The Benefits Of Hiking

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Experiencing a Great Hike - Tips for a Novice or Beginner

If you are planning to take a hike for the first time, there are several things you may want to do to ensure a pleasant and safe hiking experience. These are techniques that all hikers do, whether they are a novice or more experienced. If you follow them, you will ensure that you are well prepared and get the most out of your hiking experience. Hiking is a lot like walking, except when you hike, you will be going over different levels of terrain, like going up and down steep hills or climbing rocks. Listed below are a few techniques on body mechanics to ensure you have the proper form.

Head: When hiking, you should look straight ahead of you. You will want to look at least 20 feet in front of you so you know what's coming up on your path. You want to be aware of any rocks, twigs, or holes in the path so you don't trip and hurt yourself. You especially want to be aware of your surrounding on multilevel paths so you can adjust your speed and balance in specific areas. Maintain an upright head position because if you lean forward, you will put strain on your neck and shoulder muscles.

Arms: When hiking, arms should remain close to your body and not be swinging way out. Aim to have your arms swing from front to back in front of your body. However, when you …show more content…

If you feet begin to hurt, this may prevent you from completing your hike or shortening it. “It is best to know the specific or varied environments in which the hiking will be conducted, this will allow you to select a pair of boots that are appropriate for the conditions.” 1 You will want to have a warm hiking boot that is water resistant for hiking in colder environments; you will want to have a lightweight breathable boot in warmer climates so that your feet do not perspire and blister

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