49 Tips

Hiking Tips

Submitted By: Tom Winlow in Recreation Tips category

Hiking though considered by some as a tedious activity, it actually is a rejuvenating and relaxing activity. When one hikes one can enjoy ones own company and stay connected from within. Hikes help you gather all your thoughts and actions along with staying focussed. The below mentioned Hiking tips will help you stay tuned as to what is required and what is to be avoided in your next hiking trip. Hiking is usually undertaken in mountainous regions, where you could get a regular supply of pure oxygen.

Some worth mentioning hiking tips are as follows:

Before hiking you must make sure that you are physically fit with no medical ailments. Get yourself prepared for your hiking trip by walking regularly well beforehand in order to avoid back problems, stiff legs, knee problems, blisters and cramps.
Before you go hiking, get used to the load you will be carrying, for example the weight you will be carrying on your back.
Equip yourself with good quality hiking gear, like light weight shoes and a hiking stick. Wearing heavy shoes will tire your body even further and make your hiking expedition strenuous.
Remove stones from the shoes and keep your feet well aired. Change wet socks if the shoes get wet. Wet clothing carries more weight than dry clothing.
When you start your hike don’t rush into things, walk slowly and gather pace as you walk.
Don’t let speed bother you; walking slowly is much better than getting sore feet.
If you plan to hike in a group, take care of the person walking the slowest. Some trails are dangerous to be walked alone.
Plan the trip well in advance and know the terrain well. It is advisable to walk on trails which are well marked and visited earlier on.
You must remember when walking uphill the air supply is thin and you may require extra oxygen supply.
Take along first aid and repair kits.
Ensure you carry sun block lotions and sunglasses. The sun is always sharper in the higher regions.
As a safety measure carry whistles and water proof matches. Give a whistle to every member in the group.
Avoid heavy clothing like jeans; it will be much better if you dress in layered clothing which can be removed when required.
Stay hydrated throughout your hike. Drink and carry enough water. Drinking water along the streams could be dangerous to the health.
Phone networks in hilly regions are not considered to be good. Leave your travel plan with someone at home and let them know where exactly you will be. With someone knowing about your whereabouts will definitely keep you and your family at rest.
Pack in energy giving food items like: chocolates, fruits, energy bars and some candy.
Give your hike a break when you get tired and avoid over straining your body.

If your knees are weak get knee support gear along with you. Use your hiking stick while downhill to avoid strain on the knee. You could also cap your knee with ice or cold water to ease knee aches. Carry painkillers along with you.

Respect nature and its surroundings at all times. Make your hiking expedition a pleasurable and relaxing time, with these precautions and safety measures.

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