MamasHealth.com Home Hiking Information Benefits of Hiking Avoid Hiking Injuries Hiking Gear Guide Planning a Hike Links Email Mama Orange seared tofu Nutrition for Athletes Inexpensive Treadmills Fitness Accessories	If you want to take a hike, planning will help ensure your safety and wellbeing. Tips on Planning a Hike Decide with whom you want to hike. Decide on the general location of your hike. (coastal, mountain, flats) Decide on what activities you want to do. Consider the altitude If you haven't been hiking in a while, hike at a lower altitude. The lower altitude will give your body a chance to adjust to altitude. During the winter months, higher altitudes may have snow. Look at your route options. Route options should include: terrain trail conditions water sources length of the route attractions and activities distance from home location of established camp sites the weather and restrictions, rules, and permits needed to hike at that site estimation of how long it will take to complete the hike Budget your time. If you plan on taking a day hike, make sure you can finish the hike before sundown. Learn the rules of hiking. Leave a copy of your hike route with a contact person. Pack a light backpack of goodies. Be aware of thigh chafing. If you have problems with thigh chafing, try wearing Lycra shorts which are tight around the thigh and will help prevent chafing. Wear proper clothes.	Featured Book Advertise on MamasHealth.com Sign up for our Email Newsletter For Email Marketing you can trust
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