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How To Start Hiking: Tips you should know if you're a Beginner


Hiking
Pexels-Pixabay

Hiking is one of the most rewarding and simple outdoor activities to engage in. It is an excellent way to exercise and lose weight, as it provides a great cardiovascular workout while also working out your muscles.


Hiking is a great way to enjoy nature and get some exercise at the same time. It’s also a cost-effective way to spend more time outdoors. In addition, hiking has been shown to have several health benefits.


For example, hiking can lead to decreased blood pressure and decreased stress levels. Hiking can also help improve mental health and cognitive function.


So, how can you start Hiking?


Know your surroundings

One of the first things you should do is make sure you know the trails before you go hiking. The reason for this is for safety purposes. If you don't know what you're doing, it could result in an accident or injury. You should also stick to trails and follow established signs and maps. You should also bring an emergency kit, including an emergency blanket, headlamp, and blister plasters.

Wear Proper hiking Cloths

You should also wear workout clothes designed for hiking. Choose lightweight and breathable fabrics that can keep you dry. A pair of long pants will keep your legs protected from bushes.

For men, a long sleeve shirt will cover your arms and provide protection from the elements. A pair of hiking shoes will make your feet and ankles look better than anything. Always consider the fitness level of other hikers when selecting the proper gear.

Don't carry too much. The first few times you go hiking, try to pick short and easy hikes with little climbing. You can always make a training plan and start by adding a few extra miles to your daily mileage. Be aware of the amount of climbing on the trail before hiking. A flat five-mile hike is very different from the one that's straight uphill. You'll need plenty of energy to finish your hike.

When you first start hiking, make sure you take it easy. Don't carry too much weight, as it will make you fatigued easily. Avoid backpacks for beginners and carry only the essential items. Use fanny packs instead. This way, you can easily carry your phone, water, snacks, money, keys, and any other items you need on your hike.

You should also remember to bring your medical supplies, such as an EpiPen or other medication.

Carry the right equipment

Learn how to carry the right equipment. Hiking is a great way to explore nature. You don't need to be a pro to enjoy the outdoors, but it's important to be safe and aware of your surroundings.

In addition to hiking, you should also bring sunscreen, bug spray, and water. Your health and safety will be improved. If you're hiking alone, you should bring along a headlamp so that you can see your surroundings.

Be Carful of Toxic Plants

Besides hiking, you should also know how to identify poisonous plants. The most common poisonous plants are poison ivy and giant hogweed. These plants can be deadly to hikers and you want to be safe. 

To avoid these plants, learn how to properly break in your footwear and hydrate. You should always keep yourself hydrated and eat properly while hiking. Once you're comfortable, you should be able to hike for hours without any problems.

How To Start Hiking while being Overweight

If you're overweight or obese and you enjoy hiking, there are some useful tips to keep in mind before heading out on your next trail. While it might seem that you'll never be able to compete with the best athletes in the world, hiking is not just for elite athletes. 

By using these tips, overweight and obese hikers can make the most of their outdoor activities. You should also consider getting out on the trail as often as possible, to increase your chances of success.

Start with easier hikes. 

There are plenty of shorter trails that are suitable for overweight people. Another useful tip is to adjust your hiking shoes to fit your feet. It is better to use a lightweight pair of hiking shoes when hiking. These shoes are designed to be more comfortable for the user. You can even purchase special backpacks for the purpose.

Increase the time of hiking gradually. 

You should not increase it by more than 20% at a time. Always write down the time and distance of each hike. This is important for all hikers, but it is essential for the overweight. 

Keeping a journal of your hiking experience will help you stay on track. Once you get a hang of this, it will become easier for you to stay on track and keep motivated to hike longer.

Stay hydrated

it's important to remember to stay hydrated while hiking, especially if you're not used to being active. Here are a few tips for staying hydrated while hiking: 

  • Drink plenty of water before and during your hike. 
  • Bring a water bottle or hydration pack with you on your hike. 
  • Avoid drinking alcohol or caffeine before or during your hike. 

Take as many breaks as needed

One of the most important things to remember is to take breaks as needed. Hiking can be strenuous, and it's important to listen to your body and take a break when needed.  This is because when people are overweight, they have a higher risk of developing joint pain and other health issues that can make hiking more difficult and tiring. Additionally, overweight people may need more time to rest and recover between hikes in order to avoid overexertion.

Get yourself trekking poles

Trekking poles
Pexels-Darina Belonogova

Trekking poles can provide extra stability and balance when hiking, which can be especially helpful for overweight people. By providing extra support, trekking poles can help reduce the amount of stress on the body, which can lead to a more comfortable and safer hike. Additionally, trekking poles can also be used to help with steep climbs and descents, as well as crossing streams or other bodies of water.

Final Thoughts

Hiking is an excellent way to stay fit and enjoy the outdoors. It is a great way to get in shape and explore new areas. I highly recommend hiking to anyone looking for a good workout and outdoor experience.

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