Tips for Hiking Comfortably
If a characteristic of hiking is “watching where you put your foot,” I am definitely a Walker and no way a Hiker. I’m much to busy looking all around to be worrying about where my feet land. And, yes, my walking sticks have saved me from numerous disasters. Anyway, IMHO, hiking is for sweet young things with buff bodies and trim legs, not for an old chubby broad like me with jiggling thighs.
Walking is my preferred form of exercise, especially when we are on the road. Thirty to sixty minutes (one to two miles minimum) of walking each day is my goal and “the kids” are a huge help in achieving this goal. Walking at first light invigorates me but there is something magical about watching the sun set on another day while walking with my honey at my side.
I walk everywhere. In private campground, in new neighborhood, down country roads. But my favorite place to walk in a national forest (major surprise, Right?). The sights I’ve seen and discoveries made have been incredible. Personally, I don’t think there is a bad national forest to walk in and have discovered the same holds true for national grasslands.
If you think walking might be something you’ll enjoy, here are some tips I’ve learned:
- Wear comfortable clothes that are appropriate to the season.
- Ditto on your shoes.
- Use a pedometer and forget the clock.
- Drink before, during, and after walking – cool, clear water is probably best unless If it’s a very hot day than treat yourself to a sports drink.
- Stand tall, hold tummy in, and walk with shoulders down (if shoulders come up, it’s a sign you should take a rest).Don’t walk the same route every time. Experience different routes with different sights and challenges to stay interested.
- Find a walking buddy. For me, Ralf is better than Maybe since he isn’t interested in chasing squirrels, rabbits, or birds. However, the pace Maybe sets does get my heart rate up.
- Check the “Hiking ” posted on the Campground’s description on U.S. National Forest Campground Guide website for any trails at the campground you want to enjoy.
