Great Outdoors Month: Hiking for Beginners 101

In 2004, in order for Americans to learn an appreciation of their country, and what it has to offer, signed an initiative making June 2004 the first Great Outdoors Month. He also did this to help Americans lead more active lifestyles, to promote fitness, and to help combat obesity.

On March 26, 2009 Theodore R. Kulongoski, Governor of the State of Oregon, signed a proclamation declaring June 2009 to be Great Outdoors Month. Many other governors of different states have done the same thing.

On January 15, 2009, a consortium of federal agencies and nonprofit organizations have declared June 13, 2009 to be Great Outdoors Day.

If you take the time to think about it, what better month than June, to start learning about our great outdoors? And, what better thing to start during this month, than to start hiking. If you can walk you can certainly hike, and it is definitely much more enjoyable than hitting the treadmill for an hour or so.

Beginning hiking has many benefits. Of course the greatest of these is probably improved health and fitness; but when you look at the big picture, it is also the chance to enjoy the great outdoors, and it doesn't cost any money after the purchase of necessities.

If you are thinking of hiking, or have already determined to start, this short lesson on Hiking for Beginners 101 will get you started right, and hopefully get you started on a lifetime of enjoying the great outdoors.

Equipment -

Many people debate over which is better to have when hiking; boots or good walking shoes. My thinking is, whatever you are most comfortable with. My rule of thumb is; when I am hiking trails I will usually wear walking shoes. When I am hiking up and down a mountain I will wear boots. It is more support for my ankles. No matter if you decide to go with boots or shoes, make sure the soles are non-slip. Also, wear good thick socks to help cushion your feet.

Taking a backpack with you that has a few important essentials is also a good idea. Even if I am going to be hiking for just a couple of hours, it goes with me. In my back-pack I have, my cell phone, a small first-aid kit, a compass (just in case I get lost), bottles of water (the amount depending on how long I am going to be gone), snacks, sunscreen, flashlight and a couple of glow sticks (just in case I get lost) and a whistle to alert others if it is a necessity. These things stay in my pack, and the only thing I take out is my cell phone when I get home.

1. Have a plan - know where you are going, and let others know
2. Start small - when first beginning to hike, start with short hikes
3. Start during nice weather - you will enjoy it more
4. Use good posture - it is less stressful on the back
5. Stay on the trail - you won't get lost

When hiking make sure that you drink plenty of water, and if you need energy, eat a snack. Also, make sure that you rest when your body is tired. Before you know it you'll look forward to your next hike, and will enjoy the great outdoors as much as I do.

Until you become familiar with hiking and reading a compass, it is best that you stay on the trails; you won't get lost.It is important that you maintain a good posture when hiking. Keep up the same posture that you would have if you were walking on the street, with head up and shoulders back and relaxed. It helps to keep muscle strain down.Summer is the best time to start hiking, because that is usually when the weather is the nicest. Since June is Great Outdoors Month, what better time to start? After you get more experienced in your hiking, you might find that inclement weather offers a pleasant challenge.Go on short hikes at first. Even one mile of up and down trail is much harder than one might think. It's best to start small, and then go farther as your endurance builds.Know where you are going to be going before you leave home. That way you can always let someone know where you will be. This is especially important if you are going to be hiking alone. Even if you have a cell phone with you, you might not be able to have reception. This happens sometimes when you are in the mountains.Thankfully, hiking is one sport or recreation that doesn't need much equipment, but there are some things though not necessary, are a good idea to have with you.

Resources:

http://www.funoutdoors.com/files/OregonProc2009.pdf

http://www.funoutdoors.com