Hiking Safety Steps to Keep on Trail By: UPMC Health Beat

Hiking Safety Steps to Keep on Trail

 By: UPMC Health Beat

Hiking is a terrific activity that opens you up to the wonders of nature and offers a safe cardio workout, provided that you follow some basic safety tips before and during your hike. You must build yourself up physically so that you can meet the challenges of a hike and be equipped with the tools necessary to guard against mishaps and falls that might occur over slippery or treacherous terrain. This article by UPMC Health Beat presents several safety tips for hikers to follow.

Before you embark on that hike consider you present physical fitness. You might consider a visit to your doctor for an examination to ascertain your level of fitness. If the doctor green lights your hike you still must prepare your body for the journey. Your first priority is to build up your physical fitness to meet the demands of a hike on your body-increase stamina and acclimate your muscles and joints to the stress of a hike. Begin a regimen of regular walks that gradually increase in length and intensity. Remember to warm-up before you begin to walk in earnest and do some pre-walk stretching. Supplement your diet with high energy foods such as lean meat, protein and carbohydrates. Research the hiking trail so that you understand the demands of the hike beforehand, then make a plan to deal with these demands. Know beforehand if there are slippery conditions, steep inclines, loose terrain or streams to cross, so that you can be ready when you encounter them. Research the weather conditions you are likely to encounter and determine when darkness will fall. If you have a new pair of hiking shoes, break them in beforehand during your pre-hike walking sessions.

That research you have done is invaluable to informing you of the supplies or equipment you must bring and the clothing you should wear. For example, knowing that you will likely encounter steep inclines and descents or slippery terrain might encourage you to bring a pair of walking poles. Anticipated cold or rainy weather will influence your clothing choices such as a rain jacket. Fill your backpack with emergency supplies. Include a first aid kit, compass and trail map, knife, whistle, energy snacks (trail mix, energy bars or nuts), plenty of water and a flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries.

Remember that there is safety in numbers so it is advisable to hike with a group. Devise a plan for communication to follow in the event that someone is separated from the group or is injured; do not count on your cell phones. After you have completed your hike make sure that you are properly hydrated with water or sports drink and eat a healthy snack. If the hike was a rigorous one, be sure to rest the following day and allow yourself time to recover. If you suffered an injury, seek medical attention if necessary.

When hikers follow the advice in this article, they will drastically increase the chances that their hike will be safe, rejuvenating and enjoyable. We at Wishing Well Outdoors hope that you enjoyed this article by UPMC Health Beat. You may read the full article by clicking here or on the article’s title below the featured image. If you need any new hiking equipment. apparel or accessories, please browse the hiking section of our storefront