"Hiking For Fitness"

Hiking can be another option to increase your walking fitness.  If you are tired of walking down the same path of your town or city walk, a change in your walking route could be quite exhilarating.

Why not try some trail hiking instead.  Some may prefer trail walking rather than the usual walking exercise down the street.  Walking along trails makes one appreciate the great outdoors and as you move along you enjoy wildlife, scenery and more. When you enjoy nature, you put aside stress which affects your health.  Instead of dwelling on the negative, you can put positive into action. The wooded areas often have beautiful pathways for you to enjoy.  Most towns have trails that people use all the time to walk or ride their horses.

How to find trails to walk:

If you are not able to find a trail in your town that you know of, you can always talk to someone at the city hall or even maybe go to your local library. They might know of some trails that you can walk. If you live near a state park or national forest, there should be hiking trails there in which you could hike.

Should I consider safety when hiking down trails?

Yes, you should consider safety.  Most parks or trails are safe to walk since it is run by the city. Still, you would need to be careful when trail walking. Trails often have wildlife, including snakes or other dangerous wildlife critters. Keep in mind however that most snakes will not harm you unless you make them feel threatened. However, you do want to consider safety to avoid problems.

If you plan on going on a short day hike, take caution with a bit of thought and planning.  Accidents can happen at times.  If, unfortunately, you miss your footing, have a bad fall and sprain or break your ankle, you'd be in a bad way with no one to help you.  You can't walk on a sprained or broken ankle if you're far from home.

Basic Guidelines for Hiking:

• Don't go hiking alone. You might be begging for trouble if you're in a wilderness area.
• Let somebody know where you're going and when you expect to return.
• Let your 'anchor' person know if you have a change of plan.  It could prevent a lot of inconvenience if people don't know where you are.
• If you do venture for a few days into a remote area - have a survival hiking backpack with sufficient food and water along with appropriate hiking clothing.  A large strong plastic bag in a bright orange color would allow you to shelter inside protecting you from the elements.  If someone is looking for you, the orange bag would easily be spotted.

How to choose hiking equipment: 

There are some things that you need on trail walks.  A hiking stick is optional but could be considered. Hiking or walking sticks are designed to protect you against potential dangers imposed by wildlife, such as snakes. They are also helpful to keep your footing over any rough terrain.

You might want to wear a comfortable pair of hiking boots.  Wearing something thicker than tennis shoes will protect your feet if you should step on a sharp object.  As well, if something was to bite you, such as a snake you will have protection. A hat to keep the hot sun off your head is a good idea. The hat will help prevent possible heat stroke. Some sun block if you are planning being out in the sun too long is another great idea.  Very important - take water along to keep hydrated. 

Walking the trails is good way of getting vitamin D which you get from the sunrays - we all need vitamin D to keep us strong and healthy.

How do I find trail walking equipment?

Any department store usually sells hiking equipment. You can find hiking gear at sports stores, or online. The hiking sticks would likely have to be ordered online.  Sometimes you can find walking sticks at your local mall. On the other hand, maybe a family member has one you can borrow. You can make your own walking stick to save money. Use some wood, preferably the strong tree limbs. Cut off the bark and treat it with something to keep it nice and strong.

Wear appropriate hiking footwear and clothing in the outdoor world.  Take into account all safety precautions and your trail hiking will certainly be a pleasurable way to gain walking fitness.