Hiking Tips for the New Hiker
A great way to enjoy the beauty of nature is to go hiking. To hike safely you need to be prepared. To help better prepare you for your hike I have interviewed Elaine Gjonovich who is the owner of Outdoor Fitness Adventure Club.
Tell me a little bit about yourself?
"I am owner of outdoor fitness adventure club, started in 2002 while recovering from a heart procedure. My friends took me hiking to rehabilitate and I began to realize that something very magical occurs while hiking in the wilderness. Friends bond easier, the desire to trek further distance increases, the ability to sustain your heart rate increases and the joy and quality of life renews -- of course health returns as one increase cardiac output, which increases oxygenation to the body and vital organs. I have four children and four grand children. Lived in San Clemente for 30 years."
What types of things should a hiker take with them when they go hiking?
"Number 1 -- Water, and more water. Sunscreen, energy snacks such as fruit, hard cheeses, a PBJ sandwich, etc. First aid kit containing band-aids, aspirin, anti-bacterial cream, mole skin, tweezers, mirror for signaling, whistle, pepper spray, compass, map and space blanket."
What type of clothing should a hiker wear?
"UPF protection, anti-microbial long sleeve shirts with breath ability, UPF sun protection hat, (straw hat is NOT UPF protection), UPF protection, and pants, mid lengths or shorts made specifically for hiking (pockets, cool wicking, comfortable)."
How do you determine what type of hike is right for you?
"The hikes length, elevation and difficulty level. Typically a rigorous hike (8 - 22 miles) should only be attempted by one that has the ability to hike a 15-minute mile without compromising ones health."
What can a hiker do if they get lost?
"To AVOID a dangerous situation -- NEVER hike alone, always carry a map and a compass. You have better chances of survival when taking precautions. But if you do get lost -- stay on a trail; never detour from the designated trail. Take plenty of rest stops, (you don't know how long you will be out there), eat along the way, stay hydrated, use your reflector devise (mirror) to attract attention, and blow your whistle often -- if it gets to be dark use your space blanket to stay warm, rest and rest until daylight."
How do you avoid a dangerous animal such as a mountain lion?
"Make yourself BIG by lifting your arms upward holding your trekking poles or a stick, if confronting an animal NEVER run from them, walk backward slowly until you are out of danger. Do not crouch down, a mountain lion will typically not attack a human standing on two feet, they are prone to attack their prey (a four footed animal), when crouching they may mistake you for another animal."
What last advice would you like to leave for someone who is interested in hiking?
"Never hike alone, unless it is a very populated trail with public access. It is best to join a group of experienced hikers, wear the proper apparel and shoes (boots) -- your feet will thank you for it. Respect the wilderness, stay on the trail, do not detour from your trip, take a map, bring essentials, and enjoy our God given creation!"
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