How to prepare for a hike physically? 7 steps will help you

Hiking is one of the favorite sports activities for many travelers for various reasons. On the one hand, it is easy to perform although it gives the possibility to be done at different levels of difficulty. It is an activity that can be done accompanied, allows you to enjoy the outdoors and, above all, gives us the option of knowing at each exit a new natural route. In this article, we will present how to prepare for a hike physically.

How to prepare for a hike physically?

To get prepared, you must follow the steps described below.

1. Preparation of the route

Although it seems very obvious, the most important thing before making a hiking route is to learn very well the conditions of the route. We must know very well where the route starts and ends, how many kilometers we will travel and how much time it takes, how difficult the route is and if it is in good condition throughout its route. It is not advisable to undertake a route without having all these factors clear.

2. Weather information

In addition to knowing the general conditions of the territory through which we are going to travel, it is very important to know if time will be on our side. There are weather conditions that prevent hiking and others that, although they hinder it, will be salvageable if we take the appropriate measures in terms of equipment. Let’s make sure that the march will not be impeded by the lack of visibility caused by dense fog or torrential rain, so we must be careful with the high temperatures.

3. Footwear and clothing for hiking

It is not worth any footwear for trekking. And we should not just avoid heels or shoes by pure logic, also the thin-soled shoes will be very uncomfortable. The ideal is to have a shoe suitable for mountain, which has a thick sole, hold the ankle and make it waterproof. Ankle sprains and slips are the most common accidents when hiking. Equally the clothes must be adequate, we must wear comfortable clothes that allow movement well and be prepared with something of shelter in case we are surprised by a change of time. You can read here other tips for the health of the traveler’s feet.

4. Map and indications

Although we have been informed of how the route is previously, as we saw in point one, it is also recommended to take a map with which to guide us. The mobile phone and GPS can fulfill the function, but be careful in trusting an electronic device because we run the risk of running out of battery. The paper never fails us. It can also help us to look at the directions of the road and even take pictures for later.

5. Trekking cane

Although many believe that the trekking stick is a necessary complement when hiking, in fact it is almost essential. The cane helps maintain balance and reduces fatigue in knees and ankles. In addition, the risk of sprains is reduced and it will serve us, of course, to dissipate the weeds in less well-kept areas.

6. Feeding and hydration during hiking

Dehydration produces disorientation, in addition to jerks, fainting, fainting and in extreme cases to death. For any trip, regardless of its duration or difficulty, we must carry at least one and a half liter of water or isotonic drinks. It is recommended to drink in small doses but continued. You should never wait until you are thirsty. As for food, it is recommended that we eat something light during the march, in addition to having consumed foods rich in sugars and energy before leaving. You do not have to make big stops during the route, but the stops of about ten minutes are more indicated. It is recommended to bring nuts, energy barrels, small sandwiches, fruit or cookies.

7. Care of the environment

And last but not least, we must not forget that the natural environment belongs to everyone. That is why this last advice is to remember that when we practice hiking we must be respectful with the environment: do not light fires, leave no residue and be careful with the flora and fauna of the place.