Camping, hiking and the outdoors are for everybody, young or old. Being out in nature provides lots of health advantages to all of us; that is why it’s no surprise that many older adults see the charm of hiking to stay active and healthy.
Follow these vital hiking safety tips for active seniors before going out and while on the trail!
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Plan your trip safely and wisely
The most vital factor to contemplate before taking a hike is whether or not you are physically prepared. You probably want to consult your doctor beforehand, even though you are active.
When it involves packing, the lighter your pack, the better it’ll be for you. Bring only the necessities like water (at least a pair of litres), snacks, protein bars, trail mix, bright coloured rain jacket, whistle, aid kit with medications, your cellphone and other socks.
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Start with short hikes
Choose a path that applies to you. Begin with a 30-minute hike and see however you’re feeling when. As you gain a lot of expertise and strength, you’ll be able to select longer walks and a lot of challenging trails.
Plan to walk in the early morning or the afternoon once it is not too hot out. Make sure to travel with a bunch or a guide.
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Dress right
You would wish to be as comfy as possible once it involves clothing because you’ll sweat tons. Dress in lightweight layers that are straightforward to feature or strip off just in case the temperature changes. Avoid cotton and choose moisture-wicking materials.
Depending on the ground of your trail, wear a decent try of hiking boots or a durable try of rubber shoes.
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Don’t forget to stretch
Stretching and doing some basic preparation exercises is crucial for anyone hiking, no matter what age. Even though you think that the path is simple, ne’er skip this step.
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Move at your own pace
Hiking isn’t a race – your sole goal is to enjoy the scenery and reach the tip of the path at your own pace. Don’t fret if you are slower than everybody else; rest if you need to, and don’t hesitate to inform your cluster leader of any issues.
Just as long as you get pleasure from yourself and you end the hike safely, all is good!
Don’t forget that your safety must always be your prime priority. Follow these vital hiking tips for active seniors, and you are sure to have a fantastic time!
Read our blog on 30 Reasons Why South Africa’s Wild Coast Is the Best Place in the World to Be a Backpacker
