Getting In Shape
These hikes can be a fun way to get in shape or stay in shape, however any sensible exercise program requires regular exercise all week, not just on weekends. A walk around the neighborhood, mall, or woods for an hour each day is usually considered good exercise. You need to enjoy exercising, not by convincing yourself that it is fun, but by doing some activity that you really enjoy. The primary goal of these hikes is fun, not exercise, though you will certainly derive the latter.

No Pain, No Gain?
Soreness or stiffness after a hike does not mean that you had a good workout. It means you overdid it. This is not healthy because now you must recover before continuing. Smart training on the other hand is a controlled thoughtful way to get into shape without injury and setbacks. Recovery time is minimal or non-existent. Only at an actual event does an athlete put out 100%. The only time I was ever sore was after a race, not during the training period. The 'No Pain, No Gain' idea is the opposite of what every athlete and exerciser needs.