Hiking For the Older Generation

Today we have a guest post from Mary Tilken on tips for hiking  for the older generation.  Thanks Mary!

Hiking Tips For The Older Generation

Hiking is a super enjoyable activity that can be enjoyed by almost everyone. When a person hikes, he or she is able to commune with nature in a relaxing environment that can truly help clear the mind and balance the body. Not only that, but hiking is a great way to get the valuable exercise needed to stay in shape and can provide a variety of positive health benefits. If you love the feeling of enjoying a relaxing hike in the great outdoors but you feel as if you are too old to do so, remember, you are never too old to hike. Although certain special precautions may need to be taken, it is still possible to enjoy a refreshing hike even if you are an older person. If you want some tips on how you can hike safely, regardless of your age, here are some helpful tips for the older hiker.

1. Get In Shape

Before embarking on a hike full of rough terrain, you are first going to need to get your body in shape. Start slow by doing easy stretch exercises to get your body more limber. Or, try walking around the block to build leg muscle. By preparing before you take a serious hike, you can be certain your body will be able to handle any type of terrain you come across.

2. Get Good Shoes

While good hiking shoes are a necessity for hikers of all ages, they are especially important for the older hiker. Many older people have back pain or other pain issues and these problems will be made worse during a hike unless you are equipped with good hiking shoes.

3. Bring A Buddy

The woods can be an unpredictable place and if you want to ensure your safety during a hike, it is good to bring along a hiking buddy. Accidents can and do occur and it could be catastrophic if you are hiking alone when an accident occurs. There is safety in numbers so be sure to bring a friend to help out in case injury occurs. Plus, it's fun to have someone to talk to and share nature experiences with so bringing a buddy on a hiking adventure is just an all around good thing.

4. Take It Easy

If you are an older hiker who does not have a lot of hiking experience, it is best to tackle easy hiking spots before attempting more advanced one. Once you can work yourself up to feeling confident enough to take on rougher terrain, your body will definitely let you know it's okay.

5. Talk To Doctor

As with any exercise regime, it is best to consult with your doctor. Your doctor can run tests on your body function so to be sure that hiking will not cause your heart or other body parts any unneeded troubles.

Hiking is a fun and enjoyable outdoor activity that can provide hours of good times. If you are an older person who has been considering taking up hiking yourself, following the above hiking tips for older individuals will be sure to provide that your hike is safe and enjoyable.

Marta Tilken writes about fitness, the great outdoors and saving money at http://homeequityloan.net.

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