't let your friends honest advice mess with your feelings. Is it rude to tell someone they are out of shape?... eh... depends on the situation. Obviously nobody wants to hear that. If it got to your feelings that much, take your friends advice and instead of getting all upset with her, hit the fucking gym like a boss and show her you mean business and that you'll be on the next hike ☺

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My guy friend told me I should consider backing out because I'm not in the best shape for hiking. Is he right or rude?